Pickleball Grip Types

If you're new to pickleball and wondering how to hold your paddle, it's important to understand the different types of grips. There are three main grips commonly used in pickleball: the western grip, the eastern grip, and the continental grip. Each grip has its own advantages and is used in different situations. However, there are no strict rules that dictate which grip should be used for specific shots. What matters most is finding a grip that complements your playing style and allows you to have control over the paddle.

For beginners, it's crucial to learn how to hold the paddle correctly and understand the orientation of the paddle face when making forehand shots. This is especially important when learning the basics of pickleball, including the serve. It's recommended that new players experiment with different grips to see how the ball performs with each one. This will help them understand the nuances of each grip and how it affects their shots.
Before diving into the different grips, it's essential for beginners to choose a pickleball paddle with the right grip size. No matter how great a paddle may be, if the grip size is incorrect, it can greatly impact your performance on the court. One simple way to measure grip circumference is by using a general measurement based on your height. For players who are 5'2" and below, a grip size of 4 inches is recommended. For players between 5'3" and 5'8", a grip size of 4.125 to 4.25 inches is suitable. And for players taller than 5'8", a grip size of 4.5 inches is ideal.
Once you have a pickleball paddle with the right grip size, it's time to learn the eastern grip. This grip is considered the most basic and is commonly used by beginners and intermediate players. The eastern grip involves placing the base knuckle of your index finger on the third bevel of the paddle handle. This grip provides a good balance of control and power, making it a great starting point for new players. As you progress and gain more experience, you can explore other grips like the western grip or the continental grip to further enhance your game.

• The Eastern Pickleball Grip is a versatile grip that is suitable for all players, regardless of their playing style. It is often called a universal or neutral grip because it allows players to hit both forehand and backhand shots without needing to adjust their grip during the game,
  To find the Eastern grip, hold the paddle in front of your body with your non-dominant hand and look down at the edge of the paddle. Place the flat of your dominant hand on the face of the paddle and slide it down until you reach the handle. Complete the grip by imagining that you are shaking hands with someone.

• The Western Pickleball Grip is ideal for players who have a strong forehand. To achieve this grip, start with the Eastern grip and then rotate your wrist 90 degrees clockwise if you are right-handed or 90 degrees counterclockwise if you are left-handed.

• The Continental Pickleball Grip, also known as the hammer grip, is perfect for players who prefer using their backhand. It involves holding the paddle in the same way you would hold a hammer, providing a strong and stable grip for powerful backhand shots.

Good Grip Pressure
Understanding the importance of good grip pressure is crucial, especially if you have a background in racket sports. In games like tennis or badminton, a tight grip is necessary to generate power when hitting the ball forcefully. However, in pickleball, the pressure of your grip can greatly impact your game depending on the type of shot you are executing.
Pickleball instructors often discuss grip pressure on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 representing a loose grip and 10 indicating a very tight grip. It is important to note that a grip pressure of 10, which causes discomfort or turns your knuckles white, should be avoided as it can lead to injuries and is not effective in pickleball.
When hitting hard shots from the baseline or serving aggressively, it is recommended to have a tighter grip. This allows for better control and power during these shots. On the other hand, softer shots such as dinks or third shot drops require a lighter grip pressure, typically around three or four on the scale.
It is crucial to maintain a loose grip when someone hits a hard shot towards you and you need to block the ball back with a volley. Many players tend to tighten their grip instinctively in such situations, but it is more effective to absorb the power of the shot and then volley the ball back across the kitchen line to reset the point.

Serving Grip
When it comes to serving in pickleball, it's important to consider the grip you use on your paddle. While the underhand serve is a standard in pickleball, the type of grip you choose can make a difference in your game.
The western grip is favored by many players due to the power and spin it provides, thanks to the wrist action it allows. On the other hand, if you find it challenging to switch grips after serving, the eastern forehand grip might be a better option for you.