The paddle is the primary equipment of Pickleball which is used to hit the wiffle ball on the other side of the net within bounds. The paddler’s grip draws resemblance to that of tennis. Thus, the pattern of gripping the paddle is eerily similar to the one used in tennis.
There are three ways to grip a Pickleball pattern. All three patterns of gripping are names after their corresponding grip patterns used in tennis.
Eastern Grip
There are eight bevels on the Pickleball paddle. The Eastern grip is one where the area of the hand where index finger meets the palm falls on the third level. An easy way to learn this grip is by imagining that you are making a handshake with your paddle. This technique is the most versatile as it allows the player easy movement of the wrist on both the forehand and the backhand wing. The Eastern Grip is popular for it is easier to learn. However, a shortcoming of this technique is that almost every shot is monotonous, and inculcating spin or pace on it would be difficult. Pickleball players often prefer one of their shots (forehand or backhand) to be more dominant so that they can startegize accordingly. The Eastern grip might not allow that easily.
Continental Grip
The Continental grip is one of the most famous techniques as it it’s gripping style resembles the manner of gripping a hammer. In this grip style, the base of thenindex finger will fall on the third level. Hitting a backhand is the most advantageous with this grip style. On the contrary, it would difficult to execute forehand shots due to the restricted movement of the wrist in this style.
Western Grip
The Western grip is one where the hand aligns with the fourth bevel. It is often compared to the position of the hand while holding a frying pan or swatting a fly. This technique is the best for hitting heavy topspins and pace. This is because of the face of the paddle that gradually opens up as the contact with the ball is made. The Western grip however is not the most ideal gripping style for hitting a backhand. Pickleball players who use a forehand for a Western grip, most often hit a two-handed backhand with the same technique.
Professional pickleball players can change their grip pattern in-between a rally to execute the best possible shot from both wings. They master this by holding the grip not too tight, keeping it to 30% to 40% grip power. Pickleball gripping styles thus directly influence a player’s shot-making ability.
