John Cincola’s Power Serve Technique: Pickleball player athlete John Cincola recently shared a video highlighting the importance of body rotation in generating power during serves. According to Cincola, many amateur players don’t utilize enough rotation, which limits their ability to generate maximum power on their shots.
The Power of Rotation
Cincola points out that if you watch most players’ serves, especially amateurs, you will notice a lack of body rotation. He demonstrates this using a video of a player, Zane, who generates significant power despite having a small frame. Cincola explains that Zane’s left foot remains anchored, acting as the central point of rotation. This allows his body to rotate 180 degrees during the serve, creating a powerful shot.
How Rotation Works
Cincola emphasizes that the key to generating power is not just using the arms, but the whole body. The rotation starts from the legs, moves through the hips, and is transferred to the upper body and paddle. By rotating the body around the anchored foot, players can achieve a full 180-degree turn from start to finish, which results in increased power.
Expert Insight
Cincola states, “Even with a pretty small frame, Zane is able to get massive power just because he’s using that body rotation.” He further explains that most players are not rotating enough, which leads to weaker serves and less control. By focusing on proper body rotation, players can significantly improve their serves and shots.
Why It Matters
Body rotation is essential for generating power and control, particularly in pickleball serves. Players who master the kinetic chain of movement—starting from the legs, rotating through the hips, and transferring that power to the paddle—can hit stronger, more accurate shots. Understanding this technique can help players of all skill levels elevate their game and compete at higher levels.
News in Brief: John Cincola’s Power Serve Technique
John Cincola highlights the importance of body rotation in generating power for pickleball serves. He explains how players can maximize power by rotating 180 degrees around an anchored foot, using the entire body rather than just the arms. Cincola emphasizes that improving rotation leads to stronger, more controlled serves, helping players elevate their game.

