Stop Overhitting: How to Control Adrenaline and Master Shot Intensity

Have you ever hit an unforced error because you blasted the ball too hard? In the heat of a match, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and overhit, even when you didn't intend to. Finishing shots, especially, can trigger a spike in adrenaline that completely changes your feel for the ball.

This is a common experience. Your adrenaline recalibrates your baseline "feel," causing the output of your shots to feel completely different from your intended input. For example, if you're in a tight match and your opponent hits a soft, short ball, your natural instinct is to attack it with 100% intensity. But with elevated adrenaline, that 100% becomes 120%, pushing you into a "red zone" where your margin for error is low and the outcome is unpredictable.

So, how can you counteract this and get your calibration back to normal?

It’s a simple trick: consciously adjust your intensity level.

For Attack Opportunities: When you get a short ball and have a chance to attack, think "60/80" (60-80% power) before you hit the ball. Because of your elevated adrenaline, that 60-80% will automatically translate to the perfect amount of controlled power you need to finish the point without overhitting.

For Defensive Situations: What about when your opponent is putting you under pressure? Don't try to hit the ball back even harder. Instead, think "40/60" (40-60% power) and prioritize height and depth. This will allow you to absorb their pace, neutralize the point, and give you time to set up for your next shot. I can’t tell you how many times I've seen players, including myself, miss a simple defensive shot because they tried to overpower an aggressive opponent.

By reading the situation and the incoming ball, you can make a conscious decision about your intensity level before you even hit your shot. This simple adjustment will help you make fewer unforced errors and maintain control throughout your matches.

Enjoy trying it out!