If you’ve been playing pickleball for a while, you’ve probably heard players, coaches, or even those self-proclaimed experts mention the continental grip. It is one of the most widely used and most versatile grips in the sport. Whether you’re new to pickleball or trying to clean up your fundamentals, the continental grip is one of those “small changes” that can instantly upgrade how clean, controlled, and confident your shots feel.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about what the continental grip is, how to find it, when to use it, and why so many advanced players rely on it.
What Is the Continental Grip in Pickleball?
Think of the continental grip as a neutral, all-purpose grip that sits right between the forehand and backhand sides of the paddle. We can also call it as the “default” grip in pickleball, because you can hit almost every shot with it without having to constantly adjust your paddle angle.
For those of you who have a background in tennis, the continental grip in pickleball is very similar to the tennis “continental” or “hammer grip,” except a little more relaxed due to the lighter paddle.
How to Find the Continental Grip
There are complicated diagrams that you will find online which make it look way more complicated than it actually is, so we broke it down into 5 simple steps:
- Hold your paddle like a hammer, just as if you’re about to pound a nail.
- Your index knuckle should land on the top-right bevel (for right-handed players).
- Your palm sits slightly behind the handle rather than under it.
- The paddle face should feel naturally vertical, not tilted.
The easiest way we can describe it is to think that you are shaking hands with the paddle. No twisting, no adjusting, just a natural handshake motion.
If your paddle feels neutral and relaxed in your hand, you’re doing it right.
Why the Continental Grip works so well in Pickleball
It’s the best grip for dinks and resets
The continental grip gives you a straight paddle face, that allows you to gently lift dinks and smooth out your drops. It also helps you cushion fast incoming balls during resets.
This is why almost every high-level doubles player you see at the kitchen line uses it.
Also Read: What are the different types of grips used in Pickleball
Quick transitions between forehand and backhand
Pickleball is fast, especially in doubles. You don’t always have time to rotate your grip.
With the continental grip, your paddle is already aligned for both sides.
Better control in the soft game
Because the paddle sits vertically in your hand, it’s easier to keep your paddle angle steady, which is essential for soft hands, precise drops, and consistent net play.
Excellent for volleys and counters
Fast-hands battles become smoother because you’re not fighting the paddle angle. You simply block and punch, and the ball goes where you expect.
Works well with T-700 carbon fiber paddles
Most raw carbon paddles create spin naturally. Combine that with the neutral face of the continental grip, and you get a controlled shape without having to over-whip your wrist.
When to Use the Continental Grip
You can use it for almost every shot in Pickleball which is why I highly recommend this grip for everyone who is just starting out in pickleball and paticularly for players from a non racket sport background.
The only time this grip is not so effective is when you want to hit a heavy topspin drives and very aggressive forehands. For those, you will need to switch to an Eastern forehand grip.
Also Read: Types of shots in Pickleball
Common Mistakes When Learning the Continental Grip
Holding the paddle too tightly
This grip works best with relaxed fingers and a soft wrist. If you’re squeezing too hard, dinks will float, and resets will bounce up as you are not letting the paddle absorb the impact of the ball.
Tilting the paddle face open
Beginners often open the face by accident, causing dinks to sail high. Keep the paddle vertical until you intentionally change the angle.
Switching grips too often
The whole point of the continental grip is its simplicity. Don’t overthink it, let it be your default, and rotate only when a shot truly demands it.
Using it on extreme topspin drives
It technically works, but it’s not comfortable. For power drives, most players rotate slightly toward an Eastern forehand.
How to Practice the Continental Grip
Kitchen Line Dink Drill
Just stand at the kitchen and dink 50 balls crosscourt or straight on. Focus on keeping the paddle face still.
Paddle-Up Volleys
Hold the paddle out in front of you and have a partner fire light volleys. Try to block them back using only your shoulder and minimal wrist.
Slow Drop Progressions
Start at the baseline and practice dropping balls into the kitchen. The continental grip will help the ball roll off the face instead of popping up.
Also Read: Best Solo Drills in Pickleball
Is the Continental Grip Right for You?
If you play doubles, the answer is almost always yes. If you play singles, you might mix in more forehand grip variations, but you’ll still rely on the continental grip for defense and touch.
It’s simple, reliable, and makes your game feel more connected, especially at the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
The continental grip isn’t some fancy pro-only technique. It’s the foundation of clean, controlled, and consistent pickleball. Whether you’re just starting or trying to level up from 3.0 to 4.0+, mastering this grip will make the game feel easier and more predictable.
And the best part?
It doesn’t require a massive swing change, just a comfortable, natural way of holding your paddle that supports every part of your game.