When and Why Should You Take a Timeout?


Do you play pickleball tournaments?

If you do, you know that you are allotted a certain number of timeouts during a game.

Do you ever take a timeout?

Some players never do. They often say they aren't tired or they don't need a drink.

What are the reasons to take a timeout?

Here are the most common reasons to take a timeout:

1. To stop your opponent's momentum - You very well may not be tired or thirsty, but the top reason to take a timeout has more to do with your opponents than you. Pickleball is a game of runs. If your opponents mount a run of several points in a row, taking a timeout can stop their run.  It may break their momentum.  That is the best and most common reason to take a timeout. And it works.  In fact, it works in many sports, but it often works in pickleball.

2.  To regroup mentally - Sometimes, you need a few minutes to regain your composure.  For example, if an opponent calls a ball out that you're certain was in, you may "lose it" and then lose the next point also. In order to regroup your mind and get past the bad call, you are better off to take a timeout than to lose the next point or two out of frustration. 

3.  To regroup physically - Occasionally, during a game, you may have had several extended rallys during which you had to retreat to the baseline to return a lob only to have to then hustle back to the kitchen for a short drop shot from your opponent. Too many of those in succession may have you overly tired and thirsty.  You should take a timeout, have some fluids, and let you muscles have a short break.  Other times, you may need a snack or some electrolytes. Lesser experienced tournament players are sometimes unprepared for the excess calorie burn and fluid loss of tournament play and may need a protein bar or some Gatorade type drink. 

4.  To change or correct your strategy - Sometimes, your game plan isn't working. Then, you need a timeout to discuss with your partner how to change your strategy. Or you may need to correct some mistakes. For example, maybe your opponents have exploited you and your partner down the middle. You may need a timeout to correct how you handle those middle shots. 

5.  To regain motivation - Sometimes you need a timeout just to remind yourself and your partner of why you're playing in the first place and to remind each other that you are plenty skilled enough to win.  Then, reevaluate how many stops you need or how many points you need. Looking at the overall goal objectively and breaking it down into the actual steps needed to reach it often makes it seem much more achievable.


There are other reasons you might want to take a timeout during a pickleball match, but those are the most common ones. 

Remember, taking a timeout may be the most important decision you make in a match. 

Don't be afraid to use a timeout.  It can be the difference between winning and losing.

Good luck!


Ben Holt
​CEO, Pickleball Living