Racquetball Serving Tips

Serving is one of the most important aspects in the game of racquetball. It sets the initial tone for a rally and a well-placed serve can lead to a quick point. There are multiple ways to serve, with varying speeds, spins and placements. But serves are generally broken down into either an offensive or defensive categories.

  1. Offensive Serving

    • The offensive serve is usually done on first serve attempt. The most common type is called the drive serve, a low, hard shot aimed toward either back corner. Use this serve to try for an ace. Second, a jam serve is another sharply hit shot at a difficult angle. Use this serve to try to get an opponent off balance. Third, a pinch serve is similar to a drive serve in that it is hit hard, low, with little bounce, and almost no spin. Instead of aiming toward the back corners, the server aims just beyond the edge of the service box.

    Defensive Serving

    • The defensive serve is usually done on the second service attempt. This type of serve is not meant for an ace, but to set up a weak return shot, therefore setting up a potential winning shot. The most common type is called the plain lob serve, a long shot attempted to land as close to the back wall as possible. Another type of shot is the junk lob, hit somewhere between the dotted receiving line and the back wall.

    Serving Stance

    • If you are right-handed, start with your right foot at the back of the service box while facing the right side of the front wall. The opposite applies for a left-handed player. Start with your feet shoulder-width apart and a slightly staggered stance. Make sure your body is balanced and you are in good position to maximize power.

    Transfer of Body Weight

    • For a right-handed player, when you are ready to serve, much of your weight should start in your right foot (back foot). As you take a step forward, your body weight should transfer from the right foot to the left foot (front foot). When you are about to serve, much of your body weight will be in your left foot and left side of the body, the same direction of the serve. This will result in maximized power and a stronger serve.

    Serving Swing

    • When transferring body weight from the right foot to the left foot, your racket should be moving back and up at about a 45 degree angle. Once your shoulder is fully extended, bring the racket across your body and strike the ball after bouncing it off the floor. Completely follow through with your swing so your racket hand is next to your ear. Momentum will generally turn you to face the wall and set you up for a counter shot if your opponent successfully returns your serve.