Let’s face it: pickleball is the fastest-growing sport for a reason—it’s ridiculously fun! But there’s nothing less fun than whiffing your shots because you’re holding your paddle like it’s a spatula. We’re here to save you from embarrassment and maybe even impress your doubles partner with this guide on how to hold your pickleball paddle like a pro.
1. Why the Right Grip Matters
Hit the ball exactly where you want it.
Keep your wrist from going arthritic.
Dominate those sneaky spin shots.
2. Pickleball Grips: Choose Your Weapon
A. The Continental Grip (All-In-One)
This grip does it all—forehand, backhand, dinks, and smashes.
Grab the paddle like you’re about to shake its hand.
Make sure your thumb and index finger form a “V” shape.
Voilà! You’re ready to slice, dice, and serve up some pickleball magic.
B. The Eastern Forehand Grip (Power Shots)
For booming forehands and over-heads that make opponents duck.
Rotate the paddle slightly so your palm faces the paddle face.
Channel your inner psycho and smack that pickleball.
C. The Western Grip (Spin City)
Make your opponents question their existence with this cheeky forehand grip.
Tilt the paddle into your palm so it faces the ground and get ready to twist and shout.
Warning: this grip requires practice unless you like hitting the ball into orbit.
We Want to Show You HOW!
3. Gripping for Specific Shots (Because Variety is the Spice of Pickleball)
Dinking: Go soft and relaxed—imagine you’re high-fiving a baby.
Volleys: Firm up that grip for stability—like getting ready for the hardest high-five.
Serves and Overheads: Firm but flexible—you want power, and a ball that goes where you want it to.
4. Size Matters (Paddle Grip Size, That Is)
Holding a paddle that’s too big or too small is like wearing shoes that don’t fit—awkward and painful.
Find a grip circumference that feels just right.
Test paddles until you find one that feels like an extension of your arm.
5. Practice Makes Pickleball Perfection
Mastering your grip won’t happen overnight, but with a little practice, you’ll be the talk of the court. Try out different grips during practice matches and see what feels most natural—bonus points if you strike a heroic pose between shots.
Whether you’re dinking, smashing, or trying not to trip over your own feet, holding your paddle correctly can take your pickleball game to the next level. And if all else fails, just remember: you’re here to have fun!
At Pickleball Impact Zone, we’ve got everything you need to up your game—from paddles to lessons to the best laughs you've had in ages. Contact us and meet your new favorite coach or check out our site for more tips!
We look forward to seeing you on the court,
Comments