(Editor’s Note: I just reread this post I wrote years ago and I have to say the instruction at the top levels has improved dramatically. One of the reasons is I have taught or influenced many of the coaches out there. I have collaborated with top pros’ coaching teams at times also behind the scenes.)
So I got this asked of me awhile ago, “What kind of mistakes do you see top racquetball players making?
1. Poor bio-mechanical execution of movement and stroke mechanics. In our sport leading pros are teaching incorrect footwork, horrible stroke mechanics and inviting overuse injuries. Instructors with poor mechanics is bad enough worse, they are writing articles and doing videos about it. They should be absorbing the study of bio-mechanics and working on latest movement techniques so players can learn to play efficiently with less injury.
2. Poor diet–athletes are not eating right and do not understand why they have to watch their diet. I witness issues like fatigue, dehydration, and muscle cramps almost every tournament.
3. No performance routine at all. Athletes sort of bounce around from event to event. I heard a cycling expert call these athletes “road bums” who just go from one race to the next. This is what happens in racquetball. Players get caught in a vicious cycle of no money so I have to play more small tournaments between the big tournaments. The funding of these poor athletes who go to these tournaments encourages low prize money and over-use injuries because of #4 and lack of prize money.
Number 4- improper coaching. We have untrained coaches who were ex-players at open level or lower out there teaching and not learning. Many times they also have a belief that they do not need training. They know everything. Too bad the athletes have no idea how poor their coach is. Think about this; how would you know your coach is under-qualified unless you played for a qualified coach?
Number 5- and maybe this should be number one.
Poor strategic planning. I know many of the players and have known them since they were juniors. They reach pro level and the pro opponent is playing their strength, not their weakness. Or the pro has poor positioning, usually too far forward in center court or receiving serve.
These are a few problems or mistakes top players have as I see it. I probably left some out so feel free to add on.