Top 7 Pickleball Mistakes Beginners Make — And How to Fix Them Fast

Top 7 Pickleball Mistakes Beginners Make — And How to Fix Them Fast

If you’re new to pickleball, you’re going to make mistakes — everyone does.

The good news? Most beginner mistakes are super fixable once you know what to look for. I teach these corrections every week in my clinics, and players usually see improvement within one session.

Let’s break down the 7 biggest beginner mistakes and how to fix them immediately.

1. Standing too far back from the Kitchen

Beginners camp out at mid-court or float just behind the NVZ line. That creates awkward shots and pop-ups.

Fix:

After the return, sprint to the kitchen and stay there unless you’re forced back. The team that controls the kitchen controls the point.

2. Swinging like it’s tennis

Big wind-ups cause mishits, late contact, and balls flying long.

Fix:

Compact swings. Elbows in. Punch volleys. Control > power.

3. Forgetting the split-step

Players stay flat-footed and react late.

Fix:

A light hop as your opponent hits the ball keeps you balanced and ready to move in any direction.

4. Over-hitting dinks

Beginners try to “win” dinks instead of keeping them unattackable.

Fix:

Aim for arc + soft hands. Your goal is consistency, not winners.

5. Attacking from below the net

If the ball is below the net, speeding up is almost always a losing move.

Fix:

Reset, reset, reset. Lift the ball back into the kitchen and restart the rally.

6. Waiting too long to transition forward

Players hit their third shot… then admire it.

Fix:

Hit → move.

Every third shot (drop or drive) should be followed immediately by forward movement.

7. Playing the ball, not the opponent

Beginners react to where the ball currently is instead of seeing where it’s going.

Fix:

Watch your opponent’s:

• paddle angle

• stance

• shoulder turn

• swing path

This instantly increases your anticipation and Pickleball IQ.

Final Takeaway

Clean up these mistakes and your game will jump levels fast. If you want hands-on coaching, join one of my weekly clinics or book a private—your future doubles partner will thank you.