Mastering Powerful Shot in Pickleball: When players first enter pickleball, the instinct is often to hit the ball harder. The desire to blast the ball “down the line” or serve missile-like shots is common. While hitting with power is a tempting approach, learning the subtleties of control and finesse is essential for becoming a well-rounded player.
Hitting the pickleball harder offers distinct advantages, but understanding the right moments to do so—and how to incorporate spin—can make a player more unpredictable and dangerous on the court.
The Advantages of Power in Pickleball
Hitting the ball with power offers several clear advantages. First, it reduces the opponent’s reaction time, forcing them to make shots from uncomfortable positions. This often leads to weak returns or pop-ups, creating offensive opportunities. For instance, a powerful third-shot drive may set up an easy drop shot on the fifth shot, enabling the team to move up to the non-volley line.
The benefits extend beyond creating opportunities. A player who can mix in hard shots becomes much more unpredictable than one who only relies on soft shots. The ability to change the tempo of the game keeps opponents on edge, as they cannot anticipate what will happen next. A player who combines power and touch becomes a constant threat.
Disadvantages of Power: The Risks of Going Too Hard
Despite the advantages, hitting the ball with power does come with pickleball risks. The most significant disadvantage is the increased likelihood of errors, such as hitting the ball out of bounds or into the net. Precision is crucial when using power, as even slight missteps in timing or pickleball technique can result in costly mistakes.
Fast-paced pickleball shots can also be turned against the hitter. Skilled opponents, particularly those with quick reflexes, may volley the ball back at the feet or keep the player pinned to the baseline, preventing access to the non-volley line.
Another challenge with hitting the ball hard is the reduced margin for error. Without sufficient spin, a hard shot becomes more difficult to control, and minor pickleball mistakes in technique can lead to significant deviations in the shot’s trajectory.
Hitting the pickleball harder doesn’t require sacrificing control. With the right technique, a player can add pace, power, and spin while maintaining accuracy. Here’s how to do it:
1. Get the Pickleball Paddle Grip Right
Though the continental grip is commonly used for most shots, rotating the hand slightly for forehand drives and serves can offer more power. The eastern forehand grip positions the palm behind the handle, enabling the player to brush up on the ball, generating spin and better control.
2. Early Preparation and Proper Backswing
Simone Jardim, a top women’s pickleball player, emphasizes the importance of being “ready at the bounce.” As soon as the ball is identified, the paddle should be positioned early, allowing for a clean, powerful stroke. For drives or serves, the paddle should be behind the body with a laid-back wrist to generate more power and control.
3. Transfer Weight
To hit a shot with more pace, weight needs to be transferred from the back leg to the front leg. Proper hip and shoulder rotation is critical to avoid relying solely on the arm. Without this motion, generating power and control becomes much more difficult.
4. Contact in Front and Follow Through
The point of contact should be in front of the body, not beside it, to maximize power. After contact, the stroke should flow naturally, following through over the opposite shoulder. A smooth, continuous motion is essential for hitting a strong shot that stays within the court.
5. Swing Path and Topspin
A low-to-high swing path helps create topspin in pickleball, which enables the ball to stay on the court while adding power. Experimenting with the balance between brushing up on the ball and swinging outward will determine the ideal pickleball shot. A flatter shot, with minimal spin, travels faster but is harder to control, while a more spin-heavy shot may lack speed but provide greater accuracy.
News in Brief: Mastering Powerful Shot in Pickleball
Power in pickleball is a valuable tool, but it carries risks. Hitting harder reduces the opponent’s reaction time, opening the door for mistakes. However, it also increases the chance of errors. With the right pickleball technique—focusing on grip, preparation, weight transfer, and follow-through—players can strike a balance between power and control. Finding that balance is crucial for success in pickleball, making the ability to mix hard and soft shots an essential aspect of gameplay.
ALSO READ: Tanner Tomassi’s Backhand Dink Tips That Make Accuracy Easy for Any Pickleball Player