How to Keep the Ball Low in Pickleball: Tips for Control & Precision

Ever watched those pro pickleball players and wondered how they keep their shots so effortlessly low? You're not alone. Whether you're tired of watching your shots sail high into the air and bracing yourself for a smash from your opponent or simply want to up your game, you've come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the art and science of keeping your pickleball shots low, complete with expert tips that will transform your game from high and hopeful to low and lethal.

At 11 PICKLES, we embrace the joy of pickleball and want to sprinkle it everywhere (because everyone should feel welcome in this amazing community!) Part of loving the game is seeing improvements in your gameplay. It’s time to zoom in on one of the most important skills in the game: the low shot. 

Why Keeping the Ball Low Matters in Pickleball

Let's get real — keeping the ball low isn't just about looking cool on the court (though it definitely helps). It's about gaining a serious competitive edge that can make the difference between winning and losing those crucial points.

The Science of Low Shots

Think of a low pickleball shot as a time thief. The lower the ball, the less time you give your opponent to react to your shot. It definitely gives you a strategic advantage and makes the game more fun and engaging. A constant smash fest is only fun for one doing the smashing. 

Here are some compelling reasons to keep the ball low in pickleball:

1. Challenging Returns: Hitting the ball low makes it harder for your opponent to return with power and precision.
2. Reduced Reaction Time: A low shot gives your opponent less time to react.
3. Enhanced Control: Low shots improve control for better placement and spin.
4. Minimized Risk of Putaways: They decrease the chance of your opponent executing a putaway.
5. Forcing Lifts: Low shots compel opponents to lift the ball, creating attacking opportunities.
6. Preventing Opponent Attacks: They limit your opponent’s offensive options, leading to defensive shots.
7. Controlling Game Pace: Low shots help manage rally rhythm, conserve energy, and make opponents work harder.

These strategies can significantly enhance your gameplay and give you an edge on the court.

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Common Mistakes with High Shots

Let's talk about those shots that look more like moon launches than pickleball plays. We've all been there, and understanding these common mistakes is your first step toward grounding your game.

"Understanding the rules of pickleball is just as important as fixing these mistakes. Brush up on the basics with our pickleball rules for dummies guide."

Over-hitting: causes and solutions 

The myth that "more power equals better shots" often leads to high shots. Players confuse power with effectiveness. Instead, focus on controlled precision; think of your paddle as a paintbrush, creating art rather than demolishing walls.

The impact of poor technique 

High shots often signal technique issues. An improper paddle angle can act like a launching pad, while hitting the ball too far back or too low sends it upward. Insufficient knee bend keeps you upright, and poor weight transfer makes your shots easier for opponents. Your knees probably just moaned at the thought of bending too far. Check out this comprehensive guide on pickleball knee pain to prevent injury and tips on what to do if you do get hurt.

Mechanics of a Low Pickleball Shot

Now that we've identified what not to do let's dive into the mechanics that will keep your shots low and lethal. Think of this as your technical blueprint for success.

Grip and Stance Adjustments

Your grip and stance are the foundation of every shot you'll ever make. Get these wrong, and you're building your pickleball house on sand.

Types of grips and their impact 

The Continental grip is your go-to for dinks and soft shots, acting like a surgeon's scalpel for precise control. Think of it as holding a hammer — your thumb and index finger form a 'V' pointing right down the paddle handle. 

The Eastern grip, meanwhile, is your trusted ally for drives and passing shots, offering a perfect blend of control and power. 

Players who love to play with power swear by the Western grip. This grip increases the opportunity create topspin and apply higher power for groundstrokes and serves.

Balanced stance for control

Keep your feet shoulder-width apart for stability, with weight slightly forward on the balls of your feet, as if ready to pounce. Flex your knees to about 45 degrees. This athletic stance prepares you for controlled, low shots.

Proper Swing Technique

Think of your pickleball swing as a smooth, flowing dance move rather than a choppy, mechanical action. Let's break down this choreography into its essential elements.

Keeping the paddle angle low 

Think of your paddle face as a shelf that should stay level enough to hold a glass of water. Hold it with a slight upward tilt of about 5 to 10 degrees. This angle helps control ball height. Make contact with the ball at waist height or lower, as if skimming it across a pond, and maintain a consistent paddle head speed throughout your stroke.

Generating topspin for control 

Topspin is essential for keeping shots low while maintaining control. Brush the ball from bottom to top, like peeling an orange, keeping your wrist loose yet controlled, similar to holding a paintbrush. This approach helps create topspin without losing accuracy. Remember, the goal is to tame the ball, not overpower it.

Timing and follow-through 

The secret to great timing lies in hitting through the ball, not at it. Your paddle should continue moving well after contact. Your follow-through should feel as fluid as tossing a bean bag, flowing toward your target with purpose and control. Keep that paddle face managed throughout the motion. 

The Role of Footwork

If you think pickleball is all about your arms, think again. Your feet play an essential role in every great shot, especially those crucial low balls.

Staying low with bent knees 

Channel your inner ninja: always ready, always balanced. Your athletic stance isn't just a starting position; it's your home base throughout the entire point. Keep your center of gravity low, as if you're trying to stay under a ceiling that's slightly too low. 

