How to Generate Maximum Power in Pickleball Drives and Putaways

Main Points

• Power comes from the body, not the arm—focus on hips and shoulders
• Use a unit turn (hips + shoulders + non-dominant arm) to generate force
• Closed stance helps beginners naturally engage full-body rotation
• Open stance limits power if hips aren’t properly engaged
• Keep the arm relaxed and controlled—avoid forcing power with the arm
• More rotation leads to increased topspin, control, and forward momentum
• Driving with momentum helps transition effectively to the kitchen line
• The same mechanics apply to forehands, backhands, and overheads
• For putaways, use rotation instead of arm strength for explosive power
• Bend knees and generate power from the ground up

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Summary

This video focuses on a fundamental shift in how players generate power in pickleball. Instead of relying on the arm, the emphasis is placed on using the entire body through a concept called the unit turn. By rotating the hips and shoulders together while incorporating the non-dominant arm, players can dramatically increase the force behind their drives and putaways.

A key insight is that many players limit their power by staying too controlled and relying on arm movement alone. This results in weaker shots and less consistency. When proper rotation is introduced, players not only hit harder but also gain better spin and shot quality. The added momentum also improves court positioning, especially when transitioning toward the kitchen line after a drive.

For putaways at the net, the same principle applies. Players often struggle because they tighten their arm in an attempt to control the shot. However, true power comes from a loose arm combined with strong body rotation. By generating force from the ground up—starting with the legs and transferring through the hips and shoulders—players can hit more aggressive, controlled finishing shots.

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Tags: Drive | Forehand Drive | Kinetic Chain | Mari Humberg | tanner.pickleball