Lesson 5: Basic Strategy and Beginner Tips

Now that you know the rules, here are practical strategies to start playing well. **Get to the kitchen line:** Controlling the area just behind the NVZ line gives you a strong court position. Most experienced players aim to move forward and play from there. **Use the Two-Bounce Rule to your advantage:** - As the **returner**, hit a deep return to push the serving team back and give yourself time to advance toward the kitchen. - As the **serving team**, let the return bounce before moving forward. **Serve tips:** - Aim your serve **deep** into the service court to keep your opponent far from the net. - Always stay **behind the baseline** and use the required **underhand motion**. **Avoid kitchen mistakes:** - Never step into the kitchen to volley — this is one of the most common beginner faults. - You **can** enter the kitchen after the ball bounces there. **General beginner tips:** - Keep shots **low over the net** at the center (only 34 inches high) to reduce errors. - **Call the score** before every serve to stay organized, especially in doubles. - Focus on **consistency** over power — winning by 2 points rewards patient, steady play. Most importantly, have fun — pickleball is meant to be enjoyed by players of all skill levels!