Advancing to the Kitchen in Pickleball: The Art of Closing the Gap
In pickleball, getting to the kitchen isn’t just important—it’s essential. Your partner is already at the line, holding down the fort, and it’s your job to join them as quickly as possible. Staying back is like waving a white flag to your opponents, handing them the advantage.
Let’s talk about how to make a beeline for the kitchen line and what to do if things don’t go as planned.
Player Movement: Getting to the Kitchen
Imagine this: you’ve just returned the serve, the ball is floating through the air, and your opponents are waiting for it to bounce before launching their third shot. What should you be doing?
Move Forward with Momentum
- Let your body’s natural follow-through carry you toward the net after hitting the ball.
- Use a split step to stabilize before your return, then transfer your weight forward for added power—and a head start toward the kitchen.
Timing is Everything
Your goal is to reach the kitchen line before your opponents hit their third shot. This puts you in the best position to volley or block, keeping them on the defensive.
Why Staying Back is a No-Go
In pickleball, staying back after your serve return is practically an invitation for your opponents to take control. Here’s why:
- The Kitchen Advantage: The team at the net controls the game. By advancing quickly, you maintain the defensive edge and force your opponents into tougher shots.
- Ready for Anything: Once you’re at the kitchen line, plant yourself and prepare to block or volley any third shot that comes your way.
Dealing with a Bad Serve Return
We all have off moments, and sometimes your serve return isn’t as deep as you’d like. If your return is short, here’s what to do:
Stay Cautious
- If you can’t make it to the kitchen before your opponents hit the ball, advance cautiously.
- Watch for signs your opponent is gearing up for a drive, such as forward movement and a big backswing.
Prepare for the Drive
- Lower into a defensive stance and get ready to block or return their shot.
- Avoid popping up the ball—this gives them an easy attack. Instead, stay calm and controlled.
When to Let the Ball Go
Experienced players know when to play a drive shot hit at them when to step aside. Here’s a tip:
- Spot the Overhit: If your opponent’s shot is too powerful and lacks topspin, it’s likely to sail out of bounds. Learn to recognize these moments and resist the urge to swing at everything.
- Key Indicators: Look for the ball’s trajectory and height relative to the net. If it’s at or below net height when struck with too much power, there’s a good chance it’s going out.
Summary: The Kitchen is King
Getting to the kitchen line after your serve return isn’t just good strategy—it’s a game-changer.
Here’s what to remember:
- Move with Purpose: Use your return’s momentum to advance quickly and join your partner.
- Don’t Stay Back: The kitchen line is where you win points—don’t let your opponents take that space.
- Handle Mistakes Wisely: If your return is short, stay alert and prepare for an aggressive response.
- Let It Go: Recognize when an overhit ball is sailing out of bounds and avoid unnecessary swings.
With practice, you’ll make advancing to the kitchen second nature. And once you’re there, your opponents will know they’re in for a fight.
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Keep Learning:
- Check out the video 🎥 below on the return of serve.
- Continue exploring the series with the next post: Advancing to the Kitchen in Pickleball – Hit It and Go!
🎥Video Showing Hitting the Return and Transferring Weight Forward
Video courtesy of “The Art of Pickleball”
Watch this Serve Return Video on Youtube.