I've coached dozens of beginners and the same three mistakes come up every single time.

1. You're swinging too hard.

Pickleball isn't tennis. Power comes from placement, not muscle. The best players on your local courts barely look like they're trying — because they're not. They're placing the ball where you can't reach it. Drop the power, focus on placement.

2. You're afraid of the kitchen.

The non-volley zone is where points are won. Most beginners hang out at the baseline because it feels safe. But you're giving up the entire court. Get comfortable moving forward and dinking. It feels slow at first. Then it becomes your biggest weapon.

3. You're not watching the ball long enough.

You're already looking where you want to hit before you make contact. Keep your eyes on the ball through the paddle. Your accuracy will jump overnight.

Start with these three fixes and you'll be beating people who've been playing twice as long as you within a month.

I break down stuff like this every week inside Pickle Pro — drills, technique videos, and a community of beginners all leveling up together.