15 Common Beginner Pickleball Mistakes And How To Fix Them

Pickleball is a fun and exciting sport that is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. However, like any sport, there are common mistakes that beginners make. These mistakes can affect your performance and enjoyment of the game. 

Common Beginner Pickleball Mistakes And How To Fix Them

In this article, we will explore 10 common beginner pickleball mistakes and how to fix them.

1. Gripping the Paddle Too Tight

One common mistake that beginners make is gripping the paddle too tight. This can cause tension in your arm, making it harder to control the ball. To fix this mistake, practice holding the paddle loosely and focus on relaxing your arm muscles.

2.Standing Too Far Back

Another mistake beginners make is standing too far back from the court. This can make it difficult to hit the ball and can result in missed shots. To fix this mistake, move closer to the net and practice hitting the ball from a shorter distance.

3. Not Moving Your Feet

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is not moving their feet. This can result in missed shots and difficulty getting to the ball. To fix this mistake, practice moving your feet and positioning yourself for each shot.

4. Not Using the Proper Technique

Using the proper technique is important in pickleball. Beginners often make the mistake of using a tennis or badminton technique, which is not effective in pickleball. To fix this mistake, practice using the proper technique and watch instructional videos to learn the correct form.

5. Not Communicating with Your Partner

Pickleball is a team sport, and communication is key. Beginners often make the mistake of not communicating with their partner, which can result in missed shots and confusion on the court. To fix this mistake, practice communicating with your partner and develop a system for calling shots.

6. Being Too Predictable

Being predictable on the court can make it easier for your opponents to anticipate your shots. Beginners often make the mistake of being too predictable. To fix this mistake, practice varying your shots and using different strategies during the game.

7. Rushing Your Shots

Rushing your shots is a common mistake that beginners make. This can result in missed shots and poor performance on the court. To fix this mistake, practice taking your time and focusing on each shot.

8. Not Keeping Your Eye on the Ball

Keeping your eye on the ball is essential in pickleball. Beginners often make the mistake of not keeping their eye on the ball, which can result in missed shots and poor performance on the court. To fix this mistake, practice keeping your eye on the ball and tracking its movement.

9. Overreaching for Shots

Overreaching for shots is a common mistake that beginners make. This can result in missed shots and injury. To fix this mistake, practice positioning yourself correctly for each shot and avoid overreaching.

10. Not Practicing Enough

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is not practicing enough. Pickleball requires practice to improve your skills and performance on the court. To fix this mistake, practice regularly and seek feedback from more experienced players.

11.Not Adjusting to Different Shots

Beginners often make the mistake of not adjusting to different shots. This can make it difficult to return the ball and can result in missed shots. To fix this mistake, practice adjusting your position and technique based on the type of shot your opponent makes.

12. Hitting the Ball Too Hard

Hitting the ball too hard is a common mistake that beginners make. This can cause the ball to go out of bounds or result in a missed shot. To fix this mistake, practice controlling your power and focus on accuracy.

13. Playing Too Close to the Net

Playing too close to the net is another common mistake that beginners make. This can make it difficult to return shots and can result in missed shots. To fix this mistake, practice positioning yourself correctly and find the right balance between being close enough to the net and having enough space to return shots.

14. Not Using the Non-Dominant Hand

Beginners often make the mistake of not using their non-dominant hand in pickleball. This can limit their ability to make certain shots and can result in missed opportunities. To fix this mistake, practice using your non-dominant hand and work on developing your weaker side.

15. Not Anticipating the Ball's Movement

Not anticipating the ball's movement is a common mistake that beginners make. This can make it difficult to return shots and can result in missed opportunities. To fix this mistake, practice reading your opponent's shots and anticipating where the ball will go. Focus on being prepared to make your next move.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pickleball is a fun and exciting sport, but beginners can make common mistakes that affect their performance and enjoyment of the game. By addressing these 15 common mistakes and practicing regularly, beginners can improve their skills and become better players on the court. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are some common beginner pickleball mistakes?

Common beginner pickleball mistakes include gripping the paddle too tight, standing too far back from the court, not moving your feet, using improper technique, not communicating with your partner, being too predictable, rushing shots, not keeping your eye on the ball, overreaching for shots, and not practicing enough.

How can I fix my grip on the pickleball paddle?

To fix your grip on the pickleball paddle, practice holding the paddle loosely and focus on relaxing your arm muscles. A looser grip can help reduce tension and allow for better control of the ball.

What is the proper technique for playing pickleball?

The proper technique for playing pickleball includes using a short backswing, keeping your wrist firm, using your legs to generate power, and using a smooth follow-through. It's important to practice the proper technique and watch instructional videos to learn the correct form.

How can I improve my footwork in pickleball?

To improve your footwork in pickleball, practice moving your feet and positioning yourself for each shot. Focus on anticipating where the ball will go and being prepared to make your next move.

What are some strategies for communicating with my partner in pickleball?

Strategies for communicating with your partner in pickleball include developing a system for calling shots, using hand signals, and being clear and concise in your communication. It's important to practice communication with your partner to develop a strong team dynamic.

How can I avoid being too predictable in my pickleball shots?

To avoid being too predictable in your pickleball shots, practice varying your shots and using different strategies during the game. Focus on mixing up your shots and keeping your opponent guessing.

What can I do to avoid rushing my shots in pickleball?

To avoid rushing your shots in pickleball, take your time and focus on each shot. Practice maintaining a consistent pace and developing a routine for each shot.

How often should I practice pickleball to improve my skills?

To improve your skills in pickleball, it's recommended to practice regularly. This can vary depending on your schedule and skill level, but aim to practice at least a few times a week. Seek feedback from more experienced players and focus on areas where you need improvement.