Smart Pickleball: The Pickleball Guru's Guide

by Prem Carnot, Wendy Garrido

Just because you know the rules and have had a blast playing pickleball since the day you learned, doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re playing as well as you could be... Players of every age and ability can learn to play better and win more when they start to apply the principles of Smart Pickleball™. In this book, Prem Carnot, The Pickleball Guru, takes you along on an entertaining journey full of colorful characters and astonishingly familiar scenarios as he teaches one of his highly-renowned, frequently sold-out “Pickleball Guru Academy” clinics and a number of private lessons. With diagrams, drills, and a captivating allegorical style The Pickleball Guru uses case studies and personal examples to teach you the difference between just “getting the ball over the net” and playing Smart Pickleball™. This book will keep you turning the pages and have you raring to get back out on the courts to practice what you learn the minute you close the cover.

Genres: Nonfiction

166 pages, Paperback

First published November 9, 2014

Reviews

[Karen & Gerard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very helpful book for improving your Pickleball game. It contains instructions for executing different shots, drills to practice to improve, and strategies to implement in your game. All this in a very conversational writing style where he basically takes the reader into one of his clinics and even shares tips from some of his private lessons. This book is excellent and was not at all boring to me. He has a good sense of humor as well that makes for a very enjoyable read. I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to learn to play Pickleball well and who is willing to practice.

Teaser from page 22: Smart PickleballTM is about strategically setting yourself up to win a point by biding your time, using your energy efficiently, playing the percentages and anticipating several shots ahead. (Karen's review)

[Roger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great little book.

This is a short but well-sequenced book based on 3 successive days at a clinic without actual court time. I didn't think I'd learn as much as I think I did.
Of course, it is based on the author’s style and tendencies. I think these would be helpful for most pickleballers, even stronger players.
1. I'm going to reread it.
2. I'm going to use it to create personalized tutorials for me and my partner.
3. I'm giving a copy to my partner.
4. Hopefully, we’ll sit around to discuss and remind each other of skills we need to work on.

I believe more diagrams would help. But, actually, attending the clinic just might be best.

For an old 75-year-old, it is great.

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining, not sure yet if it will help my game. Need to try practicing some of the drills. Not for the absolute beginner as it doesn't cover game basics and scorekeeping. Author writes as if he's conducting a clinic. He "answers" questions that only people who have played at least a little would ask. Addresses strategy to play Smart Pickleball.

[bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent “how to” for pickleball.

Great for coaches, but excellent for reviewing how to play smart for all levels of player. Once I have coached I urge beginners to buy this book and refer to it often as reminders for improvement.

[Mark R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Pickleball advice

This book is well-written and super informative. The author shores tips that you don’t get elsewhere and does so in a friendly, instructive manner. I’m looking forward to putting his advice to work in drills and games.

[Randi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read for beginners!!

Good stuff, for all levels of players. Good drills and also dealing with the mental game of pickleball. A must read!!

[Ajay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great overview of the game with tips on drills, strategy, and positioning.

[David Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

Offers steps for improving your
fundamental pickle ball skills.

The book is well worth the purchase price. Buy the book.

[Erik · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this . It's a "how to" book, offering simple and understandable tips and drills for improving your pickleball game. I'll be returning to its pages frequently.