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Hit overheads like a pro
Paul from Pickleball Daily
January 30, 2026
Tip of the day
PPA pro Michael Lloyd explains that the overhead smash in pickleball is fundamentally identical to a throwing motion, making it a highly intuitive skill once the proper mechanics are connected.
Approaching the overhead like a quarterback helps you engage your entire body and load your legs for maximum velocity rather than relying solely on your arm.
The "Separation" phase is critical; your first step back and your elbow pull-back should happen simultaneously to ensure you are ready before the ball arrives.
Many players feel rushed and swing too fast because they fail to separate early enough, leading to inconsistent contact and shanking the ball.
Reaching up at the contact point is essential for being able to drive the ball down toward the opponent's feet while maintaining a safe margin over the net.
The release point in a throw is equivalent to your contact point on a smash; contacting the ball too early or too high will send it long.
Effective footwork involves taking exactly as many steps as needed to get behind the ball, ensuring you are grounded before starting your upward reach.
A smooth, rhythmic cadence is more important than a high-speed swing, as momentum from the legs provides most of the power and stability.
If you don't come from a racket sports background, prioritizing your positioning and balance is the fastest way to improve your overhead consistency.
Practicing the motion without a paddle by throwing balls down toward the court can help solidify the connection between weight transfer and contact.
Key Points:
Treat your overhead smash like a throwing motion to naturally engage your legs and core for more effortless power.
Coordinate your first step backward with your elbow separation to avoid feeling rushed during the final part of the swing.
Focus on reaching upward to meet the ball at its highest point, allowing you to hit downward with more control.
Ensure you are fully grounded and balanced before initiating the swing to maximize both your accuracy and your smash velocity.
Maintain a smooth and consistent tempo throughout the motion to improve your timing and reduce the chance of unforced errors.
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Happy pickling,
Paul