Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, attracting players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, improving your game means understanding the common mistakes that can cost you points. In this post, we’ll go over five frequent pickleball mistakes and how you can correct them to elevate your performance on the court.
1. Holding the Paddle Incorrectly
Your grip on the paddle can make or break your game. Many beginners either grip too tightly or hold their paddle too loosely, leading to inconsistent shots and poor control. The correct way to hold your paddle is with a relaxed grip, allowing for quick wrist movement and better shot precision.
Fix It:
- Use a continental grip, where your index knuckle rests on the third bevel of the paddle handle.
- Experiment with different grips while practicing to find what feels natural.
- Invest in one of the top-rated pickleball paddles that provide comfort and better control.
By adjusting your grip, you’ll improve shot consistency and reduce strain on your arm during long matches.
2. Neglecting Pickleball Scoring Rules
Many players, especially beginners, struggle with pickleball scoring. This mistake can lead to confusion during gameplay and unnecessary lost points. Pickleball uses a unique scoring system where only the serving team can score, and the game is typically played to 11 points, winning by at least two.
Fix It:
- Familiarize yourself with the serving sequence—player one serves first, and if they lose the point, the serve moves to their teammate (in doubles) before switching to the opposing team.
- Keep track of your position after every point to avoid standing in the wrong spot.
- Practice calling out the score before serving to reinforce learning.
Understanding and mastering pickleball scoring will help you play confidently and avoid unnecessary disputes on the court.
3. Standing in the Wrong Position
Footwork and positioning are crucial in pickleball. Standing too close to the baseline or not moving efficiently can leave you vulnerable to attacks from your opponents.
Fix It:
- Stay near the kitchen (non-volley zone) when possible. This is the strongest position for offense and defense.
- Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and be ready to move quickly.
- Watch professional games to see how skilled players position themselves for maximum advantage.
Correct positioning allows you to respond effectively to fast shots and take control of the rally.
4. Ignoring Pickleball Basics
Many players try to skip over pickleball basics and jump straight into advanced techniques. This often leads to inconsistent gameplay and frustration.
Fix It:
- Work on fundamental strokes like dinking, volleys, and drop shots before attempting power shots.
- Develop a consistent serve and return strategy.
- Focus on accuracy over power—control wins more points than speed.
Mastering the pickleball basics will give you a strong foundation, setting you up for long-term success on the court.
5. Not Playing Smart Against Opponents
Pickleball is as much about strategy as it is about skill. Many players make the mistake of playing reactively instead of proactively, hitting the ball without a clear game plan.
Fix It:
- Watch your opponents’ movements and anticipate their next shot.
- Mix up your shots to keep your opponents guessing—don’t always return the ball in the same way.
- Communicate effectively with your doubles partner to cover the court efficiently.
Smart gameplay can give you a competitive edge and help you win more matches.
Final Thoughts: Improve Your Game Today!
Avoiding these five common pickleball mistakes can take your game to the next level. Whether it’s improving your grip, understanding pickleball scoring, refining your positioning, mastering pickleball basics, or playing strategically, small adjustments can make a big difference.
Want to sharpen your skills even further? Join a local pickleball community to practice with experienced players, get tips, and enjoy competitive matches. The more you play, the better you’ll become!