How to Serve in Pickleball: A Detailed Breakdown

In pickleball, the serve sets the tone for the rest of the game. A well-executed serve can give you a significant advantage right from the start. This blog post will provide a detailed breakdown of how to serve in pickleball.

The Stance

Begin by positioning yourself behind the baseline of the court. Your feet should be parallel to the baseline, with your weight distributed evenly between them. Your body should face the net, with your shoulders square to it.

The Grip

The way you hold your paddle significantly influences the power and accuracy of your serve. Hold the paddle with a relaxed grip, similar to shaking hands with someone. Your fingers should wrap around the handle, with the thumb resting against the back of the paddle.

The Swing

Unlike tennis, where overhand serves are commonplace, pickleball rules require you to serve underhand. The paddle must move in an upward arc, with the paddle face open. The point of contact should be below your waist level, and the paddle head must be below your wrist when striking the ball.

The Contact

When striking the ball, aim to hit it with the center of the paddle. This area, known as the sweet spot, provides the most control and power. Try to hit the ball with a smooth, fluid motion, rather than a hard smack. The goal is to serve the ball deep into your opponent’s court, making it difficult for them to return.

The Target

You must serve diagonally, targeting the service court opposite to you. The ball must clear the net and the non-volley zone (also known as the kitchen) and land within the boundaries of the service court. A serve that lands in the non-volley zone or out of bounds is considered a fault.

Practice Makes Perfect

Like any other skill, mastering the serve in pickleball requires practice. Spend time working on your stance, grip, swing, and contact. Experiment with different styles and see what works best for you. Come practice your skills at Highlands Sports Complex– we welcome everyone, from beginners to experienced players, to enjoy this exciting sport.