Before your opponents hit the serve, make sure you (1) are in Tennis Ready; (2) are in the proper position a step behind the baseline; and (3) do a small split step to prepare to react and move to hit the return of serve. At first, keep your return of serves simple (in other words, use a short backswing and aim in the middle of your opponents’ side of the pickleball court). Consistency is key when are on the pickleball courts, which is especially true on the return of serves because an error on the return of serve results in a point to your opponents. As your return of serves become more proficient, you can strive for more power, more spin, and more advanced placement.

To strike a simple return of serve:

1. Start in Tennis Ready in the proper position on the pickleball court with a small split step.

2. Take a short backswing with a small rotation of your upper body. This is true whether you are hitting a forehand or backhand return of serve.

3. Move your feet to position yourself to hit the return of serve with your forehand. If you are unable to run around the pickleball to hit a forehand, do not panic; prepare to hit a backhand return of serve.

4. Make contact with the pickleball out in front of your body.

5. Finish with a compact follow through in front of your body without finishing or coming across your body with your paddle.

Keep your return of serves simple at first to ensure that your return of serve is within the lines of the pickleball court.

Key Takeaways:

1. To hit a return of serve:

a. Start in Tennis Ready behind the baseline and with a small split step;

b. Take a short backswing;

c. Move your feet to position yourself to strike your return of serve;

d. Strike the pickleball out in front of your body; and

e. Finish with a compact follow through out in front of your body.

2. Keep your return of serves simple at first to ensure that your return of serve is within the lines of the pickleball court.