The Basics of Pickleball Shots & Strokes
In pickleball, shots and strokes are the building blocks of the game. A stroke refers to the way the ball is hit, such as with a forehand or backhand, while a shot is the actual technique or intention behind the stroke.
Whether you’re focusing on serving, volleying, or dinking, having a solid foundation in basic strokes will allow you to perform more complex shots with confidence. Let's dive into the most fundamental shots that you should know as you learn to play the game.
1. The Serve
The serve is where every rally begins. It’s not just about getting the ball into play; a well-placed serve can put your opponent on the defensive right from the start. Focus on hitting deep, keeping your opponent pinned to the baseline. Practice both power and placement, as varying your serves can disrupt your opponent’s rhythm. Aim for consistency above all, as a reliable serve can set the tone for the point.
2. The Return
Like the serve, the return of serve is crucial for dictating the pace of the rally. After your opponent’s serve, a deep return forces them to stay back, giving you time to move up to the kitchen line. Be prepared to counter any spin or speed your opponent puts on their serve, and focus on keeping the ball low to prevent an easy attack.
3. 3rd Shot Drive
After the serve and return, the third shot is often a player’s first chance to take control of the point. The 3rd shot drive is an aggressive option, especially for beginners who aren’t yet comfortable with a 3rd shot drop. By hitting a low, fast-paced drive, you can push your opponents back or catch them off guard. This shot works particularly well when your opponent is slow to get to the net after returning your serve.
4. Passing Shot
The passing shot is a go-to weapon when your opponent is at the net. By aiming a powerful shot down the sidelines or cross-court, you can bypass your opponent’s positioning and force them to make difficult returns. Timing is key; wait for the right moment when your opponent is off-balance or leaves an opening.
5. Roll Drive
A roll drive adds topspin to a standard drive, helping the ball dip quickly after clearing the net. This is especially useful when you want to maintain an aggressive rally but also ensure the ball stays in play. By using topspin, you can control the trajectory and pace of the shot.
6. Speedup off the Bounce
The speedup is a great option when you want to catch your opponent off guard by increasing the pace after a soft bounce. Often used during dink exchanges, this shot can shift the momentum of the point in your favor. It’s an aggressive move, but when executed properly, it can force errors from your opponent.
7. Punch Volley
The punch volley is a quick, compact shot used to deflect fast-moving balls in the air without taking a full swing. This shot is highly effective when playing at the net, allowing you to intercept drives and maintain pressure on your opponents. The key is to keep your paddle firm and move it quickly to meet the ball.
8. Flick Volley
The flick volley is a quick wrist action that generates speed on a short ball in the air. It’s an excellent shot for when your opponent expects a soft return, allowing you to turn the tables by injecting pace into the rally. This shot can be especially useful during net exchanges.
9. Firefight Volley
In high-level pickleball, volley battles at the net—often referred to as firefights—can determine the outcome of the match. In these fast-paced exchanges, players hit rapid volleys back and forth without letting the ball bounce. Staying calm and controlled in these moments is critical. Work on minimizing your paddle movements while maintaining accuracy to win these encounters.
10. Slice Volley
The slice volley is a shot that allows you to put a backspin on the ball, causing it to skid low off the ground after bouncing. This makes it difficult for your opponent to return with power, often forcing them into a weak or high return. Use this shot to keep the ball low and make your opponent hit up.
11. Scorpion
The scorpion shot is a more advanced volley, typically used in high-pressure situations when you’re facing a speedup from below the net. It involves raising your paddle over your head and deflecting the ball with a quick, defensive motion. The key is anticipating what your opponent is going to do and getting your paddle up and your body down.
12. Slice Dink
The slice dink adds backspin to your dink shot, helping you control the ball and make it skid after hitting the court. This technique is perfect for putting pressure on your opponent. Practice different angles and placements with this shot to become unpredictable.
13. Topspin Dink
The topspin dink is another variation of the dink that adds topspin to the ball. This makes the ball accelerate off the bounce while also giving it extra jump once it hits the ground. It’s a great way to apply pressure during dinking rallies, as it can force weak returns from your opponents.
14. Overhead Smash
When your opponent tries to lob the ball over your head, the overhead smash is your best option to finish the point. This powerful shot is hit with maximum force and is designed to put the ball out of your opponent’s reach. Positioning is key here—make sure to track the lob early so you can hit the smash cleanly. It’s one of the most satisfying shots in pickleball when executed correctly.
Take Your Pickleball Shots to the Next Level
Mastering the wide range of pickleball shots and strokes is key to becoming a versatile player. From fundamental serves and returns to more advanced techniques like the firefight volley and scorpion shot, each stroke adds a layer to your game. Keep practicing and experimenting with these shots to find your rhythm on the court.
If you’re serious about improving your pickleball skills, consider signing up for the Paddlespeed Program, where you’ll learn how to enhance your paddle speed and control using science-based techniques. Get started today, and watch your game transform!
