Put it into practice: Routines and condition games with Paul Carter

While playing competitive matches is important to improve your game, if you truly want to improve your skills in specific areas then setting up focused practices is the best way to really hone in on individual aspects of your play, allowing you to work in a ‘safe’ environment without pressure.

Paul talks a lot in this series of the importance of making your practices purposeful and relevant, as opposed to just going through the motions. A good way to do this is to include physical targets on the court, and Paul also discusses this at length.

Another aspect that’s considered in this series is looking at these ideas from a coaches perspective – teaching points, timings/durations, and other important issues you need to be looking at when taking things from an instructors point of view.

We’ve linked below 2 sessions incorporating these routines and conditioned games, giving you a structured on-court workout where you can take Paul’s technical hints and tips onto the court with you, and take the time to really experiment with some new ideas. As Carts often says himself – “If you always do what you always did, you’ll always get what you’ve always got!”.

Put it into practice

Pairs routine session

This pairs based session takes you through Paul’s recommended routines, focusing on 2 shot drop/drive; straight drive, boast/drop option; and boast, cross court drive, straight volley deep. Focus on the technique points emphasised by Paul in his videos, and use these routines to really experiment and practice new ideas.

Pairs conditioned game session

This pairs conditioned game session features Paul’s favourite choices, including the shoe target game, winner plays straight only, and Egyptian ¾ court. Paul’s playlist videos highlight the rules and points of emphasis.

Want to add a physical edge?

If you’re starting to incorporate some of these structured routines and game practices into your training, then doing the same with your fitness will serve as a great adjunct – check out this excellent General Conditioning Session as a starting point.

Related content

Inside the mind of Malcolm Willstrop

The whole interview with Malcolm is fascinating but it’s worth paying close attention to the way that sessions are constructed at Pontefract as well as the importance of discipline.

Technical vs outcome driven sessions

Check out this blog from Peter Nicol that examines the difference between technical and outcome driven sessions.

Keeping a training diary

Have a read of this blog and understand the benefits of keeping a training diary.

Let us know how you get on with the sessions, we’d love to hear your feedback!