Inside-out and Inside-in Pickleball Shots: Pickleball players of all levels are learning to use inside-out and inside-in shots to win more points. These two types of shots—often used during rallies or near the kitchen line—help players move opponents out of position and add variety to their game. While they may sound complicated, these shots are about hitting the ball from your strong side and deciding where to send it. Understanding how and when to use each one can improve any player’s performance.
Pickleball players might first hear these terms after watching a tricky crosscourt shot that seems to defy angles. However, these moves are not just for advanced players. Even those at the 3.0 level can use these shots to make smarter plays, keep opponents guessing, and win points in new ways.
What Are Inside-Out and Inside-In Shots?
These two types of shots are based on where a player makes contact with the ball and where they send it.
- Inside-In Shot: This is when the ball is hit on the dominant side and sent straight ahead or down the sideline. Example: A forehand from the right side going straight down the right.
- Inside-Out Shot: This is also hit from the dominant side, but the ball is sent across the court, usually toward the opponent’s backhand side.
Both shots use the player’s strong side but go in different directions. The goal is to use angle, paddle face, and timing to make it hard for the opponent to know what’s coming.
| Shot Type | Contact Side | Ball Path | Crosses Body? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inside-In | Dominant side | Down the line | No |
| Inside-Out | Dominant side | Crosscourt | No |
| Outside-In | Non-dominant side | Crosscourt | Yes |
| Outside-Out | Non-dominant side | Down the line | Yes |
Why Inside-Out and Inside-In Shots Matter
Using these shots helps players gain more control over the rally and pressure opponents in different ways.
Benefits include:
- Creating angles that force opponents wide.
- Keeping the ball low and fast for safer shots.
- Confusing opponents by making the shot look the same until the last second.
- Adding more choices during a point.
Inside-in shots help keep play steady. Inside-out shots are more creative and less predictable.
How to Hit an Inside-Out Shot
The inside-out forehand can be hard to master but is very effective.
Steps to follow:
- Footwork: Stand in an open or semi-open position. This allows your upper body to rotate easily.
- Contact Point: Hit the ball slightly in front and to the side—not directly in front.
- Paddle Angle: Tilt the paddle outward and swing across your body with a low-to-high motion for topspin.
- Wrist Movement: Use a small wrist roll to help the ball arc crosscourt and land deep.
- Target: Aim for the opponent’s backhand side or the open middle area.
How to Hit an Inside-In Shot
This shot is more straightforward and often used as a basic attack.
Steps to follow:
- Stance: Use a neutral or closed stance to push forward through the shot.
- Contact Point: Hit the ball slightly in front of your body and in line with your shoulder.
- Paddle Movement: Swing straight ahead. You can use spin or hit it flat.
- Target: Hit down the line or aim for the opponent’s body to make returning harder.
Using These Shots Near the Net
Inside-out and inside-in aren’t just for hitting from the back of the court. They also work well in short dinks near the kitchen.
- Inside-out dinks help move the opponent to the far corner.
- Inside-in dinks can pressure the sideline and test your opponent’s footwork.
Both types help control the game without needing powerful swings.
Mistakes to Watch For
Many players make the same errors when trying these shots:
- Showing the Shot Too Early: If the paddle face is turned too soon, the opponent can guess where it’s going.
- Hitting Inside-Out Off-Balance: These shots need a strong base. If you’re off-balance, it’s better to go with a safe shot.
- Overusing One Shot: Relying too much on one type makes it easier for the opponent to adjust.
- Swinging Too Flat: Without enough spin, inside-out shots can go into the net or out of bounds.
Best Times to Use Each Shot
| Situation | Best Shot | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Opponent leans crosscourt | Inside-In | Hit down the line to catch them off guard |
| You need to change direction | Inside-Out | Creates space and shifts court position |
| Fast net exchange | Inside-In/Out | Use angles to surprise the opponent |
| You’re in the center of the court | Inside-Out | Keeps the opponent moving and guessing |
| Your forehand feels strong | Inside-Out | Allows you to try new angles and control space |
What Players Should Do
Players should use both shots but know when each one works best.
- Inside-In: For control, speed, and safer options.
- Inside-Out: For surprise, angles, and creativity.
Both are useful and can work together in a match. Players can practice them by setting targets and drilling regularly. The more they use them, the more natural and effective these shots will become.
News in Brief: Inside-out and Inside-in Pickleball Shots
Inside-out and inside-in shots in pickleball help players control rallies and confuse opponents. Inside-in is used for straight, safe hits; inside-out adds surprise with angled crosscourt shots. Practicing both can make a player more skilled and harder to predict in any game.
ALSO READ: The Surprising Secret to Predicting Opponent Shots in Pickleball