Pickleball Technical Strokes & Movements
1. Serve
Underhand Serve
The pickleball serve must be hit with an underhand motion.
Contact with the ball should be made below the navel, and the paddle must move in an upward arc.
At least one foot must remain behind the baseline until the ball is struck.
Key Coaching Points:
• Relaxed grip
• Smooth, controlled swing
• Aim for depth, not speed
2. Return of Serve
The return of serve should be hit deep into the opponent’s court to keep them back and allow time to move to the kitchen line.
Key Coaching Points:
• Stay balanced
• Focus on depth and consistency
• Move forward immediately after the shot
3. Forehand Groundstroke
The forehand groundstroke is a fundamental offensive shot used from the baseline or mid-court.
Technique Description:
• Turn shoulders sideways
• Paddle back early
• Step forward and transfer weight
• Finish swing across the body
4. Backhand Groundstroke
The backhand groundstroke can be executed with one or two hands, depending on player preference.
Technique Description:
• Rotate shoulders early
• Keep the paddle face stable
• Step into the shot
• Maintain balance through contact
5. Third Shot Drop
The third shot drop is a soft shot hit from the baseline into the non-volley zone.
Purpose:
To neutralize the point and allow the serving team to move forward.
Key Coaching Points:
• Soft grip pressure
• High arc over the net
• Gentle, controlled swing
6. Drive Shot
The drive is a fast, aggressive shot used to pressure opponents.
When to Use:
• Against high balls
• To surprise opponents
Coaching Tips:
• Stay balanced
• Control direction
• Avoid over-hitting
7. Dink Shot
A dink is a soft shot hit into the non-volley zone from near the kitchen line.
Key Points:
• Minimal backswing
• Soft hands
• High margin over the net
Goal:
Force opponents to hit up and create attacking opportunities.
8. Volley
A volley is hit in the air before the ball bounces, usually near the kitchen line.
Technique Description:
• Short, compact motion
• Paddle in front of the body
• Use minimal wrist action
9. Block Volley
The block volley is a defensive shot used to neutralize fast drives.
Key Coaching Points:
• Relaxed grip
• Soft hands
• Let the ball rebound off the paddle
10. Overhead Smash
The overhead smash is an attacking shot used against lobs.
Technique Description:
• Turn sideways
• Point non-paddle shoulder toward the ball
• Contact the ball at full extension
• Follow through downward
11. Lob Shot
A lob is a high, arcing shot that sends the ball over the opponent.
When to Use:
• Against aggressive net players
• To reset positioning
Coaching Tip:
Use disguise and proper height for effectiveness.
12. Footwork & Recovery
Good footwork is essential for executing all technical shots.
Key Principles:
• Stay on the balls of the feet
• Use split steps
• Recover to position after every shot
13. Ready Position
The ready position prepares players for quick reactions.
Key Elements:
• Knees bent
• Paddle in front
• Balanced stance
14. Transition Zone Play
The transition zone is the area between the baseline and the kitchen.
Key Focus:
• Controlled movement
• Patience
• Use soft shots when necessary
Key Takeaway
Mastering pickleball technique is not about power, but about control, consistency, and positioning.
Solid fundamentals lead to better decision-making and long-term improvement.
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