Get Grounded: Master Your Pickleball Groundstrokes

Pickleball is a sport that has basic rules but requires strategy. In pickleball, your goal is to get as near as possible to the net. There's a saying in pickleball that whoever controls the net, controls the pace of the game. Although your goal is to control the pace and own the game, that is also your opponent’s goal. There might be times when they would see an opportunity and force you back to your baseline.  This would get you in defense mode and you will look for openings to transition to offensive play and approach the net. Switching between defensive and offensive in pickleball can be tricky, so you need to strategize.

If you were forced to your baseline, there are ways you can hit the ball to also force your opponent back and make an opening for yourself. One of these is the groundstrokes.

What is the Groundstroke in Pickleball? 

A groundstroke is any shot made after the ball has bounced. Groundstrokes are fairly used shots in pickleball. 

Types of Groundstrokes in Pickleball 

The forehead groundstroke is when the ball bounces on your forehand side (your dominant hand side) and you hit it with your forehand.

• From being in a neutral position, move sideways to where the ball is heading. Avoid reaching.
• Use a continental grip. You can also try other grips like a western or eastern to see which one works for you best. 
• Take a step forward with your front foot facing the ball’s direction for momentum. 
• Once the ball is in front of your body and has bounced, make a backswing and hit the ball.

Opposite to the forehand, the backhand groundstroke is when the ball bounces on your less dominant hand’s side and you have to use your backhand when hitting.

• From being in a neutral position, move sideways to where the ball is heading. Avoid reaching.
• Use a continental grip. You can also try other grips like western or eastern to see which one works for you best. 
• Take a step forward with your front foot facing the ball’s direction for momentum. 
• Once the ball is in front of your body and has bounced, bring your paddle arm across your body. Your other arm can be extended across for balance, held back, or can help your dominant hand in holding the paddle.
• Your wrist and arm should be aligned, with your wrist firm.

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Tips for Doing the Pickleball Groundstroke

• Make short swings and transfer your weight to the ball. 
• Step your left foot or the foot on your non-dominant side forward to reach as far as you can. You can reach as far as you can when hitting the ball, but don’t reach when the ball is far from you. Move towards it.
• For a backhand, your reach is shorter than a forehand. Take a step with your dominant side to be able to reach further.
• Use your other hand for support when doing backhand groundstroke so you won’t reach too far back.
• Hit the ball right after it bounces and don’t wait for it to drop again to generate more power.
• You have to be quick when trying to hit groundstrokes.
• Transfer your weight from your back foot to your front foot when hitting for maximum power.
• Keep on practicing so you can perfect your swings and accuracy. Try out different scenarios and work on what’s hardest for you, whether the forehand or backhand.
• Watch other people play to learn more. You can also watch pro pickleball players like Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters when they’re playing in major tournaments like the PPATour or the Minto US Open Pickleball Championships. You might find playing styles that you can adapt.

Best Pickleball Paddles to Use For the Groundstroke

The pickleball groundstroke requires power, control, and accuracy so you need a paddle that focuses on those areas.

101 Pickleball Infinity Balance

The 101 Pickleball Infinity Balance pickleball paddle combines power and precision, making sure that you have control when hitting a groundstroke.

Try 101 Pickleball’s Infinity Balance pickleball paddle for maximum power and precision on every shot. Order now to unlock your full potential and dominate the court.

Engage Encore Pro

The Engage Encore Pro is another pickleball paddle that combines power and control, ideal for making controlled shots like the groundstroke.

Gamma Micron 5.0

The Gamma pickleball paddle Micron 5.0 has a wide sweet spot and focuses on power without sacrificing control. This is a great paddle to use for a groundstroke.

The groundstroke is a shot you can do from anywhere on the court. It requires you to be quick and make controlled shots. The groundstroke can be tricky and hard to master, especially the backhand groundstroke. With enough practice, you’ll be able to master it in no time.

Mastering Pickleball Groundstrokes: 7 Essential FAQs

1. What is the significance of groundstrokes in pickleball?

   • Groundstrokes are crucial in pickleball as they help maintain control from the baseline, allowing you to transition from defense to offense. Whether you are forced back by a well-placed shot or trying to force your opponent away from the net, effective groundstrokes can dictate the pace of the game. They allow you to hit powerful and strategic shots after the ball bounces, creating openings to move up to the net, which is often the ultimate goal in pickleball strategy.

2. How do forehand and backhand groundstrokes differ in pickleball?

   • The forehand groundstroke is hit on your dominant side, allowing for greater reach and control, while the backhand groundstroke is hit on your non-dominant side and generally requires more technique due to the shorter reach and different body mechanics. A good forehand stroke typically delivers more power, but a well-executed backhand groundstroke adds variety and unpredictability to your game. Backhand shots often need more practice because it’s a less natural motion for many players, but mastering both is essential for maintaining balance and control during rallies.

3. What are the key techniques to improve your groundstroke accuracy and power?

   • To improve groundstroke accuracy and power, start with footwork. Move your body to meet the ball instead of reaching, ensuring you’re in the best position to hit the ball. Use short, controlled swings, and focus on transferring weight from your back foot to your front foot for more power. Keep your wrist firm to avoid losing control. Timing is key—hit the ball right after it bounces rather than letting it drop, as this maximizes your ability to control the shot. Consistent practice will improve both your timing and your ability to make accurate, powerful shots.

4. Why is positioning important in executing effective groundstrokes?

   • In pickleball, positioning is everything. Groundstrokes are most effective when you are properly positioned relative to the ball. Being too close can limit your swing, while being too far forces you to reach, which decreases power and control. The goal is to position yourself so that you can hit the ball after it bounces but before it drops too low. Effective positioning also helps you prepare for the next shot, whether it's transitioning forward to the net or resetting for another defensive groundstroke.

5. What common mistakes should players avoid when hitting groundstrokes?

   • One common mistake is reaching for the ball instead of moving your feet to meet it. Reaching disrupts balance and reduces power. Another frequent error is waiting too long to hit the ball, which results in a weak or misdirected shot. Some players also focus too much on power and neglect control, leading to inconsistent shots. Additionally, many neglect the importance of a good grip. Whether you choose a continental, eastern, or western grip, it’s essential to stick with a grip that feels natural and allows for fluid, controlled swings.

6. What role does the paddle play in enhancing groundstrokes?

   • The paddle you choose can greatly impact your groundstrokes. Paddles with a larger sweet spot provide more forgiveness on off-center hits, while paddles designed for power allow you to hit deeper shots with less effort. A paddle like the 101 Pickleball Infinity Balance combines both power and precision, making it easier to control the ball during groundstrokes. The surface texture of the paddle also matters, as it affects your ability to put spin on the ball, giving you more control and the potential to outmaneuver your opponent.

7. How can players improve their transition from baseline groundstrokes to net play?

   • The transition from baseline to net is a key part of advanced pickleball strategy. After a successful groundstroke that forces your opponent back, the next step is to quickly move toward the net. This requires good anticipation, quick footwork, and balance. A well-executed groundstroke that puts your opponent on the defensive creates the opportunity for you to approach the net and gain control. Practicing split-step footwork can help you prepare for the transition and react quickly to your opponent’s return. Developing a sense of timing—knowing when to move forward—will improve your ability to dominate play at the net.