Mastering the Art of the Lob in Pickleball: Top Strategies and Tips

Pickleball is a popular net game among young people today. Lob in on one of the signature shots in pickleball. Players frequently encounter this term when playing pickleball. So, what is a lob in pickleball?

A lob is a defensive shot where you hit the ball high over your opponent’s head and land deep in their backcourt. The primary purpose of striking a lob is to allow yourself or your partner time to get back into an excellent defensive position.

The lob is usually performed in response to an opponent’s hard shot that is difficult to return directly. By lobbing, you can get the ball back in play and force your opponent to run around to retrieve the ball. 

In short, a lob is a defensive shot that hits the ball high over the opponent’s head to buy time to get back into a good position.

The Strategy Behind Lobs

Lobs are not just random shots you hit and hope for the best–they require a tactical approach. Pickleball has two main types of lobs, each serving different purposes.

Offensive Lobs

When you’re on the attack and want to gain the upper hand, offensive lobs come into play. They typically hit these lobs when you’re close to the kitchen line (non-volley zone), catching your opponents off guard and forcing them to retreat. The objective here is to create an opening for you or your partner to put the ball away with a decisive winner.

Defensive Lobs

On the flip side, defensive lobs are your lifesaver when you’re stuck in a challenging situation. If you find yourself under pressure or pushed back from the net, a defensive lob can be your ticket out. It gives you time to recover, regroup, and return to a favorable position.

When Should You Hit A Lob In Pickleball?

There are several situations in a pickleball game when hitting a lob can be a wise choice:

 1. Dealing With Smashes

The most common situation to lob is when your opponent hits a smash. Smashes are hard to return directly because the ball comes at an incredible speed and angle.

If you try to return a smash directly, there is a high likelihood of hitting the ball out or into the net. Therefore, the lob is a great option to return an opponent’s smash and buy some time.

2. Opening Up The Court

Sometimes, the play can get very intense in the kitchen area. As you and your opponent trade short shots near the net, hitting a lob can be an effective way to “open up” the court and force your opponent back.

It provides an opportunity to move forward and gain control of the rally. So use the lob to change the pace if the play gets too focused in the net area.

3. Disrupting Your Opponent’s Patterns

A strategically hit lob can also disrupt your opponent’s patterns and anticipation. Mixing up your shots by adding a lob can be difficult for your opponent to anticipate.

They may need more time to be ready to run back or even mistakenly think the ball is going out. You can gain an advantage and win the point with this.

So use the lob sporadically to disrupt the rhythm and patterns of your opponent’s game. It will make it hard for them to read your shots.

How To Execute The Lob Properly In Pickleball

For the lob to be effective, there are some key techniques you need to master:

1. Proper Stance

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Lock your wrist and swing the paddle from your shoulder. A steady and reliable swing will result from doing this. Avoid swinging from the elbow only, as it won’t loft the ball well.

2. Correct Ball Contact

Aim to strike the back of the ball and avoid contacting it too close to the center net. The ideal contact is on the top 1/3 of the ball. As a result, the ball will acquire a backspin and consistently float.

3. Hit The Ball Upwards

Direct your swing approximately 45° up from the net. This will make the ball arc high over your opponent’s head. Don’t lob too steeply, or the ball can go directly out.

4. Mind the Direction

Try to aim your lobs toward one of the back corners of your opponent’s court, away from their reach. Don’t just float the ball into the middle of the court, as this will make it easy for your opponent to return.

5. Stay Focused

After hitting the lob, immediately recover back to a defensive position. Watch the ball and get ready for the next shot from your opponent. Stay focused after executing the lob.

Those are five fundamental techniques you must master for your lob to be effective in pickleball games. With accurate and consistent lobs, you can force your opponents into trouble and gain many advantages in the game.

Common Mistakes When Hitting The Lob In Pickleball

While it looks simple, many beginners must correct their mistakes when hitting lobs. Here are three common errors to avoid:

1. Not Locking The Wrist

Many hit lobs just by swinging their arm. Due to this, controlling the lob’s direction and height is challenging. Be sure to lock your wrist for more consistent lobs.

2. Contacting The Top Of The Ball

Striking the top of the ball will cause it to arc too high and be challenging to control. Aim for ball contact around the top 1/3 of the ball for accurate lobs.

3. Lobbing Too Close To The Net

Many tend to lob too close to the net, allowing their opponent to return it quickly. Ensure your lobs are deep enough, usually around 2/3 to the back of the court.

Tips For Hitting Effective Lobs In Pickleball

Here are some tips for hitting more effective lobs in pickleball games:

• Use lobs to change pace and move your opponent around. Don’t overuse lobs consecutively.
•  Mix in slice or topspin lobs to create variation. Your lobs will be more challenging to interpret as a result.

•  Hit high lobs to the corners when your opponent is out of position. It will make them have to flee.
•  Use lower lobs if your opponent is already near the baseline to draw mistakes.
•  Read the ball off your lob. Quickly get back to the baseline, ready for your opponent’s next shot.
•  Regular practice will help you become proficient at hitting lobs without thinking too much.

With accurate and variable lobs, your game will surely improve. Feel free to use lobs at the right moments in the game.

So there you have it, a comprehensive explanation of what a lob is in pickleball. Master the lob techniques properly and use them wisely in your game strategy. This information can help improve your pickleball game. Happy practicing and playing!

“An effective lob can instantly turn the tide of a game.”

Conclusion: Master The Lob For Better Pickleball Play

Every pickleball player must learn to do the lob. It can change the game’s speed, move your opponent, and give you an advantage to score points. But use only a few lobs, or your shots will become predictable.

Mix it up with different strokes for variety. After lobbing, always return to the baseline to prepare for your opponent’s counterattack. Practice lob techniques often to get good at them. Your pickleball game will be more enjoyable if you can hit lobs consistently.

FAQs About Lobs In Pickleball

Here are some common questions and answers about lob techniques in pickleball:

When is the right time to hit a lob in pickleball?

Answer: Lobs work best to counter smashes, open the court when play is tight at the net, and disrupt your opponent’s patterns.

Is it better to hit high or low lobs?

Answer: High lobs are more effective at forcing your opponent far back. But short lobs can be used if your opponent is already near the baseline to draw mistakes.

Where is the ideal ball contact point for hitting lobs?

Answer: The ideal contact is around the top 1/3 of the back of the ball. As a result, the floating lob will have a more consistent backspin.

How can I hit consistent lobs?

Answer: Lock your wrist, swing from the shoulder, and contact the upper back of the ball. Frequent practice is also crucial to consistency.

What is the ideal defensive position after hitting a lob?

Answer: After lobbing, immediately recover to the baseline. Maintain focus, watch the ball, and prepare for your opponent’s next shot.