Understanding the difference between the block volley and the punch volley—and knowing when to use each one—can give you a significant edge on the court. We’ve got the inside scoop from pickleball pro Dylan Goldman, who breaks down these essential shots and shows you exactly how to master them.
Keep reading to discover how to make these volleys work for you!
Block volley Vs. punch volley
Ever wondered what sets a block volley apart from a punch volley in pickleball? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Block Volley:
Think of the block volley as your go-to defensive move. When a ball comes at you fast and you don’t have time to react with a full swing, the block volley is your best friend.
Picture this: your paddle is like a shield. You position it in front of your body and let the ball bounce off, absorbing its pace. It’s not flashy, but it’s super effective for returning those unexpected, aggressive shots from your opponent.
The goal here is to reset the ball into your opponent’s kitchen, giving you time to regain control of the rally.
Punch Volley:
Now, the punch volley is your offensive powerhouse. When you have a bit more time and want to take charge of the game, the punch volley comes into play. Instead of just letting the ball hit your paddle, you add a quick, controlled push—like a little punch. This short, sharp motion generates more pace and directs the ball towards your opponent’s feet or an open space on the court. It’s all about turning the tables and putting your opponent on the defensive.
In a nutshell, use the block volley when you’re caught off guard and need to neutralize a fast shot. Switch to the punch volley when you want to attack and dictate the pace. Both are crucial shots in your pickleball arsenal, and mastering them will make you a more versatile and formidable player.
Dylan Goldman’s Block and Punch Volley Technique
For the block volley, Dylan emphasizes holding your paddle in front of your body to absorb the ball’s speed. For the punch volley, he recommends a quick, controlled motion to send the ball with more pace.
Want to see these tips in action? Check out Dylan’s demonstration:
Make sure to also check out our articles on improving your quick volleys and nailing the forehand flick volley.
Real Player Feedback, Tips & Tricks
Players have shared some great insights on the block and punch volleys. Many agree that the block volley is essential for consistency, likening it to a shield. “Just hold your paddle steady and let the ball bounce off. It’s not flashy, but it works every time.”
The punch volley is seen as a more advanced shot, adding a quick punch right before contact. “The punch volley is my go-to move 75% of the time,” another player shared. “You give it a quick pop, and it sends the ball deeper with more pace. It’s all about that controlled punch.”
One player noted that mastering the backhand punch volley had significantly improved their game. “It just became a natural part of my skill set and made a huge difference,” they explained. Another player highlighted the importance of keeping the wrist neutral to avoid injury. “Bending your wrist too much can lead to tennis elbow. Use your forearm and shoulder instead.”
Practicing the punch volley has been a game-changer, especially for smaller players facing bigger, harder-hitting opponents. “Using the punch volley allowed me to turn my opponents’ power against them,” a player noted.
Keep It Offensive, Practice Defensive
The block volley offers reliability and consistency, essential for defense, while the punch volley provides a powerful offensive tool. Remember, always aim to stay on the offensive, using defensive shots only when necessary.
By incorporating these volley techniques and practicing regularly, you’ll become a more versatile and effective player. Happy playing!
