The 5 Most Common Mistakes New Pickleball Players Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Summary
Pickleball is fun, fast-paced, and easy to learn—but beginners often fall into a few common traps. In this article, we highlight the top 5 mistakes new players make and give simple tips to help you improve quickly and enjoy the game even more.
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Standing Too Close to the Baseline After Serving
The mistake: After serving, many beginners stay at the baseline, waiting for the next shot.
Why it matters: Most rallies are won near the net. Staying back leaves you vulnerable to drops and dinks.
Quick fix: After serving, move forward quickly and get ready to transition to the kitchen line (non-volley zone).
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Volleying While Standing Inside the Kitchen
The mistake: Hitting the ball in the air while standing inside the kitchen is a fault—and it’s surprisingly common.
Why it matters: This rule prevents overly aggressive net play and keeps the game strategic.
Quick fix: Step out of the kitchen before volleying. You can enter the kitchen to hit a bounce, but not an airborne shot.
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Using a Tennis Grip or Swing
The mistake: Many players with a tennis background use long, looping swings and tight grips.
Why it matters: Pickleball rewards short, compact movements and a relaxed wrist. Overpowering usually backfires.
Quick fix: Use a continental grip, keep your swings short, and focus on ball control over power.
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Forgetting the Two-Bounce Rule
The mistake: Trying to volley too early—before the ball bounces once on each side.
Why it matters: This rule gives both teams a fair chance to react after the serve.
Quick fix: Let the serve bounce, and then let your return bounce once on the opponent’s side before volleying.
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Hitting Too Hard on Every Shot
The mistake: Many beginners think power = points. They swing hard on every shot, causing unforced errors.
Why it matters: Pickleball is a game of finesse, control, and patience—not brute strength.
Quick fix: Focus on ball placement, soft shots, and controlled rallies. Use power selectively and strategically.
Conclusion: Play Smarter, Not Harder
Pickleball is incredibly welcoming for new players, but avoiding these common mistakes can help you improve faster, have more fun, and win more games. At Joysent, we believe the right gear—and the right mindset—can make a world of difference.
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