Positioning yourself for consistent shots 

Great footwork resembles a choreographed dance. Begin with the split step—a small hop timed with your opponent's contact with the ball for quick reactions. Move laterally with swift, precise movements and focus on recovery steps to return to your optimal position after each shot.

Drills to Practice Low Pickleball Shots

Ready to put all that theory into practice? Let's dive into some drills that will transform your high-flying shots into laser-guided missiles. Remember, practice doesn't make perfect - perfect practice makes perfect.

Dinking Lower and Longer Drill

Dinking is the bread and butter of a good pickleball strategy, especially when it comes to keeping the ball low and in control during net play.

"To truly master this essential skill, learn what is dinking in pickleball and how it can give you an edge during those strategic net battles."

Goal: Develop precise, low dinks that barely clear the net and land deep in your opponent’s kitchen.

How to Do It:

• Stand at the non-volley zone line with a partner.
• Start a controlled dinking rally, aiming to keep the ball low while placing it deep into your opponent’s non-volley zone.
• Focus on soft hands, minimal paddle motion, and smooth follow-through.

Practicing this drill improves your control and prevents you from hitting pop-ups that opponents can smash. It’s particularly valuable for doubles play.

Third Shot Drop Practice

Mastering the third shot drop is critical for keeping the ball low and neutralizing your opponent’s advantage from the baseline.

Goal: Perfect the soft, arcing third shot drop that lands low in your opponent's kitchen.

How to Do It:

• Start at the baseline while your partner feeds you deep balls.
• Focus on hitting soft, controlled shots that barely clear the net and drop gently into the kitchen.
• Adjust your paddle angle and use a consistent follow-through to control the ball’s height and placement.

This drill is ideal for both singles and doubles, as it helps you transition to the net while keeping the ball low and difficult for your opponent to attack.

Dink and Attack Drill

This drill combines defensive dinking with offensive opportunities, teaching you to keep the ball low while recognizing when to go on the attack.

Goal: Maintain low, controlled dinks and transition into aggressive play when the opportunity arises.

How to Do It:

• Start a dinking rally with your partner.
• After a set number of dinks (e.g., 5-7), introduce the option to attack any high ball.
• Your focus should be on keeping your dinks consistently low to prevent giving your partner an opportunity to attack.

This drill sharpens your ability to control the pace of play while training you to capitalize on mistakes made by your opponent.

Wall Rally Drill

If you don’t have a partner to practice with, a wall can be your best friend. This solo drill helps improve control and consistency in hitting low shots.

Goal: Enhance your ability to keep the ball low and controlled when practicing alone.

How to Do It:

• Stand a few feet from a wall.
• Hit the ball against the wall, aiming for a target area just above net height.
• Focus on controlling the angle of your paddle and keeping your shots low and consistent.

This drill is excellent for players looking to build muscle memory and practice low shots without requiring a partner or court.

Incorporate these drills into your routine to quickly improve your ability to keep the ball low in pickleball. Consistency and precision are key, whether practicing solo, with a partner, or during gameplay.

Tracking your progress is just as important as practicing. Learn how to get a DUPR rating to measure your improvement and compete with players at your level.

Here’s a great video that summarizes everything we just learned:

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Looking for more ways to train solo? Check out our guide on pickleball at home for creative drills, DIY setups, and practice tips to refine your game anywhere.

Equipment Tips for Better Low Shots

Let's talk gear — because sometimes, the right equipment can be the difference between struggling and succeeding with those low shots.

Choosing the Right Paddle

Think of your paddle as your primary weapon in the battle for low shots. Not all paddles are created equal, and finding the right one can dramatically improve your control.

Top-Rated Paddles for Control and Low Shots:

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The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS  is like the Swiss watch of pickleball paddles. Its precisely engineered sweet spot and responsive face make it perfect for those delicate dinks and controlled drives. Players consistently report exceptional touch feel, allowing them to execute low shots with surgical precision.

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The Selkirk AMPED Epic is the paddle equivalent of a luxury sports car—smooth, responsive, and incredibly reliable. Its enhanced sweet spot and vibration reduction technology help players maintain consistent control, which is especially crucial for keeping shots low. The paddle's balanced weight distribution makes it feel like a natural extension of your arm.

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For those watching their budget, the HEAD Radical Elite delivers impressive performance without breaking the bank. Think of it as the "best value" option that doesn't compromise on quality. Its balanced power-to-control ratio makes it an excellent choice for players developing their low-shot game.

Maintaining Optimal Court Shoes

Your shoes are your foundation - neglect them at your peril. The right footwear can significantly improve your ability to stay low and maintain control.

Top-Rated Court Shoes for Stability:

The K-Swiss Express Light offers the "gecko grip." Its exceptional court hold gives you the confidence to make quick, low movements without fear of slipping. The superior lateral support keeps you stable during crucial side-to-side movements.

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Men’s

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Women’s

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The ASICS Gel-Rocket 10 proves that you don't need to spend a fortune for quality. These shoes feature excellent cushioning that helps absorb impact while maintaining court feel. They're particularly good for players who spend long sessions practicing their low shots.

