How to Hit a Drive Serve in Racquetball

The drive serve is similar to the fastball in baseball because it is designed to overpower an opponent.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Racquetball Goggles
• Racquetball Rackets
• Racquetballs
• Water Bottles With Squeeze Caps

1. Decide you're hitting a drive serve before you set yourself in the service area.
2. Pick which back corner you want the ball to finish in.
3. Stand at the back line of the service area.
4. Obstruct your opponent's vision by dropping the ball between your body and her or his line of sight.
5. Bounce the ball low to the ground.
6. Pull your racquet arm as far back as is comfortable in a backswing.
7. Hit the ball off the bounce when it's still low to the ground.
8. Aim for a spot 3-4 feet above the ground on the front wall. Ideally, the ball will bounce just beyond the service line, stay low to the ground, and bounce again before hitting the back wall.
9. Use varying amounts of power on the drive serve as the situation dictates.

Tips & Warnings

• Keeping the ball low and hard is key. Your opponent's return options shrink drastically when the ball is close to the ground. And reaction time decreases if the ball is hit with speed.
• A little backspin can be effective, but avoid putting topspin on the ball to keep it from bouncing higher.
• Try to avoid a rebound off the back wall by keeping the ball low to the ground.
• Be prepared to return this common serve as well.
• If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.