How to Hit a Z Serve in Racquetball

The Z serve is a cross-court shot that peters out in the back corner. To picture its flight path, think of the shape of the letter Z.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

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

1. Stand off-center inside the service area. You don't want to tip off your opponent, but when you stand closer to a side wall the angle of the serve becomes easier to hit.
2. Aim for a spot on the front wall roughly 6 feet off the ground and 1-2 feet from the cross-court side wall. As you move further from the middle, the spot you're aiming for moves away from the side wall.
3. Start your backswing.
4. Drop the ball.
5. Disguise your serve.
6. Hit the ball with power at the spot you chose on the front wall. The ball should hit the front wall and the side wall, angle across the court, then bounce beyond the service line and into the opposite side wall in the corner.

Tips & Warnings

• Hit the ball closer to the side wall if the ball hits the back wall before it hits the opposite side wall.
• Use less power on the serve if it bounces off the side wall behind you and too far from the corner.
• Variation 1: Aim for a spot higher on the front wall for a combination lob serve and Z serve.
• Variation 2: Pick a spot lower on the front wall for a combination drive serve and Z serve.
• If you have any 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.