Less Swing, More Control: Mastering the Pickleball Volley

If you’re new to pickleballor still figuring out what all the shots mean, let’s clear something up right away:

A volley in pickleball is when you hit the ball out of the air before it bounces. It usually happens up at the net (especially near the non-volley zone, or “kitchen”), and it’s a huge part of controlling fast-paced points.

Here’s what most beginners do wrong:
❌ They swing too much
❌ They flick their wrist
❌ They grip the paddle too tightly
❌ They don’t get the paddle out in front

The result? Pop-ups, missed shots, and frustration.

In this article, I’ll show you how to fix all of that with simple, repeatable techniques. Whether you’re just getting started or trying to clean up your net game, these volley basics will help you play better right away.

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What Is a Volley in Pickleball?

Let’s keep it simple. A volley is a shot you hit out of the air, before the ball bounces.

You’ll hit volleys:

• When you’re at the net (right behind the non-volley zone)

• During fast exchanges, there’s no time to let the ball bounce

• To keep pressure on your opponents and finish points

Unlike groundstrokes (where you swing from the baseline), volleys are all about control, not power. The swing is much shorter and more compact.

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Start with the Right Grip: The Continental Grip

The best grip for volleys is called the continental grip. Think of it as your all-purpose grip for anything quick up at the net.

Here’s how to find it:

• Hold the paddle like you’re shaking hands with it.

• Your index knuckle and the heel of your palm should land on the second bevel of the handle (if it were shaped like an octagon).

• Your paddle face should feel slightly open (tilted up just a bit).

Why does this grip work so well?
It lets you move to both the forehand and backhand volleys more quickly
It keeps your paddle stable through contact
You don’t need to switch grips mid-point

Beginner tip: If the paddle feels awkward or unstable, check your grip. Most mistakes at the net start in the hand.

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Get Your Wrist and Arm in the Right Position

Wrist

• Keep your wrist firm but relaxed.

• You don’t want a floppy wrist or a super stiff one.

• Think of your paddle and forearm as one unit.

Wrist flicks create pop-ups and wild shots. Instead, hold steady and guide the paddle using your shoulder.

Arm & Paddle Position

• Keep your paddle out in front of your body, between chest and shoulder height.

• Your paddle elbow should be slightly bent and in front of your body. Not touching your body or down at your side.

• Your movement should start from your shoulder, not your hand or elbow.

💡 Beginner reminder: The paddle should stay in front of your chest like a steering wheel, not off to one side or behind your body.

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How to Hit a Punch Volley

Most volleys come to your backhand side.

Try this:

• Keep your shoulders facing the net or think about being parallel to the non volley zone line.

• The shoulder moves the paddle. Imagine the paddle moving forward through 4 imaginary pickleball balls.

• Your wrist stays firm and neutral.

• Keep the motion short and powered by your shoulder.

Beginners often use their wrists and try to flick the ball. Keep it steady, and you’ll get more control.

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The Biggest Mistake? Swinging Too Much

If you’re trying to “hit” volleys with a full swing, stop.

Here’s what happens when you swing too big:
❌ The ball goes out
❌ You pop it up
❌ You’re out of position for the next shot

Instead, remember:

• The volley is a block, or punch, not a swing

• The ball already has energy from your opponent

• Your job is to absorb and redirect it

Mental cue: Pretend you’re catching the ball on your paddle and giving it a little push back.

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Quick Volley Checklist

Here’s what to remember next time you’re at the kitchen line:

• ✅ Continental grip: One grip for both sides

• ✅ Paddle out front: Centered and ready

• ✅ Wrist is firm: No flicking

• ✅ Short swing: Powered by the shoulder

• ✅ Stay balanced: No lunging or reaching

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Final Thoughts for New Players

If you’re just starting out, the volley can feel a little awkward and that’s okay. Like everything else in pickleball, it gets easier with reps.

Start slow. Focus on:

• Using one grip

• Keeping your paddle in front

• Staying relaxed but controlled

Master the volley, and you’ll feel more confident at the non-volley zone.

Want more tips on how to grow your pickleball game? Download our Free Beginner Guide and Video course.