Pickleball Lob Serve: Advanced Tips & Techniques

By: Brandon Fritze

Are you tired of using the same serves in pickleball and looking for a new way to spice up your game?

Look no further than the lob serve. This often underutilized shot can be a powerful weapon in your arsenal if executed correctly.

You can learn everything you need about lob serves from this article, from its benefits to tips for mastering it. So, get ready to take your pickleball game to the next level with this serve.

What is a Lob Serve in Pickleball?

In this serve, the ball is hit high into the air, allowing it to travel deep into the opponent’s court. It is typically used to force the opponent to move back to the baseline and return the ball from a difficult position.

The lob serve is an effective strategy for players who want to mix up their serves and keep their opponents guessing.

Pickleball Lob Serve

How to Execute a Lob Serve in Pickleball?

Executing a lob serve in pickleball requires proper technique and timing. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Start by standing behind the baseline on the right-hand side of the court if you are right-handed (left-hand side if you are left-handed).
  2. Hold the ball with your non-dominant hand and the paddle with your dominant hand.
  3. Toss the ball into the air, ensuring it reaches a height of at least 12 feet.
  4. As the ball reaches its peak, swing your paddle upward and make contact with it.
  5. Aim to hit the ball with the centre of the paddle face to generate a soft touch that causes the ball to travel high into the air.
  6. Follow through with your swing, ensuring that your paddle moves upward and forward.
  7. Prepare to move forward to the non-volley zone after you hit the ball, as your opponent will likely hit the return from the back of the court.
Pickleball Lob Deep Serve

Benefits of Incorporating a Lob Serve into Your Game

Incorporating a lob serve into your game can provide several benefits, including:

Forcing Your Opponent to Move

The lob serve can effectively force your opponent to move back to the baseline, giving you more time to set up for your next shot.

Creating Opportunities for Offensive Shots

When your opponent is forced to return from the baseline, you may have an opportunity to hit a drop shot or a hard drive that puts them on the defensive.

Mixing Up Your Serves

Using different types of serves can keep your opponent guessing and make it harder for them to anticipate your next move.

It can give you an advantage and increase the likelihood of winning the point.

Increasing Your Overall Skill Level

Incorporating a lob serve into your game can improve your overall skill level by adding another shot to your repertoire.

It can make you a more well-rounded player and give you more options on the court.

Tips for Mastering the Lob Serve in Pickleball

If you’re looking to improve your lob serve in pickleball, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Practice, Practice, Practice

The more you practice your lob serve, the better you will become. Practice in various situations and with different opponents to simulate real-game scenarios.

Focus on Your Technique

Proper technique is critical to executing a successful lob serve. Make sure to focus on your form and make any adjustments to your swing.

Mix Up Your Serves

Don’t rely solely on the lob serve. Mix in other types of serves such as a hard drive or a spin serve, to keep your opponent guessing.

Pay Attention to Your Opponent

Your opponent’s positioning and playing style can impact the effectiveness of your lob serve.

Pay attention to their movements and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Be Patient

The lob serve may only sometimes result in an immediate win, but it can create opportunities for you to make offensive shots.

Be patient and take advantage of these opportunities when they arise.

Final Thoughts on Lob Serve in Pickleball

I suggest you mix up your serves and pay attention to your opponent’s movements to stay one step ahead on the court. It is where incorporating the lob serve into your game can improve your overall skill level and increase your chances of winning points.

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