Great Day, Lykkers! Pickleball has rapidly become one of the most popular sports in the world, drawing in players from all ages and backgrounds. Its easy-to-learn nature and fun gameplay make it accessible for beginners, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its challenges.

For those new to the game, it can be overwhelming to get a handle on the rules, strategies, and skills needed to compete. It’s easy to make mistakes, but the key to improving is recognizing them early.

Whether you're playing for fitness, fun, or competition, avoiding these common pitfalls will help you level up faster and get the most out of your pickleball experience!

1. Over-hitting the Ball: Power Doesn’t Always Win

One of the most common mistakes new pickleball players make is trying to blast the ball with every swing. The smaller, slower ball may seem like it should be powered through, but power often leads to mistakes. Over-hitting results in the ball flying out of bounds or into the net. Instead, focus on control and precision. The most successful pickleball players know when to use finesse, especially on the softer shots like volleys. Power should be used sparingly and strategically—there’s no need to go all out on every shot.

2. Neglecting Court Positioning: The ‘Kitchen’ Is Your Friend

One of the simplest yet critical mistakes new players make is poor court positioning, particularly when it comes to the non-volley zone, often referred to as the “kitchen.” Standing too far behind the baseline makes it harder to respond to softer shots and puts you at a disadvantage when your opponent approaches the net. Mastering court positioning means staying just behind the kitchen line when possible. By staying closer to the net, players can effectively shorten the rally and dictate the pace of the game.

3. Ignoring the Serve: Not Just a Starting Point

The serve might seem like a straightforward part of the game, but it’s often one of the most underutilized opportunities for new players. A poor serve or a lazy one can immediately put you on the defensive. The key to a great serve lies in consistency and variation. Serve deep to push your opponent back, or mix up your placement with angled serves to make it harder for them to return. Additionally, a well-placed serve can help you set up your next shot, allowing you to start the rally with a strategic advantage.

4. Not Reading Your Opponent’s Shots: Anticipation Is Key

New players often react instead of anticipating, which makes it much harder to be in the right spot when the ball comes their way. Instead of just focusing on the ball, experienced players focus on reading the body language of their opponents. Is your opponent preparing to hit a soft, or are they about to smash it? By analyzing their position and swing, you can predict their next move and position yourself accordingly.

5. Not Mastering the Soft Shot: Precision Over Power

The soft shot may seem simple, but it’s one of the most technical maneuvers in pickleball. Beginners often make the mistake of trying to hit it too hard or using the wrong technique. This shot is all about control and placement, not force. A well-executed soft shot requires a gentle touch, letting the ball land just over the net in the opponent’s non-volley zone, which often forces them to make an error. Players who overlook this shot miss out on a crucial element of pickleball strategy. Mastering this skill can greatly improve your game and give you more control at the net.

6. Failing to Communicate in Doubles: Teamwork Over Solo Play

In doubles, communication is everything, yet many new players fail to coordinate properly with their partner. Whether it's calling shots, managing the middle of the court, or signaling which side to cover, poor communication can lead to missed opportunities and confusion. A simple “mine” or “you” can prevent both players from going for the same ball, while discussing strategies between points helps ensure everyone is on the same page.

7. Overlooking Footwork: You Can’t Hit What You Can’t Reach

Good footwork is the foundation of every successful pickleball play. New players often neglect the importance of positioning their feet properly, leading to off-balance shots or reaching for the ball rather than stepping into it. Proper footwork allows you to get into the correct position faster, set up for a better shot, and react quicker. Strong footwork can help you recover quickly from a bad shot and get back into position for the next play.

Pickleball is a game of precision, strategy, and continual learning. Mistakes are part of the journey, but with awareness and practice, you can avoid the most common pitfalls that hinder progress. Every player goes through these challenges, but the great ones learn how to turn these mistakes into opportunities for improvement. Take your time, be patient with your growth, and soon, the game will feel second nature!