One of the biggest mistakes that players make is overplaying shots, including overplaying overheads. Remember, you do not need to hit the overhead as hard as you can. Rather, focus on placement and consistency, which will help you either win points or, at least, regain control over points.

Also, when hitting overheads, consider the following basic placement strategies:

1. Aim for your opponent closest to you, as this is the person with the least amount of time to react to your overhead;

2. Aim for the middle of the court, which will reduce unforced errors and hopefully cause confusion between your opponents;

3. Aim for the Non-Volley Zone or Kitchen Line to avoid unforced errors by hitting beyond the baseline;

4. Aim for your opponents’ paddle-side shoulders, which is a difficult spot for your opponents to return because you will likely “chicken wing” them in a position between their forehand and backhand; and

5. Aim for your opponents’ feet, especially your opponents’ non-paddle-side foot, which is a very difficult shot to return because of how low and out of reach the pickleball will be.

Key Takeaways:

1. Be careful not to overplay your overhead.

2. When hitting your overhead, consider aiming for:

a. Your opponent closest to you;

b. The middle of the court;

c. The Non-Volley Zone or Kitchen Line;

d. Your opponents’ paddle-side shoulders;

e. Your opponents’ feet.