How to Serve in Pickleball: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

I still remember my first week playing pickleball. I walked onto the court, confident from my tennis days, and immediately got called out for an "illegal serve." I was hitting it too high, too hard, and apparently, my foot was crossing the line. It was embarrassing.

Here’s the truth: The serve is the only shot in pickleball that you have 100% control over. You don't have to react to a spinny dink or a smash. It's just you and the ball. Yet, so many beginners waste this opportunity by either faulting or popping up a weak meatball for their opponents to crush.

In this guide, I’m going to walk you through exactly how to serve legally, consistently, and effectively. No jargon, just what works.

1. The Golden Rules of Serving (Don't Get Called Out!)

Unlike tennis where you can toss the ball up and smash it, pickleball requires an underhand serve. The goal originally was just to put the ball in play, but modern players have turned it into a weapon.

If you are doing a traditional Volley Serve (hitting the ball out of the air), you must follow these three rules to avoid a fault:

• The Upward Arc: Your arm must be moving in an upward arc when you hit the ball. No side-arm swipes allowed.
• Below the Waist: The contact point (where paddle meets ball) must be below your navel.
• Paddle Head Down: The highest part of your paddle head must be below the highest part of your wrist when you hit the ball.

Confused? Don't worry. There is an easier way called the "Drop Serve" which we will cover in a second.

For a full breakdown of all court rules, check out my Complete Beginner's Guide to Pickleball.

2. Volley Serve vs. Drop Serve: Which is Better?

The Volley Serve (Traditional)

This is what you see most pros doing. You toss the ball slightly and hit it before it touches the ground.

• Pros: You can generate more power and spin because you are hitting the ball on its way down.
• Cons: It requires better timing. Plus, you have to worry about those strict "below the waist" rules I mentioned above.

The Drop Serve (The Beginner's Cheat Code)

In 2021, pickleball introduced the "Provisional Drop Serve," and it changed everything for beginners. You simply drop the ball, let it bounce, and then hit it.

• Pros: NO restrictions on arm motion or contact height. You can slice it, chop it, or hit it however you want (as long as you don't throw the ball down with force).
• Cons: It's harder to hit a deep, driving power serve off a bounce.

My Advice: If you are just starting and struggling to get the ball in, switch to the Drop Serve immediately. It removes the stress of timing and lets you focus on your swing.

3. Step-by-Step Technique for a Consistent Serve

Step 1: The Stance

Stand behind the baseline. Do not touch the line! I like to keep my feet shoulder-width apart. If you are right-handed, put your left foot slightly forward.

Step 2: The Routine

Develop a pre-serve routine. Bounce the ball twice, take a deep breath, visualize where you want the ball to go. This calms your nerves. Rushing is the #1 cause of faults.

Step 3: The Swing (Bowling Motion)

Think of bowling a ball. Your arm should be loose.
1. Bring the paddle back comfortably.
2. Step forward with your opposite foot.
3. Swing through the ball in a smooth, lifting motion.
4. Follow through! Your paddle should finish over your opposite shoulder.

4. Where to Aim? (Strategy 101)

Stop trying to hit the lines. You aren't playing in the PPA Tour finals yet. Your goal is Depth over Power.

A short serve is a gift to your opponent. It lets them step up to the Kitchen line easily. A deep serve forces them back.

The Target: Aim for the middle of the service box, about 2-3 feet from the baseline. This is the "Safe Zone." Even if you miss slightly, it's still in.

Pro Tip: Once you get consistent, try aiming for your opponent's backhand (usually their weaker side). For most right-handed players, this means aiming to your left.

5. Does Your Paddle Matter?

Technique is 90% of the battle, but gear does help. If you are using a cheap wooden paddle, you'll struggle to get consistent depth.

• Struggling with Control? Look for a paddle with a large "sweet spot" and a honeycomb core. The Pro Carbon Honeycomb is excellent for placing the ball exactly where you want it.
• Need More Power? If your serves are landing short, a heavier paddle or one with a fiberglass face like the AeroDrive Performance can give you that extra "pop" from the baseline.

Make sure you also have proper court shoes. Serving involves a weight transfer, and running shoes lack the stability you need.

Carrying your gear to the court? Keep your hands free and your paddles safe with our new Urban Sling Bags. Perfect for a quick game at the local park.

Conclusion

Don't overcomplicate it. The best serve is the one that goes IN. Start with the Drop Serve to build confidence. Aim for the middle of the box. Once you can hit 10/10 serves in play, then you can start adding speed and spin.

See you on the court!