The dink is one of the most essential shots in pickleball. If you want to compete at higher levels, mastering this soft, controlled shot is crucial. In this guide, we’ll cover how to dink in pickleball, the fundamentals of dinking, including grip, technique, and practice drills. By the end, you’ll have the tools to improve your game even if you don’t have a practice partner!

Watch the full video here.

Part 1: The Fundamentals of How to Dink in Pickleball 

A dink is a soft shot that lands just over the net in the non-volley zone (kitchen). The primary goal of a dink is to hit an unattackable shot that forces your opponent into a defensive position or an error. Here’s how to master this important skill.

1. Grip: The Foundation of a Good Dink

Your grip is critical when you’re learning how to dink in pickleball. For beginners, the Continental grip is the best option. To hold your paddle correctly:

• Pretend you’re shaking someone’s hand and grip the paddle the same way.
• Check that the base knuckle of your index finger is aligned with the second notch on the paddle’s handle.
• This grip will give you the control you need to maintain consistency.

Grip Strength: Stay Loose

When dinking, your grip should be relaxed—aim for a grip strength of 3 to 4 out of 10. Think of it like squeezing a tube of toothpaste: firm but not too tight. If you’re popping the ball up too high, try releasing the bottom three fingers from the handle to experiment with a looser grip.

Swing: Use Your Shoulder

A successful dink comes from a pendulum motion using your shoulder, not your wrist or elbow. Keep your arm stable, and swing from low to high. The motion should resemble a smooth, consistent arc, like tossing a bean bag in cornhole.

The Ready Position: Be Prepared

When you’re not dinking, be in the ready position. Hold your paddle chest-high and be prepared for a quick response. I prefer to angle my paddle slightly toward my backhand, which allows for quicker defense against speed-ups.

Part Two: How to Dink in Pickleball: 5 Keys to Dinking Success

Here are five bulletproof tips to elevate your dinking game:

• Keep your eye on the ball: Many players make the mistake of looking away too soon, leading to errors. Focus on watching the ball from contact to follow-through.
• Keep the ball out front: Avoid hitting the ball when it’s behind you. Instead, hit it early and keep it in front, whether you’re using a forehand or backhand.
• Respect the net: Give your dinks enough lift to clear the net, but don’t flirt with it. Ensure the ball has plenty of margin over the net.
• Hit with purpose: Don’t dink directly to your opponent. Aim for their backhand, their feet, or between them to force an error or a pop-up.
• Practice makes perfect: Even if you don’t have a partner, practice dinking against a wall. Use tape to mark a net height and kitchen line, and work on keeping your shots controlled.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the dink in pickleball will transform your game. By focusing on grip, swing mechanics, and intentional shot placement, you’ll become a more strategic and effective player. Don’t forget to practice regularly and experiment with your grip strength to find what works best for you.