How to Hit a Pickleball Drive Shot: Tips and Tricks

If you're into pickleball these days, mastering a pickleball drive shot is a must-have skill in your game! The pickleball drive shot is all about hitting the ball with power and precision, sending it low and fast across the net to keep your opponents on their toes. 

Today, we will explore how to hit a drive shot in pickleball, and when to use the third drive shot effectively. By mastering the drive shot, players can add variety to their game and take control of their matches.

What is a Drive Shot in Pickleball?

A drive shot in pickleball is a fast, low shot typically hit from the baseline or midcourt, aimed at forcing opponents into a defensive position or preventing an aggressive return. Unlike softer shots like dinks or drops, drive shots require power, precise technique, and good timing. 

Often used in rallies to maintain offensive pressure, the drive shot helps keep opponents from advancing to the net, where they can control the point. It’s also a key component of the third-shot strategy, which involves either driving the ball or hitting a soft drop to maintain control of the rally.

How to Hit a Drive Shot in Pickleball

Hitting a drive shot requires solid mechanics, proper positioning, and the right grip and swing motion. Let’s break down the key steps to hitting a successful drive shot in pickleball:

1. Grip and Stance

To hit an effective drive shot in pickleball, start with the proper grip and stance. The continental grip provides versatility for both forehand and backhand shots while maintaining power and control. 

For stance, keep your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and distribute your weight evenly with a slight forward lean. As the ball nears, step into the shot with your dominant foot to build momentum.

2. Positioning and Footwork

Good footwork is crucial for driving the ball in pickleball. Quickly move to where the ball will bounce and position yourself for either a forehand or backhand shot. 

Step into the shot with your front foot while rotating your body slightly, using your legs and torso to generate power, rather than just relying on your arms. Keep your paddle in a ready position with both hands, allowing for quick adjustments. 

3. Swing and Follow-Through

To execute a drive shot in pickleball, use a low-to-high swing motion to lift the ball over the net while keeping it low enough to put your opponents on the defensive. 

Angle your paddle slightly upward to generate lift, but avoid sending the ball too high to prevent an easy return. 

When making contact, fully extend your arm and follow through smoothly to maintain both power and accuracy. Keep your wrist firm to avoid uncontrolled flicks, ensuring a solid, controlled shot.

4. Timing and Contact Point

Timing is key to a successful drive shot. Aim to contact the ball at waist height or slightly below to control both the trajectory and power. Hitting too early or too late can lead to weak or inaccurate shots, giving opponents an advantage. 

Striking the ball in front of your body ensures better power and accuracy, helping you control the shot's speed and direction, making it harder for opponents to return effectively.

How To Drive the Ball with Power?

To add power to your pickleball drive shot, start by using your legs, bending your knees, and transferring your weight from your back foot to your front foot as you swing, creating momentum. 

Engage your core by rotating your torso during the swing, ensuring your whole body contributes to the shot's power. A full follow-through is essential for maintaining power and accuracy, extend your arm and completing the motion after contact. 

Keep a firm, but not overly tight, grip on the paddle for better control and strength during the shot.

When to Hit the 3rd Drive Shot

The third shot in pickleball, which occurs after the pickleball serve and the return, is a critical moment in any rally. Here’s when you should opt for a third drive shot:

1. When Your Opponents Are at the Baseline

If your opponents remain deep after their return, hitting a drive shot can keep them pinned back, preventing them from moving forward and taking control of the net. 

A well-placed drive shot can force them to make a defensive return, allowing you and your partner to gain the advantage.

2. When You Have a Weak Return

If your opponent’s return and it bounces high, a third drive shot is an excellent opportunity to attack and capitalize on their weak positioning.

3. When You’re Confident in Your Power Game

If you feel comfortable driving the ball with accuracy and power, the third drive shot can be a weapon in your arsenal. It allows you to stay aggressive and apply pressure early in the rally.

How’s Your Pickleball Drive Shot?

Pickleball has been trending like crazy these days, and if you want to take your drive shot skills to the next level, Rockstar Academy’s Sports & Performing Arts Academy is the perfect place! 

Our pickleball class is designed to help players grow, with a curriculum that offers opportunities to compete in exciting events like RockOlympics and Elite Championships. 

Plus, you can try out a free trial class before signing up, so you can experience the fun and growth firsthand. Get ready to smash it on the court with Rockstar Academy!

FAQ

What is the purpose of a drive shot in pickleball? 

The purpose of a drive shot is to hit the ball with power and speed, forcing your opponents into a defensive position or creating an opportunity for you to gain the upper hand in a rally.

When should I use a drive shot? 

Use a drive shot when you want to apply pressure on your opponents, especially if they are positioned deep in the court or after a weak return.