5 Serve Techniques Every Pickleball Player Should Know
The serve starts every point, and while you can't win a point directly with a pickleball serve (unlike tennis), a great serve can force a weak return and set up an easy third shot. Here are five serve techniques worth developing.
1. The soft deep serve
A slow, high arc that lands deep in the service box forces your opponent to let it bounce and reduces their angle for an aggressive return. It's low-risk and great for beginners.
2. The power drive
A flat, fast serve aimed at the opponent's backhand. It pressures weaker players but has higher fault risk. Use it when you've established consistency with your regular serve.
3. The topspin serve
Adding topspin makes the ball kick up after it bounces, creating an awkward return. This requires good contact technique, brush up on the ball at contact.
4. The drop serve
Introduced as a rule change, the drop serve involves dropping the ball and hitting it as it bounces. It's easier to add spin with a drop serve and is increasingly popular at all skill levels.
5. The body serve
Serving directly at the opponent's body, especially their hip, limits their swing options and forces an awkward return. Particularly effective against players who like to rip returns from wide angles.
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