If you’ve ever watched a pickleball match and seen a player explode into action by darting around the kitchen to put away a shot, you’ve probably witnessed a Bert. This crowd-pleasing move is one of the most exciting and arguably one of the most strategic techniques in modern pickleball.
The Bert is all about surprise, court awareness, and precision. When performed correctly, it can flip a rally in your favor and instantly apply pressure on your opponents.
At HomeForPickleball, our mission is to help players at every level grow their game with clear, practical guides. Remember, though no strategy improves your game without consistent drilling. Even if you don’t have a partner, solo drills and basic training equipment can help you sharpen the skills needed to pull off advanced moves like the Bert.
What Is a Bert in Pickleball?
A Bert is similar to the popular Erne shot with one key twist. Instead of taking the shot from your own sideline, you move around the kitchen onto your partner’s side of the court to intercept the ball.
You remain outside the non-volley zone (NVZ) as you attack, often catching opponents off guard. The unexpected angle, combined with the speed of the movement, makes the Bert an incredibly effective weapon at higher levels of play.
How to Master the Bert Technique
Perfecting the Bert requires sharp footwork, quick decision-making, and excellent communication with your partner. Here’s how to build the foundation:
1. Start With Movement Basics
Practice quick lateral steps along the kitchen line. Train your body to move fast without sacrificing balance or control.
2. Stay Visually Locked In
Your eyes should track both your opponents and your partner. Reading the play early is the difference between a winning Bert and being caught out of position.
3. Integrate It Into Real Gameplay
Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Look for cross-court dinks that sit up just enough for you to attack. As your confidence grows, the timing will feel more natural.
4. Relax Your Grip
A looser grip allows smoother transitions between forehand and backhand shots and is crucial when you’re attacking at full speed.
5. Train With Purpose
Set aside dedicated time in each practice session to work solely on Bert footwork and shot execution. Repetition builds instinct.
Step-by-Step Guide to Executing the Bert
To execute a successful Bert shot in pickleball here are the key things that you need to keep in mind:
- Scout Your Position: Start near the NVZ line on your partner’s side.
- Read the Opponent: Look for a high or floaty cross-court dink.
- Move Fast: Sprint or shuffle around the kitchen, staying outside the NVZ.
- Time the Ball: Meet it immediately after it bounces on your side.
- Strike With Intention: Aim for a sharp, aggressive angle to surprise your opponents.
- Recover Quickly: Slide back into your defensive position and prepare for the next exchange.
Pro Tips:
- Footwork Matters: Light, agile steps make the Bert possible.
- Timing Is Everything: The moment you identify a Bert opportunity, commit fully.
Benefits of Adding the Bert to Your Game
The Bert is a high-value move with real strategic advantages and also one of the most stylish shots in pickleball.
1. Outsmart Opponents
The Bert creates angles they don’t expect, often resulting in instant winners.
2. Expand Your Court Coverage
By using your partner’s side intelligently, you reach shots that would typically be unreturnable.
3. Improve Your Agility
Practicing the Bert strengthens reaction time, footwork, and overall court movement.
4. Increase Offensive Pressure
You gain more chances to attack early in the rally, controlling pace and tempo.
5. Boost Your Game IQ
Reading the setup for a Bert forces deeper tactical awareness and better partner communication.
6. Keep Your Opponents Guessing
When mixed wisely into your strategy, the Bert makes your playstyle unpredictable and dangerous
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bert legal in pickleball?
Yes, the Bert is completely legal as long as you stay outside the non-volley zone (kitchen) when making contact with the ball. You are allowed to move around the kitchen onto your partner’s side of the court, but you cannot step into the NVZ or touch the kitchen line during the shot. As long as your feet stay clear, the Bert is a perfectly valid, and highly effective advanced technique.
What’s the difference between a Bert and an Erne?
Both shots involve attacking from outside the kitchen, but the Erne is executed from your own sideline, while the Bert requires you to move around the kitchen and attack from your partner’s sideline. The Bert is more advanced because it demands quicker movement, better timing, and strong partner communication.
When should I attempt a Bert in a match?
The best time to go for a Bert is when your opponent sends a high or attackable cross-court dink, especially one that floats up or travels close to your partner’s sideline. This gives you time to explode around the kitchen and hit the ball at an unexpected angle. Avoid forcing the move pick moments where the setup naturally presents itself so you stay balanced and avoid leaving your side of the court exposed.
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