Advancing to the Kitchen in Pickleball: Don’t Get Stuck!
In pickleball, staying back after your serve return is a rookie mistake. Your partner is already holding down the kitchen line, and it’s your job to join them—fast! The team at the net controls the point, and if you hesitate, your opponents will take full advantage.
Don’t Freeze – Hit and Go!
Your serve return isn’t just about getting the ball over the net—it’s about setting yourself up to control the rally.
In this illustration…
1 – You Froze and Failed to Advance
- The serve is deep, and Player D hesitates after the return, thinking they’re too far back to make it to the kitchen.
- Even though they hit a decent return, their lack of confidence lets the opposing team dictate the point.
2 – Your Opponents Take the Advantage
- Spotting the hesitation, your opponents drive the third shot hard and deep.
- They advance to the kitchen line, leaving you stuck and scrambling to defend.
Lesson: If you don’t advance, you’re giving away the point.
How to Avoid Freezing
Here’s the golden rule: Let your momentum carry you forward as you hit your return.
- Mental Cue: Think, “Hit it and go.” Don’t overanalyze—just move.
- Know the Rules: Remember, your opponent can’t hit the third shot until it bounces, so you have time to get to the kitchen.
When Staying Back is the Exception
While advancing is almost always the right move, there are moments when staying back is your best bet:
If Your Return is Short
- A short return invites your opponent to drive the ball aggressively.
- Defensive Play: Hold your ground, get low, and prepare to block or return the shot.
Key Tip: Staying back should only happen when absolutely necessary. Focus on hitting deep, lofted returns that give you the time to advance confidently.
Summary: Hit It and Go!
Advancing to the kitchen line is non-negotiable if you want to dominate in pickleball.
Here’s what to remember:
- Make It a Habit: A deep, lofted return gives you time to move up.
- Use Your Momentum: Follow through naturally to get to the kitchen quickly.
- Be Smart: Stay back only if your return is short and your opponent is driving a shot at you before you get to the kitchen.
Control the kitchen, control the game. The next time you’re on the court, remember: “Hit it and go!”
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