How to Hit the Best Forehand Drop in Pickleball

Forehand Drop Mastery: Lift, Shovel & Topspin Drops (When to Use Each)

In this Shot by Shot episode, I break down how to make your forehand drop more consistent by teaching three options: the lift (push) drop, the shovel drop, and the topspin drop. I explain that balance and a wide, low stance are essential, and I show how a continental grip and a laid-back wrist help the lift drop by keeping contact out in front while the wrist stays passive and stable. I then demonstrate the shovel drop for tougher balls at your feet or slightly behind/alongside you, using a different wrist hinge and a more side contact point. Finally, I cover the topspin drop as the most aggressive option, created mainly with a vertical swing path from the bicep/shoulder (not the wrist), and I outline game scenarios for choosing each drop and why you shouldn’t rush the net after a topspin drop.


00:00 Forehand Drop Overview
00:21 Lift Drop Basics
01:09 Laid Back Wrist Grip
02:04 Lift Drop Live Reps
02:54 Baseline Lift Drop Tips
03:41 Shovel Drop Technique
05:42 Shovel Drop Baseline Reps
06:20 Topspin Drop Mechanics
07:17 Topspin Drop Reps
09:06 When to Use Each Drop
09:25 Lift Drop Game Scenario
10:11 Shovel Drop Game Scenario
11:31 Topspin Drop Strategy
12:59 Final Keys and Wrap Up