5 Common Kitchen Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Pickleball Tips: 5 Common Kitchen Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

In pickleball, the kitchen (also known as the non-volley zone) is where the magic happens. It’s one of the most tactical areas on the court, but even experienced players often make mistakes here that can cost them the game. If you want to improve your pickleball strategy, it's worth spotting these common errors and learning how to avoid them.

1. Volleys in the Kitchen: The Rule Everyone Breaks

One of the most important rules in pickleball is to avoid volleying while standing in the kitchen. Still, it’s one of the most common mistakes. If you touch the kitchen or the kitchen line during a volley, it’s a fault.

How to fix it: Practice volleys just outside the non-volley zone. Focus on keeping your balance and controlling your movements during fast exchanges. A solid, stable stance will help prevent you from stepping in accidentally.

2. Dinking Without a Plan

Dinking isn’t just about getting the ball over the net. It’s a smart tactic to throw your opponent off balance and open up the court. But many players dink without intention, giving away control of the rally.

How to fix it: Be precise with your dinks. Aim for your opponent’s weaker side, use the sidelines, and mix up your placements. Low, soft dinks that pull your opponent wide can create opportunities. (Looking for a paddle that helps with finesse? Check out some of the best pickleball paddles for dinking.)

3. Crowding the Net

It might seem smart to get as close to the net as possible, but if you're too tight, you're wide open to lobs or quick shots at your feet.

How to fix it: Stand just behind the kitchen line. This keeps you close enough to handle dinks but gives you enough space to react to deeper shots. It’s the ideal position for both offense and defense.

4. Unsteady Footwork

Footwork matters more than you might think. If you're flat-footed or slow to move, you'll miss shots and lose points you could have won.

How to fix it: Train your lateral movement and practice staying light on your feet. Be ready to shift your stance quickly based on where the ball is going. Good footwork puts you in the right spot to make better shots.

5. Lack of Communication in Doubles

Doubles pickleball is all about teamwork. Without clear communication, you’ll end up with crossed signals, missed balls, and gaps in coverage—especially near the kitchen.

How to fix it: Talk with your partner throughout the game. Decide roles before you play and call out shots with simple words like “mine” or “yours.” Strong communication keeps your team coordinated and confident.

The kitchen is a crucial part of pickleball strategy. By avoiding these common mistakes and making a few key adjustments, you'll gain more control over rallies and start winning more games. It's not just about playing hard, it's about playing smart.

Now you know, it's time to hit the courts. Grab a Pickleball Paddle here at Picklepulse.