What is Forehand in Pickleball?

Pickleball is a fun sport that is becoming more and more popular. One of the main shots in pickleball is the forehand. So what exactly is a forehand shot in pickleball?

What Does “Forehand” Mean in Pickleball?

The forehand is when you hit the ball with the front of your hand. Your palm should be facing towards the net when you hit a forehand.

The forehand is usually your strongest shot in pickleball. That’s because you can use your dominant hand to hit forehand shots.

For example, if you’re right-handed, your right palm will be facing the net when hitting a forehand. This allows you to generate a lot of power with your dominant hand.

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Why is the Forehand Important in Pickleball?

The forehand is so important in pickleball because it lets you control the ball and aim accurately.

Since your palm is facing the net on a forehand, you can brush up on the back of the ball. This creates topspin and makes the ball dip down into the court.

With the forehand, you can aim cross-court or down-the-line. You can hit with power or add touch to drop the ball short. The forehand gives you great versatility on your shots.

That’s why the forehand is often player’s best offensive weapon in pickleball. It’s your “go-to” shot from the baseline when you want to attack.

What’s the Proper Form for a Forehand in Pickleball?

To hit great forehand shots in pickleball, you need proper form. Here are some tips:

Use a Continental Grip

First, grip the pickleball paddle with a continental grip. This grip is halfway between a forehand and backhand grip.

With a continental grip, your index knuckle will be slightly tilted up on the paddle handle. This allows you to quickly switch from forehand to backhand.

Keep Your Eyes on the Ball

As the ball is approaching, keep your eye focused on it. Watch it all the way onto your strings.

Step Into the Shot

Take a step forward with your front foot as you start your swing. This transfers your body weight forward for more power.

Rotate Your Body

Rotate your hips and shoulders towards the net. This coils your body, building up energy to unload on the ball.

Swing Low to High

Swing the paddle low to high to brush under the ball. This imparts topspin for control and depth.

Follow Through

Follow through out in front of your body. This ensures you continue accelerating through the ball for maximum power.

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How Do You Hit a Powerful Forehand Drive?

The forehand drive is a powerful groundstroke hit deep in the opponent’s court. Here are some tips for crushing forehand drives:

Bend Your Knees

Bend your knees slightly to get in an athletic ready position. This helps you explode into the shot.

Take a Big Backswing

Windup a long, circular backswing to generate momentum before swinging forward.

Transfer Your Weight

Shift your weight from your back foot to your front foot as you swing. This adds force to your shot.

Accelerate Through the Ball

Increase your swing speed as you make contact with the ball. Don’t decelerate.

Extend Your Follow Through

Continue accelerating the paddle out in front of your body. Follow all the way through for maximum power.

Use Your Body

Rotate your shoulders and hips fully. Power comes from your big muscles, not just your arm and wrist.

What Are Some Common Forehand Errors?

It takes practice to groove an effective forehand technique. Here are some common errors to avoid:

Hitting Too Flat

If you hit flat through the ball, it will sail long. Make sure to brush up for topspin.

Gripping Too Tight

Don’t strangle the paddle! Hold it firmly but not too tight so you can swing freely.

Short Follow Through

If you stop your swing too soon after contact, you bleed off power and spin.

Not Transferring Weight

Failing to step forward and transfer your weight results in a weak shot.

Swinging Too Fast

Rushing your swing causes errors. Let your body uncoil naturally for optimal speed.

Poor Ready Position

If your knees are straight and posture stiff, you won’t move well into the shot.

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How Can You Improve Your Forehand Technique?

Here are some great tips for developing a well-rounded forehand:

Practice Cross-Court and Down-the-Line

Don’t get in the habit of just hitting cross-court. Mix in down-the-line forehands to keep your opponent guessing.

Use Different Grips

Try continental, eastern, and semi-western grips to see what provides the most control and power for your game.

Add Topspin and Under Spin

Learn to hit heavy topspin drives as well as underspin drop shots to expand your forehand toolkit.

Use Visualization

Picture yourself hitting perfect forehands before swinging. This mental imagery helps program your subconscious mind.

Do Forehand Specific Drills

Do solo drills like alternating cross-court and down-the-line forehands. You can also do cooperative forehand drills with a practice partner.

Watch the Pros

Study how the top pros hit their forehand. Try to model their form and technique on your own forehands.

Conclusion: Master the Forehand to Control Points

The forehand is the foundation for controlling points in pickleball. From power drives to touch shots, the forehand gives you many options.

Practice the proper forehand form and technique. Be patient; it takes time to develop forehand mastery. But it’s worth it. A solid forehand will help you win more games and have more fun playing pickleball!