The Grip

Making sure you are holding the paddle with the correct grip is an essential component of all pickleball shots. The grip is more important than most players realize because it influences the angle of your paddle face which will then influence your swing path. If your paddle is too open then you may pop up the ball or hit it too long. If the paddle face is too closed then you may hit the ball into the bottom of the net. 

A majority of players start with and hit most, if not all, of their shots using what is commonly referred to as the "continental" grip. If you hold your paddle directly in front of you with the edge guard facing you, you will see that there are 8 bevels on the handle. Bevel 1 is the one facing you. For a "continental" grip, the right knuckle (if you are right handed) should be on bevel 2. Another popular grip is the "eastern" grip which is used mostly to hit forehand drives. For an "eastern" grip, the right knuckle (if you are right handled) should be on bevel 3. 

Note: Using an incorrect grip will hamper stroke improvement. 

Ready Position

The ready position is the position a player must take on the court in preparation of their next shot. This position allows you to move in any direction on the court in a quick and efficient manner. To get into the ready position:

• Stand with your knees and waist slightly bent

• Your feet should be slightly wider than shoulder width

• You should always stand on the balls of your feet

• The paddle should be held directly in front of you with your elbow bent and positioned between 10-12 o'clock (if you are right handed). 

• Focus your head and eyes on the ball and the position of the paddle face of the player hitting the ball. 

Basic Footwork

Proper footwork will help you get to the ball quickly and make your court movement more efficient. 

Side to Side Shuffle - Starting in the ready positive (see above), slide from side to side by quickly shuffling your feet. As you shuffle, stay low with the paddle back and ready to hit the ball. 

Split Step - Starting in the ready position (see above), run up and do a jump stop with both feet making contact with the ground at the same time. As you complete the split step, make sure you are in the ready position prepared to hit the ball. 

Step into the Shot - When hitting a forehand or backhand drive and drop shots, it's important to step into your shot in order to get the distance and power necessary to get the ball beyond the net and deep into the opponent's court. Stepping into the shot also allows you to make contact with the ball out in front for maximum control and consistency.