In pickleball, the serve is a fundamental aspect of gameplay and can set the tone for the entire match. Whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned player, refining your serving technique is crucial for gaining a competitive edge. Here are some tips that can help you serve more effectively:
- Serve deep (close to the baseline): A deep serve forces your opponent to hit their return from behind the baseline, making it more difficult for them to hit a deep, aggressive return. A shallow return makes it easier for you to control the third shot and gives you an easier opportunity to hit a drop shot, drive, or lob.
- Serve to your opponent's backhand: Most players have a weaker backhand, so serving to your opponent’s backhand will often result in a softer return, again making it easier for you to control the third shot.
- Mix it up: Sending a wide variety of different serves to your opponents can be an effective strategy, because it prevents them from being able to plan their return ahead of time. This means that you should send over some lob serves and some low, power serves; you should send many serves to your opponent’s backhand, but occasionally, also send some serves to their forehand. And, feel free to send over some flat serves, but some serves with spin as well!
- Keep your arm relaxed, and serve from your shoulder: Using a smooth, fluid swing will enable you to serve deeper and will make your serve more consistent.
- Hit the ball out in front of you when serving: This will give you more control and power.
- Practice: The more you practice serving, the more consistent your serve will become and the more alternative types of serves you will develop and hone.
Happy pickling!
