Want to dominate the court? It starts with your serve and return. Whether you’re a beginner or already competing at a higher level, these two skills are critical. In this post, we’ll break down the most effective pickleball drills to improve your serve and return—and how training with the Srikel P1 Net can take your game to the next level.
Why Are Serve and Return So Important?
The serve initiates every point and sets the tone for the rally. The return, meanwhile, is your first chance to apply pressure and gain control. When you refine these areas, you’ll:
- Control the pace of play
- Reduce unforced errors
- Improve court positioning
- Build overall confidence
Let’s dive into key drills that can sharpen these essential skills.
Drill 1: Target Zone Serving
Goal: Improve accuracy and consistency on your serve.
What You Need: Paddle, pickleballs, and the Srikel P1 Net.
How to Perform:
- Divide your opponent’s service box into four zones using chalk or cones.
- Serve 10 balls into each target area.
- Track your accuracy and make adjustments to your technique as needed.
Practicing with the Srikel P1 Net helps simulate regulation play, even in smaller or improvised spaces.
Drill 2: Deep Return Practice
Goal: Hit deep returns to push your opponent back.
Setup: Requires a partner, ball machine, or wall.
How to Perform:
- Have your partner serve from the baseline.
- Focus on returning each serve deep—landing in the back third of the court.
- Practice both forehand and backhand returns.
A deep return limits your opponent’s options and gives you more time to move into an ideal position near the non-volley zone.
Drill 3: Serve and Split-Step Transition
Goal: Improve your transition and positioning after the serve.
What You Need: Paddle, cones, and the Srikel P1 Net.
How to Perform:
- Serve the ball and immediately perform a split-step.
- Move forward to prepare for the next shot.
- Repeat the drill, alternating court positions.
This drill helps you transition quickly and maintain balance between offense and defense.
Drill 4: Shadow Return Form
Goal: Refine return mechanics and footwork without a ball.
Perfect for Solo Practice.
How to Perform:
- Stand in ready position, imagining a serve coming toward you.
- Move through your return motion—either forehand or backhand.
- Repeat 10–15 times per side.
Shadow drills are excellent for building muscle memory and maintaining proper technique.
Drill 5: Anticipate and React
Goal: Train your reaction time and shot anticipation.
Best With a Partner.
How to Perform:
- Have your partner serve unpredictably—mixing in short, deep, and angled serves.
- Focus on reading the serve early and reacting quickly.
- Track your return accuracy and consistency.
This drill strengthens both your mental and physical agility.
Why Choose Srikel for Pickleball Training?
Srikel is a trusted name in pickleball gear, known for high-quality equipment tailored to every level of play. One of its most popular products, the Srikel P1 Net, offers:
- Portability for on-the-go training
- Regulation size and durable build
- Easy setup indoors or outdoors
Whether you’re practicing in your backyard or training with a team, Srikel’s gear ensures a professional-level experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best drills to improve my pickleball serve?
Target zone serving and transition drills help build consistency, accuracy, and effective court movement.
How can I return serves better in pickleball?
Focus on hitting deep returns and work on reaction drills to stay ahead in the rally.
What is the Srikel P1 Net used for?
The Srikel P1 Net is a portable, regulation-sized net that makes it easy to practice anywhere—perfect for both casual players and serious competitors.
Is Srikel gear suitable for beginners?
Yes, Srikel products are user-friendly and designed for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about improving your game, focus on building strong habits around serving and returning. These skills can dramatically shift your performance and confidence on the court. With consistent practice and high-quality tools like the Srikel P1 Net, you’ll see results faster.
Train smarter. Play better. Trust Srikel.