If you’re looking to add more power and topspin to your pickleball game, the Eastern forehand grip is one of the easiest ways to do it. While the continental grip is the go-to choice for net play and soft shots, many players naturally switch to an Eastern forehand grip when they want to attack from the baseline or put extra pace on the ball.
This grip isn’t complicated, but using it at the right time is what separates smart players from those who spray balls long.
What Is the Eastern Forehand Grip in Pickleball?
The Eastern forehand grip places your hand slightly more underneath the paddle compared to the continental grip. This position naturally closes the paddle face, making it easier to generate topspin and forward drive through the ball.
Think of it as the grip that helps you hit through the court rather than float the ball.
If you’ve played tennis before, this grip will feel very familiar.
If you are a complete beginner then you can learn how to hold a paddle properly here
How to Find the Eastern Forehand Grip
Here’s the simplest way to get into the correct position:
- Start with a continental grip
- Rotate your hand slightly clockwise (for right-handed players)
- Your index knuckle should rest on the third bevel of the handle
- The paddle face will feel just a bit closed
A good way to analyse if you are doing it right is:
If your forehand drive naturally dips into the court with topspin, you’re holding it correctly.
Why the Eastern Forehand Grip Is So Effective
Easy power without overswinging
This grip lets the paddle face stay closed through contact, so you don’t need to swing harder to generate pace. The ball drives forward instead of floating.
Natural topspin
Because your hand sits more under the paddle, brushing up the back of the ball feels automatic. This helps shots drop inside the baseline instead of sailing long.
Better depth on serves and returns
Many players use an Eastern forehand grip on serves and serve returns because it allows for consistent depth with margin.
Confidence on third-shot drives
If you prefer to drive your third shot instead of dropping it, this grip will give you more control and shape through the ball.
Best use cases of the Eastern Forehand Grip
The Eastern forehand grip shines in attacking situations:
- Baseline forehands
- Third-shot drives
- Deep serve returns
- Passing shots in singles
- Roll volleys from mid-court
- Forehand speed-ups
It’s especially popular among players who like to dictate play early in the rally.
When not to use the Eastern Forehand Grip
As good as it is to generate power, this grip does have certain limitations
Soft game struggles
Dinks, drops, and resets can pop up if you don’t open the paddle face intentionally. That’s why most players switch back to continental near the kitchen.
Also Read: Types of shots in Pickleball
Slower transitions at the net
Fast hands battles require quick forehand-to-backhand adjustments. With an Eastern grip, those transitions take longer.
Backhand inconsistency
Unless you’re using a two-handed backhand, the Eastern forehand grip isn’t friendly on the backhand side.
Common Mistakes Players Make
Holding the grip too extreme
Some players rotate too far, turning it into a semi-western grip. This causes balls to dive into the net.
Using it everywhere
The Eastern grip works best when used selectively. Trying to dink or block volleys with it often leads to errors.
Over-swinging
The grip already creates power. Swinging too hard reduces control instead of increasing it.
How Pros and Advanced Players Use This Grip
Most advanced players don’t commit to one grip for the entire point. Instead, they:
- Use continental at the net
- Switch to Eastern forehand at the baseline
- Rotate back quickly during transitions
This grip awareness is a big reason higher-level players look so smooth and controlled.
Simple Drills to Practice the Eastern Forehand Grip
Topspin Drive Drill
Stand at the baseline and focus on brushing up the ball while keeping shots inside the court.
Serve + Return Practice
Hit 20 serves and returns using only the Eastern grip and aim for deep targets.
Third-Shot Drive Consistency
Alternate between driving crosscourt and down the line without switching grips mid-swing.
Is the Eastern Forehand Grip Right for You?
If you’re a power-oriented player, a singles specialist, or someone who loves attacking from the baseline, the Eastern forehand grip can immediately upgrade your game.
For doubles players, it’s best used as a situational grip, not a full-time one.
Final Thoughts
The Eastern forehand grip is all about controlled aggression. Used correctly, it gives you easy power, natural topspin, and confidence on attacking shots. Just remember, it works best when paired with a solid continental grip for touch and net play.
Mastering when to switch between the two is one of the biggest steps toward becoming a smarter, more complete pickleball player.
Also Read: What are the different types of grips in Pickleball
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