Open vs. closed stance in pickleball

Summary

Aylex separates when to use each stance on drives. Closed stance generates more power because you can push off the back leg — that’s the choice when you’re looking for a harder drive and have time to set.

Open stance is for rushed moments (common in singles) when you need to reach out and don’t have time to plant. It works, but it’s less powerful because you’re rotating/uncorking the body instead of driving off a loaded back leg.

Key takeaways

• Closed stance = more power via the back leg
• Open stance = rush/reach situations when you can’t set
• Open is effective but usually less powerful

Action items

• In feed drills, alternate closed-stance drives with open-stance reach drives
• Film one session and note which stance you default to under pressure