Common Mistakes Beginner Pickleball Players Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Pickleball is taking over courts all over Spain, and every day new players eager to improve are joining. But like any beginning, mistakes are normal. In this article, we'll tell you the most common mistakes beginners make... and, most importantly, how to avoid them so you can enjoy the game to the fullest from the very first point.
1. Playing with an inappropriate paddle
The mistake: Many players start with a borrowed paddle that's too heavy or made with materials that aren't suited to their level, which makes learning difficult and can cause physical discomfort.
The solution: Choosing a paddle that suits your style and level is key. At EPYK, we've designed models like the Pegasus, ideal for beginners thanks to its lightness and maneuverability, or the Apolo, perfect if you're looking for balance and progression.
You can visit our article on how to choose your perfect pickleball paddle.
2. Staying stuck to the back of the track
The mistake: Many beginners stay on the baseline, even after serving. This greatly limits their playing options and makes it easier for opponents to take control at the net.
The solution: After the third shot, the ideal is to advance to the "kitchen zone" and dominate from there. Pickleball is won at the net.
3. Not knowing the basic rules
The mistake: Although it's an accessible sport, pickleball has its own rules, such as the "double bounce" or the peculiar no-volley zone (the famous kitchen), which can confuse those coming from tennis or padel.
The solution: Take a few minutes to review the ground rules before hitting the track. You can read our ground rules guide on the EPYK blog or follow us on Instagram to stay up-to-date on our educational posts.
4. Hitting the ball too hard
The Mistake: Sometimes, in the heat of the game, we tend to hit the ball with unnecessary force, causing unforced errors or sending the ball out.
The solution: Control is more important than power. Practice smooth strokes and focus on placement rather than speed. For this, thick-core paddles like the Hera or Poseidon from EPYK offer a great sense of control without sacrificing power.
5. Lack of communication in doubles
The mistake: In doubles matches, many points are lost by not speaking to your partner: “mine!”, “yours!”, “up!”, “stay!”… Silence is not a good sign on the court.
The solution: Talk during the game. Establish signals and connect with your partner from the warm-up. Pickleball, after all, is also a team sport.
6. Not moving or positioning yourself correctly
The mistake: Hitting from a static or improvised position, without adjusting the body, is typical in the first matches and often leads to errors.
The solution: Stay mobile, bend your legs slightly, and be prepared to adjust your stance before each shot. Good mobility makes you look like a seasoned player much sooner than you think.
7. Not using the proper equipment
The mistake: Playing in running shoes or clothing that restricts your movement. It seems like a minor detail, but it can make all the difference… and prevent injuries.
The solution: Wear shoes with good lateral traction and lightweight technical clothing. At EPYK, we're working on a clothing line specifically designed for pickleball players. More news coming soon!
Conclusion: failing is also learning
No one starts out as a pro, and making mistakes is part of the process. But knowing and correcting them will allow you to enjoy pickleball much faster. At EPYK, we're here to support you from the first shot, with products designed to help you grow in this sport that continues to gain popularity in Spain.
Have you identified with any of these mistakes?
Follow us on social media and tell us about your experience. And if you're just starting out, explore our beginner paddles at epyk.es and choose the one that best suits you.