Pickleball Strategy and Playing Styles: A Guide for Absolute Beginners…

The kitchen, or non-volley zone, is the area within 7 feet of the net. You cannot hit the ball in this zone unless it bounces first, so staying out of it gives you better control and forces your opponent to hit higher balls, which are easier to attack.

Pickleball, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has captivated players of all ages. For beginners, understanding the basic strategies and playing styles can help elevate your game and make playing more enjoyable. Whether you’re new to the sport or just starting to get serious, this guide will introduce you to essential pickleball strategies and playing styles.

1. Basic Strategies

One of the most fundamental strategies in pickleball is the dink shot. This soft, controlled shot is executed just over the net and forces your opponent to make a difficult return. Dinking is typically used to set up more aggressive shots and create openings for an attack.

Another critical tactic is maintaining the “kitchen” zone. The kitchen, or non-volley zone, is the area within 7 feet of the net. You cannot hit the ball in this zone unless it bounces first, so staying out of it gives you better control and forces your opponent to hit higher balls, which are easier to attack.

2. Playing Styles

Pickleball players generally adopt one of three playing styles: Aggressive, Defensive, or All-Around.

Aggressive players focus on putting pressure on their opponents by hitting powerful shots and attacking as soon as possible. They often look for opportunities to hit smashes or drop shots.
Defensive players excel at patience and consistency. They prefer to return balls with precision, forcing their opponents to make mistakes. Defensive players tend to excel in rallies and work on positioning.
All-around players have a balanced approach, mixing both offense and defense. They are adaptable and can switch between aggressive and defensive strategies based on the flow of the game.

3. Positioning and Communication

Good positioning and communication with your partner (if playing doubles) are key to success. Always keep your paddle ready and stay alert, especially for fast volleys. Communicate with your partner to avoid confusion and maintain a strong team dynamic.

Mastering these basic strategies and styles will give you a solid foundation as you continue to grow in the game of pickleball!