Pickleball Tips & Strategies

1. Master the Basic Rules

Before diving into advanced strategies, make sure you understand the fundamental rules of pickleball:

• Serves must be made underhand and diagonally to the opponent's service court
• The two-bounce rule: the ball must bounce once on each side before players can volley
• The non-volley zone (kitchen) rule: no volleying within 7 feet of the net
• Games are typically played to 11 points (win by 2)
• Points are only scored by the serving team

2. Develop a Proper Grip

The continental grip (like shaking hands with the paddle) is most versatile for pickleball. It allows for greater control and easier transitions between forehand and backhand shots without adjusting your grip.

3. Practice Your Ready Position

Stand with knees slightly bent, weight on the balls of your feet, paddle up and in front of you. This athletic stance allows for quick movements in any direction and prepares you to react to incoming shots.

4. Start with Controlled Shots

Focus on getting the ball over the net consistently before trying to hit winners. Develop touch and control first, then gradually add power and placement to your shots.

The Dink Shot

A soft shot hit from the non-volley zone that drops just over the net. Master this shot for kitchen battles.

• Keep your paddle face open (slightly tilted upward)
• Use mostly wrist and minimal arm movement
• Aim to make the ball barely clear the net
• Focus on touch rather than power

The Third Shot Drop

Perhaps the most critical shot in pickleball, this allows the serving team to approach the net.

• Hit the ball with underspin to help it drop quickly after clearing the net
• Aim to land the ball in the non-volley zone
• Practice varying the pace and depth
• Consider it a strategic shot rather than an offensive one

Volley Techniques

Volleys are shots hit before the ball bounces and are usually played near the non-volley zone line.

• Keep your paddle up and in front of you
• Use a "block" motion rather than a swing
• Let the ball's momentum do most of the work
• Focus on placement rather than power

Get to the Net (Kitchen Line)

In pickleball, controlling the non-volley zone line gives you a significant advantage. Most points are won by the team at the kitchen line.

• After serving, work to move forward as quickly as the two-bounce rule allows
• Use the third shot drop to approach safely
• When receiving, move to the kitchen line immediately after your return bounce

Play the Percentages

Smart pickleball is about reducing errors and forcing your opponents into difficult shots.

• Aim for the middle between two opponents to create confusion
• Target your opponent's weaker side (often the backhand)
• Keep the ball low when hitting to opponents at the net
• Hit deep when opponents are at the baseline

Communication with Partners

In doubles play, clear communication is essential for covering the court effectively.

• Call "mine" or "yours" for balls in the middle
• Discuss strategy between points
• Develop signals for special plays or positioning
• Provide encouragement and constructive feedback

Choosing the Right Paddle

Your paddle is your most important piece of equipment in pickleball.

• Weight: Lighter paddles (7-8.5 oz) offer more control and less fatigue, while heavier paddles (8.5-9.5 oz) provide more power
• Grip Size: Should allow for a small gap between your fingertips and palm when holding properly
• Surface Material: Graphite faces offer control, composite faces provide power
• Core: Polymer cores offer the best balance of power and control

Footwear Matters

Proper court shoes can prevent injuries and improve your mobility.

• Choose shoes designed for court sports (tennis, volleyball, or specific pickleball shoes)
• Look for non-marking soles with good lateral support
• Ensure proper fit with space for toes to prevent blisters
• Replace shoes when tread wears down to maintain traction

1. Hitting Too Hard

Many beginners try to overpower their opponents. Pickleball rewards placement and strategy over raw power. Focus on control and placement rather than hitting with maximum force.

2. Staying Back at the Baseline

Failing to move up to the kitchen line puts you at a disadvantage. Work on your approach shots and get comfortable playing at the net as quickly as possible.

3. Improper Kitchen Line Management

Stepping into the kitchen to hit volleys is a common fault. Practice awareness of where your feet are, and avoid momentum carrying you into the non-volley zone after hitting.

4. Poor Ready Position

Lowering your paddle between shots or standing flat-footed slows your reaction time. Stay in athletic position with your paddle up and ready at all times.