Your service stance in pickleball can significantly influence your game. Whether you're aiming for power, spin, or balance, understanding the pros and cons of different stances can elevate your serve. Pro player Bobbi Oshiro breaks down the common service stances and their unique advantages.

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1. The Open Stance

The open stance is characterized by feet and hips aligned slightly parallel to the baseline. Tyson McGuffin, a top pro player, is a prime example of this stance in action.

• Advantages: This stance helps generate more topspin, often resulting in a serve with a noticeable arch. By loading the dominant leg and efficiently rotating the hips, players can get underneath the ball to add that extra spin.
• Ideal For: Players who want to add a curve to their serve and aim to challenge opponents with unpredictable ball movement.

2. The Closed Stance

In the closed stance, feet and hips are positioned slightly perpendicular to the baseline. Dekel Bar, known for his powerful serves, often uses this stance.

• Advantages: This position typically produces a flatter and faster serve. The perpendicular alignment allows for a more direct and forceful ball trajectory.
• Ideal For: Players looking to dominate with speed and power, keeping opponents on the defensive.

3. The Semi-Open Stance

The semi-open stance is a hybrid of the open and closed stances. According to Bobbi Oshiro, this stance offers a balanced approach.

• Advantages: It provides versatility, enabling players to switch between generating topspin and delivering a flatter serve when needed.
• Ideal For: Players seeking a middle ground between power and spin, offering adaptability to different match situations.

Finding Your Perfect Serve Stance

Each stance has its unique strengths, so the key is experimenting to discover what suits your playing style. Whether you’re aiming to outspin, outpace, or outmaneuver your opponent, your service stance can be a game-changer. Take inspiration from the pros, hit the court, and start fine-tuning your serve today!