Drills / 5 min read / reviewed July 2026
Serve drills that make every point easier to start
Build a calm, deep serve with targets, streaks, and a repeatable pre-serve rhythm.
Use one deep target, count legal serves in a row, and make the serve part of your complete first-three-ball sequence.
The deep-corner target
Set a cone or towel two feet inside the back corner. A serve that lands near it is useful; a serve that just catches the line is not necessary.
Ten calm serves
Serve ten balls with the same pace and motion. Restart if you rush the score call or your feet. You are practicing your full routine, not only contact.
Add the next ball
After each serve, have a partner send a return. Practice taking one balanced third ball instead of watching your serve.
Common questions
A little more clarity before you play.
What is the most important thing to know about pickleball serve drills?
Use one deep target, count legal serves in a row, and make the serve part of your complete first-three-ball sequence.
What should I try first at the court?
If the serve feels inconsistent, make it slower before you make it stronger.
What should I read next?
Continue with Check the serving basics. It is the next practical step in this learning path.