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Uncovered: Train like Ben Johns
Breaking down the #1 ranked player's training routine
Erik Korem
June 07, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes
In some very unsurprising news, Ben Johns took home the singles and mixed doubles titles at the PPA Texas Open this past weekend.
The event was aired nationally on FOX, relegating the usual NASCAR coverage to FS1. The spotlight is continuing to shine brighter on Pickleball, and we’re here for it!
As the #1 ranked male player, we see Ben’s crazy highlights, trophies, & sponsorship deals. But, what we don’t see is the disciplined work that allows him to remain at the pinnacle of the sport.
While Ben’s backhand roll shot might just be a god-given talent, you can copy most of his formula for success.
Ben’s Pre Match Preparation
Increase protein intake the night before a match
Get some sugar and carbs on match days
Dynamic warmup with 4 parts (mobility, activation, dynamic flexibility, and heart rate elevation)
Stay hydrated all week and drink water with electrolytes on match days
Ben’s Post Match Recovery
Cooldown with stretching
Focus on quads, hips, and back
Massage gun therapy
Foam rolling
Ben’s Off Court Training
Dynamic strength & mobility training 5x a week
Focus on quads, hips, and back
If you have the AIM7 app, Ben’s training regimen probably sounds extremely familiar!
Not that Ben needs any more advantages, but we think there’s still room for improvement - he could use different breathwork techniques to quickly boost his energy or increase his focus when he needs it.
But hey, we’re not Ben’s coach. We’re your coach! 🫵
For personalized Pickleball training, Download the AIM7 app for free!
Did You Know? The fastest smash shots on the pro tour can reach speeds up to 70mph!!
Terrifying.
The much more common speed up volley we hit often clocks in around 25-35mph. With 7 feet of kitchen on each side of the net, this means a speed up volley is getting to you in about 0.3 seconds - literally the blink of an eye.
Why should you care?
Reaction time is critical, and you can improve it.
Anticipation is essential, so study your opponents’ tendencies
Dial in your focus when the ball is at net - apparently blinking could cost you!
One more thing you can do is figure out which eye is dominant. This will help you understand your blind spots! Zane Navratil can walk you through the dominant eye test.
Feeling Nervous on the Court?
Good! Dr. Auerbach says that’s essential.. it means you care. Now here’s how you can get comfortable.
1. Reframe your nerves as excitement, and use that excitement as fuel.
2. Use breathing techniques to regulate your nervous system. During game breaks, focus on exhaling for twice as long as your inhale.
3. Keep a balanced perspective in critical moments. Don’t forget to have fun!
4. Simulate pressure scenarios at game speed during your practice.
If you want to learn more, listen in to this conversation between Dr. Auerbach and AIM7 founder, Dr. Erik Korem. It’s absolute gold.
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