Top 5 Mistakes Beginners Make in Pickleball (and How to Fix Them!)

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and for good reason—it’s easy to learn, incredibly fun, and a great way to stay active. But if you’re just getting started, you might be making some common mistakes that can hold back your progress. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

Below, we’ll break down the top five mistakes beginners make in pickleball and, more importantly, how to fix them. Plus, we’ll show you how MAS POW paddles can help eliminate some of these issues so you can play better, faster.

1. Gripping the Paddle Too Tight

The Mistake: Many beginners hold the paddle too tightly, thinking it will give them more control. In reality, this reduces flexibility, limits power, and leads to fatigue.

The Fix: Hold the paddle with a relaxed grip, similar to a handshake. This allows for smoother wrist action, better shot placement, and less strain on your hand and arm.

How MAS POW Helps: MAS POW paddles come with comfortable, cushioned grips that reduce strain and allow for a natural feel, making it easier to maintain the right grip pressure.

2. Standing Too Close to the Net

The Mistake: New players often hover too close to the kitchen (non-volley zone), making them vulnerable to lobs and fast-paced shots aimed at their feet.

The Fix: Stand just behind the kitchen line and stay light on your feet. This gives you enough space to react to different shots while still maintaining a strong position at the net.

3. Ignoring the Soft Game

The Mistake: Many beginners rely too much on power, trying to smash every shot. While slams are exciting, pickleball is a game of finesse, and well-placed dinks and drop shots can be far more effective.

The Fix: Practice soft shots like dinks and third-shot drops. These help you control the pace of the game and force your opponent into making mistakes.

How MASPOW Helps: The balanced weight and responsive core of MAS POW paddles make it easier to execute controlled dinks and drop shots with precision.

4. Using the Wrong Paddle

The Mistake: Playing with a paddle that’s too heavy, too light, or made of low-quality materials can make a huge difference in your performance.

The Fix: Choose a paddle that matches your playing style. A good paddle should provide a mix of power, control, and comfort.

How MASPOW Helps: MAS POW paddles are designed with a perfect balance of power and control, giving you the edge whether you’re attacking or defending. Plus, the premium materials ensure durability and consistent performance.

5. Poor Footwork

The Mistake: Beginners often stand flat-footed or fail to move efficiently, making it difficult to reach shots and maintain a strong position on the court.

The Fix: Stay on the balls of your feet, keep your knees slightly bent, and always be ready to adjust your positioning. Quick, small steps will help you react faster to your opponent’s shots.

Final Thoughts

Mistakes are part of the learning process, but fixing them early can give you a huge advantage in pickleball. By focusing on better grip, smarter positioning, mastering the soft game, using the right paddle, and improving footwork, you’ll see improvements fast!

And if you’re looking for a paddle that can help eliminate these common problems, check out our MAS POW paddles.