How to hit the backhand punch volley in pickleball

Published: 2023-02-09

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Welcome to the Pickleball Clinic! My name is Matt and today we’re going to dive into the technique and strategy behind the backhand punch volley and help you take your pickleball game to the next level.

Pickleball is a sport that requires a combination of skill, strategy, and technique. As you advance from the 3.5 to the 4.0 level, mastering the backhand punch volley becomes increasingly important. This shot can be the difference between simply defending against your opponents and going on the offensive, keeping your opponents on the defensive, and maintaining control of the game.

What is the Backhand Punch Volley?

The backhand punch volley is a shot players use to keep their opponents back and attack from the kitchen line. It’s a powerful weapon that can be especially effective against opponents who have hit a third shot drive, high third shot drop, or high dink.

Unlike other volleys that rely on a flick or roll motion, the backhand punch volley is a short, quick motion that uses the shoulder and elbow to push the paddle forward. The objective is to hit the ball over the net and forward with pace and power rather than rolling it up or hitting it down.

Key Learning Points of the Punch Volley

Here are some key learning points to keep in mind as you work on mastering the backhand punch volley:

The paddle should be out in front of you, with a relaxed and slight elbow bend, to give you room to punch the paddle forward.
The shot is a punch forward, not a flick or roll, and requires a short, quick motion.
The wrist remains relaxed during the shot, and the emphasis is on using the shoulder and elbow to push the paddle forward.
The paddle should be kept a couple of feet from the body, with room to extend about six inches when hitting the ball.
The objective is to hit the ball straight and aggressively over the net rather than rolling it up or hitting it down.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the Backhand Punch Volley

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you master the backhand punch volley:

Start by preparing your stance with the paddle out in front of you and a relaxed and slight elbow bend.

Turn the paddle to the backhand side as the ball approaches.

Punch forward with a short, quick motion, using your shoulder and elbow to push the paddle forward.

Timing is key. Aggressively time the ball so that you can punch it forward.

Keep the paddle out in front, without taking it back, and hit the ball straight and aggressively over the net.

Practice makes perfect. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become with the backhand punch volley.

Practice, patience, and perseverance are crucial to mastering the backhand punch volley. With some hard work and dedication, you’ll soon be hitting this powerful shot with confidence and control, taking your pickleball game to the next level.