Develop a consistent and legal serve

A reliable serve puts the ball in play and sets the tone for the rally. Focus on consistency before adding power or spin. The serve must be underhand with contact below the waist.

Types of Serves

• Flat/power serve: Straightforward, no-spin hit with maximum speed to pressure opponents
• Topspin serve: Brush upward on the ball causing it to dip faster. Great for consistency and deep placement
• Slice serve: Brush across the side of the ball to curve it away from the opponent
• Soft serve: Contact gently so the ball lands just past the kitchen line near the corner

Tips

• You may spin the ball with your paddle at contact, but you cannot manipulate the ball with your hand before the toss
• Position feet shoulder-width apart with 60% weight on the back foot, then shift forward during the swing
• Practice the drop serve first — it removes paddle position restrictions and builds confidence