5 Simple Pickleball Shots Every Player Needs to Learn
Pickleball is the latest trend in terms of sports. While the sport has been around for over 50 years, it’s gotten popular through office outings, bachelorette parties, TikTok, and athleisure brands catering to pickleball players. It’s fun for everyone no matter if you’re a beginner or pro. If you’re new to the sport, we’re here to help you get familiar with it. Here are 5 shots you ought to master.
Serve
If you’re familiar with tennis, or even volleyball, then you know that each point starts with a serve. If you have a mean serve, you’re already making things a bit challenging for your opponent. Also, there’s nothing better than starting a nice match with a confident serve. Practice makes perfect but just keep the following in mind: aim for accuracy over power. As Catherine Paranteau says, “The main thing in pickleball is to be patient.”
Return of Serve
Your opponent will definitely step up their defense after an impressive serve. A return of serve is an important shot to keep the match going. Aim the ball at your opponent’s feet. This will encourage a weak return. Also, be aware of your opponent's body position, as well of yours. Both of your stances will play a huge part in the return.
Third Shot Drop
Next is the third shot drop. This specific shot is right after the return of serve. Your goal here is to hit the ball with a controlled touch, just enough for the ball to land in the opponent’s non-volley zone. An upward shot is pretty tough to nail, so the closer your opponent is to the net the harder it is for them to score.
Volley
A volley in pickleball is similar to a volley in volleyball. So, if you (or your opponent) hits the ball while it’s still in the air, that’s a volley shot. Keep your paddle up and in front of you for precision. If you’re near the net, it may be your only option to return the ball. Keep the non-volleyball zone in mind. This zone extends 7 feet from the net on both sides. Stepping in this zone when hitting a volley results in a fault.
Overhead Smash
Last but not least, we have an overhead smash. If you get a high ball, you may be at an advantage. Just how a volleyball player uses the perfect set for a kill, you need to be ready to attack. With perfect footwork, you can finish off a point here. It’s a bit intimidating to the opponent. If you’re on the other side of a high ball, be ready to react quickly.
Stroke Versus Shot
Stroke and shot are used interchangeably in pickleball, and depending who you ask they have different meanings. A stroke is typically referred to the entire motion of the paddle when hitting the ball. From preparation to follow-through. A shot is typically referring to the hit (not the motion). Similar to volleyball, a good technique is key to good offensive and defensive skills. If you have good preparation and body technique before hitting, you’re on your way to becoming a pro.
Should I Buy a Paddle?
Tangerine Paddle Bar Harbor Design
As a beginner in any sport, you may be reluctant to invest in any gear. That’s totally reasonable! A big reason why you’d want to buy your own paddle is if you’re not happy with the gear you’re renting or borrowing.
Tangerine pickleball paddles are made with a lightweight design for improved hand speed and an elongated face for improved power. Check out all of our artistically designed pickleball paddles and choose your favorite!
