Let’s get back to basics and set the stage for every rally.
Why the Serve is More Than Just a Start
Here’s the deal: the serve might seem simple, but it’s the heartbeat of every point. A consistent serve doesn’t just get the ball in play—it gives you confidence and sets you up for success. At the beginner and intermediate levels, there’s no need for crazy spin or power. It’s all about consistency and keeping things simple.
When I first started learning to play Pickleball, the serve was the first skill I focused on. As I progressed and began teaching, I realized just how critical it is to break this skill down into manageable steps for players at every level. Mastering the serve isn’t just about getting the ball over the net; it’s about building the foundation for your game.
Many players overlook how the serve can set up their third shot. For example, when you can serve with depth or target your opponent’s weaker side, you’re already influencing the point. This approach becomes especially important as you advance, where those first three shots make all the difference in gaining an edge.
What We’re Aiming For in Stage One
Think of the serve as your foundation. Here are the key building blocks:
- Get the Ball In Play: The golden rule. Consistency is everything.
- Be Accurate: Place the ball where it’s most effective for your game.
- Build Muscle Memory: Repetition breeds confidence.
For beginners, success in Stage One means hitting 80-90% of your serves into the correct service box. You’ll know you’re ready to progress when you can do this consistently under pressure. By practicing purposeful serves, like aiming for a forehand or backhand, you’re also laying the groundwork for a better third shot opportunity.
How to Serve Like a Pro (Even if You’re New)
If you’re just getting started or want to refine your fundamentals, follow these steps:
-
Set Yourself Up for Success:
- Stand behind the baseline on the correct side of the court (check your score if you’re unsure).
- Position your feet for balance and control—no awkward stances here.
-
Keep it Smooth:
- Paddle contact should happen below your waist with an underhand stroke.
- Focus on a smooth motion instead of trying to crush the ball. Remember, placement over power!
-
Aim Deep and Diagonal:
- Keep the ball deep and close to the baseline to make your opponent’s return tougher.
- Don’t stress about perfection; we’re aiming for progress, not perfection.
- If you’re just getting started or want to refine your fundamentals, follow these steps: Whiteboard Wednesday: Pickleball Serve For The Win
- Watch this video for a visual breakdown of the key elements of a successful serve.
During Stage One, I often emphasize to players that the serve is less about power and more about consistency. “Let’s get the ball in and get the game started” is my mantra for beginners. This approach helps players build confidence without overcomplicating their technique.
Additionally, consider how your serve can influence the return. For example, a high, deep serve may push your opponent back and create a short return, giving you a better third shot opportunity. Experiment with targeting different areas of the service box to see what works best against your opponents.
Drills to Make Your Serve Shine
Here’s how to make those serves rock-solid:
- Consistency Challenge: How many serves can you land in a row? Start with 10 and work up.
- Cone Drill: Set up cones at different depths in the service box. Begin by aiming past the halfway point and progress toward the baseline. Focus on hitting past the cones consistently.
- Depth Drill: Practice getting your serve to bounce close to the baseline to push returners back.
- Target the Forehand or Backhand: Split the service box in half and work on placing serves on your opponent’s weaker side.
- Serve Under Pressure: Simulate game situations—serve when it “counts.” For example, imagine serving for match point to replicate the mental pressure of a real game.
- Drills to Make Your Serve Shine. Here’s how to make those serves rock-solid: White Wednesday – Serve Practice & Strategy
In this video, I’ll walk you through the cone drill and other techniques to improve serve consistency.From the videos, one effective progression is starting with consistent serves past the halfway point and gradually working on depth and placement. Once you’ve mastered consistency, begin varying speeds and trajectories to challenge your opponent’s rhythm.
Strategy: Using the Serve to Gain an Advantage
The serve isn’t just about getting the ball in play; it’s your first chance to put pressure on your opponent. Here’s how:
- Target Weaknesses: Pay attention to whether your opponent struggles with forehand or backhand returns. Adjust your serve placement to exploit this.
- Mix It Up: Vary the speed and height of your serves. For instance, alternate between flat, fast serves and high, looping ones to keep your opponent guessing.
- Create Easier Third Shots: A well-placed serve can lead to a short return or a high-bouncing ball, setting you up for an offensive third shot.
As discussed in the transcript, moving your serve around the service box helps you identify what works best against your opponent. For some players, body serves can also be surprisingly effective, forcing awkward returns and setting up the rally in your favor.
What NOT to Do (And Why)
When I work with beginners, I always say this: “Let’s keep it simple.” Forget the fancy spins or high-risk serves. At this stage, your goal is to build consistency. Trust me—keeping it basic now will pay off big time as you level up.
One common mistake is relying too much on power. Overhitting often results in low-percentage serves or returns that put you on defense. Similarly, serving the same way repeatedly makes you predictable, giving your opponents an edge.
A Quick Progress Check
Set small goals, like landing 8 out of 10 serves during practice. Once you’re consistently hitting 80-90%, you’ll feel ready to own this stage in real matches.
One of the key indicators of success in Stage One is muscle memory. When your serve feels natural and you’re no longer overthinking the motion, you’ve reached an important milestone. This is when you can start experimenting with placement, speed, and strategy while maintaining consistency.
What’s Next?
Mastering the serve is just the start. Once you’ve nailed this, you’ll move on to Stage Two: The Return. By setting up a solid serve, you’re already influencing how the rally unfolds. The next step is learning to capitalize on the return and building toward the critical third shot.
Coming Soon: Master the Game!
This blog series is part of our larger effort to help you master the five stages of pickleball. Stay tuned for updates on our “Mastering the Five Stages of Pickleball” eBook, which will include exclusive drills, tips, and strategies not covered in the blogs. Once available, we’ll add a link here to make sure you don’t miss out!
