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How to Improve Your Pickleball Serve

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Fri, Jul 4, 2025

Read in 2 minutes

Why the Serve Matters ?

The serve isn’t just how you start the point ,it’s how you set the tone. A great serve can throw your opponent off, buy you time, and open up the court for your next shot.

At Pickleball Qube, we always say:

“A consistent serve is better than a flashy one. Consistency wins games.”

The Basics, Start Here

Stance

Position yourself just behind the baseline.Keep your feet shoulder-width apart for balance.Lean forward slightly it helps with timing and control.
And most importantly, stay relaxed. No need to serve like a statue.

Grip

Go for the continental grip like you’re shaking hands with your paddle. Keep the paddle face neutral, not angled up or down. Hold it with a relaxed grip. Too tight, and you’ll lose feel and fluidity.

Swing

Your serve must be underhand, that’s non-negotiable. Make contact below your waist, and keep the paddle head lower than your wrist at the point of impact.Think smooth and controlled over hard and aggressive. Let your whole body guide the motion, not just your arm.

Types of Serves to Try

  1. Power Serve
    Fast and deep. Puts pressure on the return.
  2. Spin Serve
    Adds a twist. Makes the bounce harder to read.
  3. Lob Serve
    High and deep. Good for slowing things down.
  4. Short Serve
    Just clears the kitchen. Great surprise weapon.

 Bonus Tip: Switching it up keeps your opponent guessing ,and guessing is losing.

Practice That Actually Works

  • Serve 20–30 balls with perfect form
  • Use cones or spots to aim
  • Alternate serve styles
  • Track how many land where you want

Reps > random. Every pro was once a beginner with a bucket of balls.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

  • Tossing too high
  • Stepping over the baseline
  • Rushing your motion
  • Using only your arm
  • Holding the paddle like it owes you money

Stay calm. Stay smooth. Keep it clean

Level Up at Pickleball Qube

Want to get serious about your serve? Come train at Pickleball Qube  in Mohali , whether you’re new or leveling up, we’ve got the space, the vibe, and the people to help you grow.

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