99% of players hold their paddle wrong. Hold your grip like this instead.
by Austin Hardy on June 15, 2026
Everything you need to know about how to hold a pickleball paddle — all in one video. We break down every major grip style including the Eastern forehand, Eastern backhand, Continental, Hybrid, Semi-Western, and Western grips, so you can find the one that fits your game.
Beyond grip style, we dive into one of the most underrated techniques in the game: grip position on the handle. Choking up toward the throat of the paddle gives you faster hand speed at the kitchen — and yes, you can still hit a two-handed backhand from that position.
Your grip is the only connection between you and the paddle — getting it right changes everything. If you’ve ever searched how to hold a pickleball paddle, this is the video you’ve been looking for.
Cheers,
- Coach Austin Hardy
PS. Thanks for all your support. I really hope you find these instructional videos valuable and enjoy watching them as much as I enjoy making them!