The two handed grip in pickleball has gone from being a niche technique to something you now see regularly at higher levels of play. What used to feel unconventional is quickly becoming normal, especially on the backhand side.
If you’ve ever struggled with backhand consistency, lacked power from the baseline, or felt rushed during fast exchanges, a two-handed grip might be exactly what your game needs.
Before proceeding further, I would like to reemphasize the fact that the only way these grips will help improve your game is by doing drills regularly. Use rec games as a source of enjoyment, and if you are serious about improving in Pickleball, then drills are the only way to get there.
What Is a Two-Handed Grip in Pickleball?
A two-handed grip in pickleball simply means using both hands on the paddle handle during a shot, most commonly on the backhand. The dominant hand stays at the base of the handle, while the non-dominant hand is placed above it for support, leverage, and control.
This grip borrows heavily from tennis mechanics, but it’s adapted for pickleball’s shorter swings and quicker pace.
Most players don’t use a two-handed grip for every shot; instead, they rely on it in specific situations where stability and power matter.
Benefits of the Two-Handed Grip in Pickleball
More stability on the backhand
One-handed backhands can feel shaky under pressure, especially when the ball comes fast. The second hand stabilizes the paddle and reduces wrist breakdown, which leads to cleaner contact.
Easier power without overswinging
With two hands on the paddle, you can generate power using your shoulders and core rather than your arm alone. This makes baseline backhands and counterattacks feel more controlled.
Better control on fast balls
During speed-ups and fast-hand battles, the two-handed grip keeps the paddle face steady. Blocks and counters tend to stay lower instead of popping up.
Confidence against aggressive opponents
When opponents target your backhand, having two hands on the paddle removes that feeling of being rushed or exposed.
When the Two-Handed Grip Works Best
The two-handed grip will make you feel more comfortable when pace and pressure are involved. For eg, if your opponent has a good serve and he/she is serving deep onto your backhand, countering it with a double-handed backhand drive will help you give a deep return, which will force your opponent to stay at the baseline.
It’s especially effective for:
- Backhand drives from the baseline
- Two-handed roll volleys
- Countering speed-ups at the kitchen
- Returning hard serves
- Backhand passing shots in singles
Many players also use a two-handed grip on overhead backhands when they’re stretched wide.
When you should not use the Two-Handed Grip in Pickleball
Despite its benefits, the two-handed grip isn’t perfect.
Limited reach
Using two hands shortens your reach slightly. On wide balls or quick flicks near the net, a one-handed shot may be the better option.
Slower transitions
If you’re late getting into position, adding the second hand can slow your reaction time. This is why many players switch back to one hand for reflex volleys.
Not ideal for soft shots
Dinks and resets often require a softer touch and wrist freedom. Two hands can make those shots feel stiff unless you deliberately relax the grip. Although this is debatable, as I do recommend two-handed dinks on the backhand side, but the trick is to get into position quickly and identify when to use both hands.
How to Hold a Two Handed Grip Correctly
The most common setup looks like this:
- Dominant hand at the base of the handle (continental or slight eastern)
- Non-dominant hand above it, usually in an eastern forehand position
- Both hands relaxed, not squeezing
The non-dominant hand does more work than most players realize. Think of it as guiding the paddle rather than just supporting it.
Pro tip: During drills, hit the first 20-30 balls using only your non-dominant hand and then gradually use both hands once you have got a good rhythm going with your non-dominant hand.
Two-Handed Backhand vs One-Handed Backhand
The two-handed backhand offers more consistency and power, especially under pressure. The one-handed backhand provides more reach and finesse, which can be helpful at the kitchen.
That’s why many advanced players use both grips, two hands for drives and counters, one hand for touch and emergency shots.
Popular opinion: Having a two-handed backhand drive in Pickleball makes you as stylish as having a single-handed backhand drive in Tennis.
Do Pros Use a Two-Handed Grip in Pickleball?
Yes, now more than ever. Many top players rely on a two-handed backhand, particularly during fast-paced rallies and aggressive baseline exchanges. The modern game of pickleball is faster, equipements are co,n,stantly upgrading, and the two-handed grip helps players keep up without losing control.
It’s no longer seen as a beginner crutch. It’s a legitimate, high-level technique.
Common Mistakes Players Make
Holding the paddle too tight
Tension kills control. A relaxed grip leads to better touch and quicker reactions.
Using it for every shot
The two-handed grip works best when used selectively. Forcing it into every situation limits your versatility.
Standing too close to the ball
Two-handed shots need space. Good footwork is essential.
How to Practice the Two-Handed Grip
Start simple:
- Rally crosscourt using only two-handed backhands
- Play out a few balls with your non-dominant hand (This is only during drill practice and not warm-ups)
- Practice blocking speed-ups with both hands
- Hit baseline drives focusing on shoulder rotation, not arm swing
Consistency comes from repetition, not power.
Is the Two-Handed Grip Right for You?
The two-handed grip is a great option if:
- Your backhand feels like a weakness
- You face a lot of pace-heavy opponents
- You want more control during fast exchanges
- You play singles or aggressive doubles
If your game is built around touch and finesse at the kitchen, you may only need it occasionally. However, I recommend having the Two-handed backhand in every player’s arsenal.
Final Thoughts
The two-handed grip in pickleball isn’t just a trend, as it is a response to how fast Pickleball has become. Used correctly, it adds stability, confidence, and power without sacrificing control.
The key is knowing when to use it and when to let go. Once you find that balance, the two-handed grip becomes a reliable tool rather than a limitation.
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