How to Hold a Pickleball Paddle for Beginners: The Ultimate Guide

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Holding a pickleball paddle correctly is the foundation of every great shot—whether it’s a powerful drive, a precise dink, or a well-placed serve. For beginners, mastering the proper grip can significantly improve control, power, and overall gameplay.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the best ways to hold a pickleball paddle, including grip types, hand positioning, pressure, and common mistakes to avoid. We’ll also provide expert tips to help you refine your technique and elevate your game.

Why the Right Grip Matters

Before diving into techniques, it’s important to understand why grip matters:

Control & Accuracy – A proper grip helps direct the ball where you want it.
Power & Spin – Different grips allow for more topspin, backspin, or power.
Injury Prevention – Holding the paddle incorrectly can lead to wrist or elbow strain (like “pickleball elbow”).
Versatility – The right grip lets you switch between forehands and backhands smoothly.

Now, let’s explore the three main pickleball paddle grips for beginners.

1. The Continental Grip (Best for Beginners)

The Continental grip (also called the “hammer grip”) is the most recommended grip for beginners because it’s versatile and easy to learn.

How to Hold the Continental Grip

Imagine holding a hammer – Your hand should naturally wrap around the paddle handle as if you’re gripping a hammer.
Position the “V” shape – The space between your thumb and index finger (the “V”) should rest on bevel #3 (the top-right edge for right-handed players).
Keep a relaxed grip – Don’t squeeze too tightly; hold the paddle with 30-40% pressure for better control.

Pros of the Continental Grip

✔ Works well for both forehand and backhand shots without changing grip.
✔ Great for dinks, volleys, and serves.
✔ Reduces wrist strain compared to extreme grips.

Cons of the Continental Grip

✖ Slightly less power on aggressive forehand drives.
✖ Not ideal for heavy topspin shots.

Expert Tip: Most professional players use the Continental grip for net play because it allows quick reactions and soft touch shots 8.

2. The Eastern Grip (Balanced Power & Control)

The Eastern grip (or “handshake grip”) is another excellent option for beginners who want a neutral position between power and control.

How to Hold the Eastern Grip

Shake hands with the paddle – Imagine extending your hand for a handshake and wrapping it around the handle.
Align the “V” on bevel #2 – The “V” between your thumb and index finger should rest slightly to the right (for right-handed players).
Keep fingers relaxed – Avoid gripping too tightly to maintain wrist flexibility.

Pros of the Eastern Grip

✔ More natural and comfortable for beginners.
✔ Better forehand power than the Continental grip.
✔ Still allows easy transitions between shots.

Cons of the Eastern Grip

✖ Less effective for backhands compared to the Continental grip.
✖ Not the best for advanced spin techniques.

When to Use It? The Eastern grip is great for serves and groundstrokes but may require slight adjustments at the net.

3. The Western Grip (Advanced, Not Recommended for Beginners)

The Western grip is used by advanced players who want maximum topspin and power—but it’s not ideal for beginners due to its complexity.

How to Hold the Western Grip

Rotate your hand further clockwise (right-handed players).
Place the “V” on bevel #4 or #5 – This closes the paddle face, helping generate topspin.
Firm grip for power – Unlike the Continental grip, this requires a slightly tighter hold.

Pros of the Western Grip

✔ Generates heavy topspin.
✔ Great for powerful forehand drives.

Cons of the Western Grip

✖ Weak backhands – Requires grip changes mid-play.
✖ Harder to control dinks and volleys.
✖ Can lead to wrist strain if overused.

Expert Advice: Beginners should master the Continental or Eastern grip first before experimenting with the Western grip.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make

Gripping Too Tightly – A death grip reduces control and increases fatigue. Hold the paddle loosely (3-4/10 pressure).
Using a Tennis or Ping-Pong Grip – Pickleball requires a shorter handle grip, not a tennis-style swing.
Not Adjusting Grip for Different Shots – A firmer grip works for drives, while a softer grip is better for dinks.
Ignoring Finger Placement – Some players extend their index finger for control, while others wrap all fingers for power.

Bonus: How to Improve Your Grip Strength & Technique

Practice Drills – Try hitting against a wall using different grips.
Use Overgrips – Thicker grips can help players with larger hands.
Strengthen Forearms – Squeeze a stress ball or use resistance bands.
Take Lessons – A coach can correct your grip in real time.

FAQs: How to Hold a Pickleball Paddle for Beginners

1. What is the easiest grip for pickleball beginners?

The Continental grip (hammer grip) is the easiest and most versatile for beginners. It allows smooth transitions between forehands, backhands, and volleys without requiring grip changes.

2. Should I hold the pickleball paddle tightly or loosely?

Hold it loosely (30-40% pressure) for better control and wrist flexibility. A death grip can lead to fatigue, reduced accuracy, and even elbow strain (“pickleball elbow”).

3. Can I use a tennis grip for pickleball?

No. Tennis grips (like the Eastern or Western forehand grip) are not ideal for pickleball because the paddle is shorter, and the swing mechanics differ. The Continental grip is better suited for pickleball’s quick reactions.

4. Where should my index finger be placed?

Some players extend their index finger along the paddle for extra control (like a “trigger finger”).
Others wrap all fingers around the handle for more power.
Experiment to see what feels most comfortable for you.

5. How do I know if my grip is correct?

The “V” between your thumb and index finger should align with the correct bevel (e.g., bevel #3 for Continental grip).
Your wrist should feel flexible, not stiff.
You should be able to switch between forehand and backhand smoothly.

6. What’s the best grip for serving in pickleball?

Most players use the Continental or Eastern grip for serves because they provide a balance of control and power. Avoid the Western grip for serves unless you’re an advanced player.

7. Why does my wrist hurt when playing pickleball?

You might be gripping too tightly.
Using an incorrect grip (like a tennis grip).
Not warming up properly before play.
Try switching to a Continental grip and loosening your hold.

8. Can I switch grips during a game?

Yes, but beginners should stick to one grip (like Continental) until they master basic shots. Advanced players may adjust their grip for spin or power shots.

9. What’s the best paddle grip size for beginners?

4 1/8″ to 4 1/4″ circumference is standard.
If your fingers overlap too much, try a thicker overgrip.
If the handle feels too big, look for a smaller grip size.

10. How can I improve my grip strength for pickleball?

Use a stress ball or grip trainer.
Practice forearm exercises (wrist curls, resistance bands).
Play wall drills to refine control.

Final Verdict: Which Grip Should Beginners Use?

Grip Type	Best For	Difficulty Level
Continental	All-around play, volleys, dinks	Easiest (Best for Beginners)
Eastern	Balanced power & control	Moderate
Western	Advanced topspin & power	Hard (Not for Beginners)

For new players, the Continental grip is the best starting point because it’s simple, versatile, and reduces injury risk. As you improve, experiment with the Eastern grip for more power, and eventually the Western grip for spin-heavy shots.

Key Takeaways

✅ Start with the Continental grip – It’s the easiest and most versatile.
✅ Hold the paddle loosely – A tight grip reduces control.
✅ Adjust grip pressure – Firmer for power, softer for touch shots.
✅ Avoid common mistakes – Don’t use a tennis grip or squeeze too hard.

By mastering the right grip early, you’ll develop better habits, prevent injuries, and play like a pro in no time!

Need a paddle recommendation? Check out beginner-friendly options like the Onix Z5 Graphite or Paddletek Phoenix G6.

Now it’s your turn! Head to the court, practice these grips, and see which one feels best for your game. Happy pickling! 🏓