pickleball swing check/learn/serve into net
Why does my pickleball serve keep hitting the net?
Updated August 2026 · 2-minute read
Your pickleball serve hits the net because your swing is too short or you hit the ball too late. To fix this, use a longer upward swing and contact the ball out in front of your body. This makes the ball arc up and over the net.
How to tell
- Ball consistently hits the net tape.
- Serve feels flat, not arcing.
- You hit the ball at your side or behind you.
- Your paddle stops short after contact.
Why it matters
A higher, arcing serve gives you more margin for error over the net. It also lands deeper in the service box, making it harder for your opponent to return aggressively. This sets you up for a better third shot.
The fix
- Swing Up. Focus on a long, upward path with your paddle. Finish high, pointing at the sky.
- Hit In Front. Drop the ball slightly ahead of your body. Reach forward to make contact.
- Arc It. Imagine lifting the ball over a tall fence, not just pushing it forward.
One cue makes it click: Up and out, then over the net.
2-minute drill
Try this 2-minute solo drill to fix your serve.
- Stand facing a wall. Practice your serve swing, aiming to finish high.
- Drop a ball and swing, focusing on hitting it in front and up the wall.
- Repeat 10 times, feeling the upward motion and forward contact.
Related fixes
Check yours in 10 seconds
Not sure if it's you? Film a 10-second shadow swing and the free Pickleball Swing Check will tell you — it gives you one thing to work on.