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Men’s 

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Women’s

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The New Balance Fresh Foam Lav V2 represents the perfect marriage of comfort and performance. The enhanced durability means you won't need to replace them as frequently, while the superior court feel helps you maintain that crucial low position throughout extended rallies.

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Men’s 

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Women’s 

Strategies for Keeping Shots Low in Different Situations

Every pickleball situation demands its own approach. Let's break down how to keep those shots low in various game scenarios.

Low Shots in the Kitchen (Dinking)

The kitchen - or non-volley zone

Think of this area as your artist's studio, where precision and touch create masterpieces. Learn more about kitchen pickleball rules. 

Controlling the ball at the net 

Keep the paddle slightly tilted upward and make contact with the ball in front of your body. Use your hands as shock absorbers—soft and responsive, not rigid. Avoid trying to "help" the ball over the net; instead, let its energy do the work and direct it with controlled touch.

Avoiding pop-ups

Pop-ups in the kitchen invite opponents to slam the ball. To counter this, use the "soft eyes" technique: track the ball to your paddle face. Keep your backswing minimal and make your forward motion controlled and deliberate, as if moving through honey.

Low Shots from the Baseline

The baseline presents unique challenges for keeping shots low, but with the right approach, you can master this crucial skill.

Staying patient and precise 

Baseline control means choosing your moments wisely. Instead of forcing winners, focus on consistent, low trajectories that pressure your opponents. Each shot should be purposeful and precise—consistency beats power every time..

Using low drive shots effectively 

To execute effective low drives, keep the ball below net height and maintain pace. Aim for your opponents' feet and use the court's width to make them move. A good low drive resembles skimming a ball across a pond.

Low Shots on the Move

Movement and control aren't mutually exclusive - you can maintain those low shots even while on the run.

Transitioning to the net with control 

The transition zone is often challenging for players. To improve, maintain balance and take smaller steps toward the net. Keep your shots simple, focusing on placement rather than power, and view each shot as a step toward your final position.

Managing fast-paced rallies 

When the game speeds up, technique often suffers. Stay calm by focusing on your breathing and fundamentals. Keep shots controlled, using measured power instead of wild swings. A well-placed low shot is more effective than a powerful high one.

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FAQs About Keeping the Ball Low in Pickleball

Now, let's address those burning questions that keep popping up about low shots. 

Q: Why do my pickleball shots keep going high? 

A: High shots in pickleball are often caused by excessive power, poor paddle angle, and improper timing. Many players swing too hard, treating it like baseball, but finesse is more important. If your paddle is tilted upward, it can send the ball soaring. Hitting the ball too far behind or too low can also lift it, especially when players rush their shots due to nerves. To improve, take a deep breath, slow down, and focus on making clean contact with the ball.

Q: How can I improve my control with low shots? 

A: Developing low shot control requires patience, time, and consistency. Dedicate 15-20 minutes of every practice session to low-shot drills, starting with a wall to focus on technique before adding speed.

Record your practice sessions weekly to identify any flaws. Use the right equipment; a paddle that's too heavy or light can hinder control. Remember, progress in pickleball isn't always linear, so don’t get discouraged by slow improvement.

Q: Is spin necessary for low shots? 

A: While spin is a valuable tool, it's not always necessary. Topspin helps keep balls low and harder to attack, but clean, flat shots can also be effective. The key is to know when to use spin. Focus on mastering flat shots first, then gradually incorporate spin as you gain confidence.

Final Tips and Takeaways

Let's wrap this up with some golden nuggets of wisdom that will help you on your journey to mastering low shots.

The fundamentals are your foundation. Never stop working on them, even as you advance. These are your pickleball roots; the stronger they are, the higher you can grow. Practice with purpose. Mindless repetition won't cut it. Each practice session should have specific goals and focus areas.

Equipment matters, but it's not everything. The best paddle in the world won't fix poor technique, but the right equipment can enhance good technique. Regular video analysis of your game is invaluable. What you feel you're doing and what you're actually doing can be surprisingly different.

Remember to stay patient during the learning process. Progress may feel slow, but each practice builds on the last. Consider working with a professional instructor to identify and correct flaws. Focus on steady improvement and keeping your shots low. Celebrate your progress, learn from mistakes, and enjoy the journey to becoming a better player.

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The Path Forward

Remember, mastering low shots in pickleball takes time and practice. Every professional player you admire started exactly where you are now. Oftentimes, the difference between good and great comes down to your dedication to mastering these fundamental skills.

Take these techniques, drills, and tips and put in the time to improve the low ball shot. If you make practice a priority, stay patient, and trust the process, before you know it, you'll be the player others watch in amazement, wondering how you keep those shots so effortlessly low.

The Low Down with 11 PICKLES

At 11 PICKLES, we don’t just have the pickleball bug — we're building a community that celebrates the diversity and inclusivity of the game. Whether you're a weekend warrior or pickleball-is-lifer, you belong here.

If you're still mastering the basics and want a comprehensive guide on how to level up your gameplay, check out our article on how to be good at pickleball. It's packed with beginner-friendly tips, strategies, and practical advice to get you playing with confidence in no time.

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