Dominate the Court: 4 Power Strategies to Win Big in Doubles Pickleball

Doubles pickleball isn’t just about soft shots and dinks; sometimes, bringing the power is exactly what you need to get the edge over your opponents. But harnessing power in pickleball requires more than just hitting hard – it’s about timing, positioning, and teamwork. When you use power wisely, you can control the game’s pace and keep your opponents on the defensive. Here are the four best strategies to make your power game unstoppable in doubles pickleball.

1. Drive and Crash

Strategy: Start with a powerful drive on the serve return or from midcourt, aiming low over the net. Immediately, both players advance to the non-volley zone (NVZ) line, ready to intercept a weak return or set up for the next shot.

Why It Works: This aggressive move forces your opponents to react quickly, often resulting in a high return that you can put away. By advancing to the NVZ line, you’re in an optimal position to control the rally.

Pro Tip: Target your drives low at your opponents' feet or directly at their bodies to minimize their control over the return.

2. Attack the Middle

Strategy: When using power, aim your shots toward the centerline between your opponents. This can cause confusion as they decide who should return the shot, especially when hit with speed and placement.

Why It Works: The middle is often a “no man’s land” in doubles where both players hesitate, creating a split-second delay. A well-placed shot to the middle can result in a weak return or a mistake.

Pro Tip: Hit hard to the middle but vary the height to keep your opponents guessing. Sometimes a low, skidding shot is more effective than a high-powered drive.

3. Fake-Out Flick

Strategy: Set up as if you’re about to dink or go for a soft shot, but at the last moment, flick your wrist to add speed and turn it into a surprise power shot.

Why It Works: This element of surprise keeps your opponents off balance, especially if they’re expecting a softer rally. When done well, it disrupts their rhythm and forces errors.

Pro Tip: Practice this with your partner to avoid telegraphing the flick. Subtlety and timing are key to making this move effective.

4. Switch Up the Speed

Strategy: Alternate between hard drives and softer, controlled shots. After a powerful rally, mix in a sudden dink or a drop shot to pull your opponents out of position, then follow up with another power shot to finish the point.

Why It Works: Constant power can become predictable. By varying your speed, you’ll keep your opponents on their toes and control the pace, making it hard for them to establish a rhythm.

Pro Tip: Communicate with your partner to plan when to switch up the pace, so you’re both prepared to execute the follow-up shot together.

Mastering the power game in doubles pickleball isn’t just about hitting hard – it’s about knowing when to use power, where to place your shots, and how to keep your opponents guessing. Implement these four strategies, and you’ll be ready to dominate any match with skill, control, and smart power plays.