There are several pickleball grips, such as Western Forehand, Continental and Eastern Forehand. Among these, we will discuss the Pickleball Eastern Forehand Grip in detail.
In this article, we will know the Eastern Forehand grip, how you can identify it, and its pros and cons. So having it in mind, let us explore the topic.
Also Read: What is a Pickleball Overgrip?
Easiest Way to Identify the Eastern Forehand Grip
First, you should know that many beginners find this type of grip really easy to understand and acquire. That is why you will find it helpful whether you are a pro or a beginner.
Meanwhile, you might be thinking there are numerous ways on the internet to know the Eastern Forehand Grip. But is there a simpler one to identify it?
To your surprise, yes!
In the given section, I have discussed the easiest way to know about this Grip. So let us jump into it.
The simplest way to know the Eastern Forehand Grip is to place your hand flat on the face of the pickleball paddle. Then smoothly move it down to the handle and hold it. That is it!
Another Name of the Eastern Forehand Grip
It is also called a Handshake Grip. There are several benefits of the Eastern Forehand Grip. Some of which I have mentioned below.
- This grip provides a good neutral paddle angle on the forehand side. It helps you, specifically during hard plays, when you hit the balls low. Besides, do you know the topspin needs you to acquire a low to a high-hitting path?
Yes! It specifically requires this path. It is where Pickleball Eastern Forehand Grip helps you by providing a neutral paddle angle. This angle helps you hit balls with topspin and then avoid the balls from crossing the boundaries.
- With this grip, your hand is already in a balanced position to play peacefully. The reason for it is your forehand method, in this case, because your hand is behind the handle when hitting the ball.
Disadvantages of the Eastern Forehand Grip
Although this type of grip has multiple advantages, some of its disadvantages also exist. These are discussed below:
- Holding the paddle with the Eastern Forehand Grip is profitable for forehand shots. But it becomes challenging in the backhand shots because your hand is in front of the handle and hence in a weaker situation.
- The paddle face moves upward when you hit the ball with a backhand force. Therefore, the Eastern grip can’t help you in keeping the balls low.
Related: How to Regrip a Pickleball Paddle
Solutions for Using Pickleball Eastern Forehand Grip when Playing Backhand
- First, you need to consciously twist your hand and wrist to get a neutral paddle angle.
- Second, you must keep the Eastern grip at a comparatively bottom hand. But it would be best to use your second hand when the ball approaches your backend. This scenario gives you a better chance of power and control for getting your desired paddle angle in backhand plays.
Final Thoughts on Eastern Forehand Grips
The Pickleball Eastern Forehand Grip is liked by many players specifically due to its great stability. Thus you can also find it useful whether you like playing hard, groundstrokes, volleys or something else.
Although you might face some challenges with the Eastern grip when playing backhand. But you can easily cope with it by applying the above strategies. So, give this grip a try, and let us see if it suits you.
I am Michael Wanner, an experienced and educated expert in the field of pickleball. I hold a degree in Sports Science from Cleveland State University, Ohio, USA. My expertise lies in the technical aspects of pickleball and how to play it effectively. I have spent many years playing and coaching pickleball and have a wealth of knowledge to share with my readers. I am a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their pickleball skills and strategies.
