Play Like Ben and Collin
How the Johns Brothers Get Tournament Ready
Becoming one of the most decorated men’s doubles teams in pickleball history doesn’t happen by chance. Ben and Collin Johns have honed every aspect of their game—from their diets to their training regimens and tournament preparation.As Collin humorously puts it, step 1 is to “Pick a good partner. I did!” Of course, it doesn’t hurt when your brother is one of the sport’s all-time greats.
But what about those of us who aren’t blessed with sibling genetics of that caliber?
Choose the Right Partner
Picking the right partner is a critical step in being tournament ready. Partnering with someone slightly better than you can elevate your game and provide a more rewarding tournament experience. Opponents often target the weaker player, and if your partner is far more advanced, they might not see much action during the match. So, choose a partner whose skill level complements yours.
Stay Fueled and Hydrated
Tournament days can be long and grueling, often with hours between matches. To keep your energy up, pack enough food and water to stay fueled and hydrated throughout the day. Your first match might be in the morning, with your next one not until the evening. Sticking to your stretching and warm-up routine between games is essential, and don’t underestimate the importance of having a full stomach—it’s hard to win when you’re running on empty.
Want to Play Like Ben and Collin?
Watch the full breakdown of Ben and Collin sharing their wisdom on how to prepare like a champion!
See how Pickleball World #1 Ben Johns gets his paddle tournament ready.