The drive shot is the most common and natural shot in pickleball and is the first stroke you will use regularly when you step on the court. A drive shot in pickleball is a powerful and fast shot. It’s used to apply pressure and force a defensive return.
Drive Shot Preferred Grip
Eastern Forehand Grip. Power, control and topspin.
Stance and Preparation
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Your dominant foot should be slightly back to allow for a full swing.
- Turn your body sideways to the net, with your non-dominant shoulder facing the target.
- Keep your knees slightly bent and maintain a low center of gravity for stability and power.
Swing Technique for the Drive Shot
- Take your paddle back, keeping it at waist level. Your paddle face should be slightly closed (tilted forward) to help keep the ball low.
- If you are using the Eastern Forehand grip your paddle will already be closed slightly and positioned well, otherwise adjust by turning your wrist slightly.
- Shift your weight from your back foot to your front foot as you swing forward. This transfer helps generate power.
- Contact the ball in front of your body. The paddle should be moving in a forward and slightly upward direction.
- Follow through with your swing, extending your paddle towards the target.
- Your paddle should finish high, and your dominant shoulder should rotate through the shot.
Key Points to Remember
Keep your eyes on the ball throughout the swing to ensure clean contact.
Focus on generating power through your legs and core, not just your arm. Maintain control by keeping your swing smooth and controlled.
Keep the paddle face slightly closed to drive the ball low and fast.
Keep Learning
- Watch the Ben Johns video below on execution of the Pickleball drive shot.
- Read the post on Pickleball Paddle Grips – Continental and Eastern Grips.
- Read the post in the Third Shot series on the Third Shot Drive.
Video on the Pickleball Drive Shot
Courtesy of Ben Johns and Lifetime Pickleball
Watch this video on the Pickleball Drive Shot on Youtube.
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