I’m hovering around a 3.0 in pickleball and debating whether to play with higher skilled players. Reddit users offer advice on navigating this dilemma.
Summary
- Playing with better players can improve your skills faster
- Moving up a skill level may be challenging but rewarding
- Self-regulating games helps everyone enjoy the play
- Competition helps you grow and learn
Playing Up
Many users suggest moving up a skill level to play with better players. They believe that facing tougher competition can lead to faster improvement. One user advises, “Play 3+. Change courts a lot to spread the ‘disruption’ and get experience from a variety of players.”
Stuck in Limbo
Some users shared their experiences of feeling stuck between skill levels. They mentioned that while initially challenging, moving up eventually led to improvement and competitiveness. One user noted, “If you’re outgrown the beginners, move over and stick with it knowing it might suck for a bit!!”
Learning and Growing
Playing with advanced players can be intimidating but rewarding, as it pushes you to work harder and learn faster. One user mentioned, “I sucked, but it forced you to work harder.”