The 5 Most Common Beginner Mistakes in Pickleball (And How to Avoid Them)
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in Singapore, and it's easy to see why. It's accessible, fast-paced, and incredibly fun. But like any sport, beginners often make a few key mistakes that can slow down their progress and enjoyment. Whether you're just getting started or looking to level up your game, here are five of the most common beginner mistakes in pickleball — and how to avoid them.
⚠️ 1. Standing Too Far Back After Serving
Many beginners hit their serve and then hang out near the baseline. Big mistake. In pickleball, controlling the net is key. Staying back puts you on defense and makes you late to react to dinks or volleys.
✅ Fix: After serving, move up quickly just behind the non-volley zone ("the kitchen") to gain court control.
⚠️ 2. Ignoring the Kitchen Rule
The kitchen (or non-volley zone) is a 7-foot area on both sides of the net. You can't volley (hit without bouncing) while standing in it. Beginners often forget this, leading to easy faults.
✅ Fix: Get comfortable with soft dinks and stay just behind the line when volleying.
⚠️ 3. Gripping the Paddle Too Tightly
White-knuckling your paddle kills your finesse and adds tension to your shots. It also tires you out faster.
✅ Fix: Relax your grip. Think of it like holding a pen or chopsticks. The Öne Paddle by Evöq features a soft, sweat-resistant white grip that makes it easier to hold comfortably, even during long rallies.
⚠️ 4. Overhitting Everything
Beginners love to swing big and smash every shot. But pickleball rewards precision over power. Overhitting leads to outs, faults, and missed opportunities.
✅ Fix: Focus on placement, especially in the early game. Control the ball and set up your partner.
⚠️ 5. Carrying the Wrong Gear (or None at All)
Showing up with a cheap OEM paddle and no proper bag? You’ll feel it on court. Poor paddle balance and no gear organisation = distraction.
✅ Fix: Invest in quality gear that supports your game. The Evöq Öne Paddle offers balanced weight and smooth handling, while the Evöq Rally Bag carries all your essentials in a clean, minimalist sling with paddle, bottle, and towel space.
✨ Final Tip: Progress Happens Fast
Pickleball is a game of movement, mindfulness, and momentum. The more you play, the better you get. Avoid these beginner pitfalls early and you’ll fast-track your improvement.
Want gear that keeps up with your progress? Join the movement at evoq.club and explore our Serve Series 001 collection.
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