Starting out in pickleball can be a blast, but like any new sport, it comes with its share of common mistakes. Here are the top 5 beginner mistakes —and how you can avoid them to improve your game and have more fun on the court!
1. Standing Too Close to the Baseline
– Mistake- Many beginners tend to stand too close to the baseline after serving or returning, which limits their ability to move forward and control the net.
– Solution- Stand 1-2ft behind the baseline to give you space to react to balls before moving up toward the kitchen (non-volley zone) after serving or returning. This allows you to control the game better and be ready for volleys.
2. Hitting the Ball Too Hard
– Mistake- Beginners often try to hit the ball with too much power, thinking that harder shots will win points. This leads to balls going out of bounds or into the net.
– Solution- Focus on control and placement rather than power. Pickleball is more about finesse and shot strategy than brute strength.
3. Forgetting to Dink
-Mistake- New players sometimes overlook the importance of the “dink” shot (a soft shot just over the net into the kitchen area (non-volley zone), which can slow the game and force opponents to make errors.
-Solution- Practice dinking to keep the ball low and force your opponents into uncomfortable positions, gaining an advantage in rallies.
4. Neglecting the Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen) Rules
– Mistake – Some beginners don’t fully understand or follow the kitchen rules, such as hitting volleys (ball out of the air) while standing in the non-volley zone, which results in faults.
– Solution – Learn and practice the kitchen rules to avoid unnecessary errors. Focus on positioning yourself just behind the kitchen line and step in only when necessary for a dink. Fun Fact: You can stand in the kitchen and wait for the ball to bounce before hitting the ball, no need to wait for the ball to bounce first before stepping in).
5. Lack of Communication in Doubles
– Mistake – In doubles play, beginners often fail to communicate with their partners, leading to missed shots or confusion over who should take a particular ball.
– Solution – Always communicate with your partner, call out shots like “yours” or “mine,” and work together to cover the court efficiently.
By avoiding the top 5 beginner mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to improving your pickleball game and enjoying every match. So grab a paddle, find a partner, and get out on the court—pickleball is waiting for you!
