Grasp the Game || The Art of Holding a Pickleball Paddle

Introduction

As pickleball continues to rise in popularity, beginners and even seasoned players may often find themselves asking, “What is the correct way to hold a pickleball paddle?” Though it might seem elementary, the manner in which you grip your paddle can drastically influence the control, accuracy, and power of your shots. This article will guide you through the process of holding a pickleball paddle correctly to enhance your performance on the court.

Understanding the Pickleball Grip

The pickleball grip might appear simple at first glance, but it’s the foundation of your game. A proper grip improves paddle control, offers better shot accuracy, and reduces the risk of injuries, such as “pickleball elbow”. There are various grips employed by pickleball players, but the two most commonly used are the Eastern grip and the Continental grip. You may also read other pickleball Articles: How To Practice Pickleball Alone

The Eastern Grip

Ideal for beginners, the Eastern grip is simple to adopt and provides a good level of control, making it suitable for delivering groundstrokes.

To assume an Eastern grip

• Open your hand and place the paddle’s handle such that its flat side aligns with the inside of your palm.
• Wrap your fingers around the handle, leaving the index finger slightly apart to act as a ‘guide finger’.
• The base knuckle of your index finger should align with the third edge of your paddle handle, giving a handshake-like grip.
• Keep your grip relaxed to facilitate wrist movement for wider shot variety.

The Continental Grip

Often used by intermediate or advanced players, the Continental grip allows for a wider range of shots, including slices, spins, and dinks. Must Read: Converting A Tennis Court Into A Pickleball Court

To assume a Continental grip

• Position the paddle as if you were holding a Pickleball Paddle or an axe, with the edge of the paddle handle lining up with the base knuckle of your index finger.
• Wrap your fingers around the handle, and just like the Eastern grip, keep the index finger slightly away as a ‘guide finger’.
• Ensure a relaxed grip to prevent arm fatigue and facilitate swift changes in paddle face direction.

Grip Pressure

Regardless of the type of grip you use, it’s important to maintain a light grip pressure. Gripping the paddle too tightly can lead to arm fatigue and restrict wrist movement, affecting the variety of shots you can play. A rule of thumb is to grip the paddle as if you were holding a bird: firmly enough to keep it from flying away, but gently enough not to hurt it.

Conclusion

The way you holding a Pickleball Paddle can significantly influence your gameplay. The right grip allows you to have better control of your paddle, enables you to execute a wide variety of shots, and helps prevent potential injuries. Whether you’re more comfortable with an Eastern grip or a Continental grip, the key is to ensure your hold is relaxed and comfortable. As you continue to refine your grip and experiment with different Holding a Pickleball Paddle styles, you’re on your way to enhancing your pickleball prowess.

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