How to Hold a Pickleball Paddle Properly [Complete Guide]

Whether you’re stepping onto the pickleball court for the first time or looking to fine-tune your grip, understanding how to hold your paddle correctly is one of the most important fundamentals to get right. It’s not just about comfort—it directly affects your control, accuracy, and power.

Improper grip technique can lead to mishits, weak returns, and even strain on your wrist and elbow. This guide walks through the correct way to hold a pickleball paddle, from foundational grips to subtle adjustments for different shots.

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Starting with the Basic Grip

Most players begin with the continental grip, often referred to as the “handshake grip.” To find it, imagine reaching out to shake hands with the paddle. Your index knuckle should align roughly with the edge of the handle’s top bevel.

This grip offers a balanced foundation, making it easier to perform forehands, backhands, volleys, and dinks without switching hand positions mid-rally.

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Hand Position and Paddle Angle

Your fingers should wrap around the paddle handle firmly but not tightly—think secure, not tense. The thumb and index finger form a loose “V” shape, with the index slightly extended along the back of the paddle handle if that feels more natural.

The paddle face should remain neutral—not tilted forward or backward—unless you’re preparing for a specific type of shot. Keeping the face squared helps promote consistency in your swing path and timing.

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Adjusting Grip Pressure

Grip pressure matters more than most people think. Squeezing the handle too hard can reduce flexibility in your wrist and lead to mishits or slower reactions. On a scale of 1 to 10, aim for around a 4 or 5 during regular play.

During net play or finesse shots, ease up even more to allow for soft touch. For smashes or overheads, a firmer grip is fine—but only temporarily.

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When to Modify Your Grip

As your game develops, there may be moments when a grip change helps you handle specific situations better:

• Eastern grip: Offers extra support on forehands. Rotate your hand slightly so your palm rests more behind the handle.
• Western grip: Rarely used, but can help generate more topspin—usually not ideal for beginners.
• Backhand grip shift: Some players slightly rotate their hand toward the left (for right-handed players) to gain better leverage on backhand drives or volleys.

These changes should be small and purposeful. Constantly switching grips during a rally often leads to poor timing and off-center hits.

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Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

A few habits tend to show up among new players, and most stem from improper paddle handling:

• Thumb wrapped too far around the handle, causing the paddle to twist on contact.
• Fingers squeezed together, limiting hand flexibility and control.
• Paddle held too high or too low, which can disrupt balance and swing motion.

Fixing these often comes down to hand awareness and repetition. Take a moment between points to check your grip. With time, it’ll become second nature.

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Adapting Grip for Different Play Styles

Aggressive players who prefer driving shots from the baseline might favor a slightly firmer hold and lower paddle angle. Defensive players at the net tend to benefit from a more relaxed grip for quicker resets and softer hands.

There’s no one-size-fits-all. Technique evolves based on how you play—but even creative styles are built on a strong, consistent base grip.

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Final Thoughts

Holding a pickleball paddle correctly is one of the few things you can fully control every time you step on the court. It’s a simple detail that sets the tone for everything else in your game—from how the paddle feels in your hand to how confidently you hit the ball.

The best grip is one that gives you control, feels natural, and lets you adjust without overthinking. Start with the basics, stay consistent, and let your feel develop as your skills grow.