How to Improve Table Tennis Footwork

Most people, when they think about table tennis, don't think about footwork. Good footwork, however, is one of the most important aspects of the game. If you want to improve your game dramatically and really become a serious player, it is crucial to focus on mastering the essentials of proper footwork.

Instructions

    • 1

      Focus on perfecting your ready position stance. Stand with your blade directly in front of you, above the surface of the table. Keep your shoulders square and your feet about hip-width apart. Your knees should be slightly bent.

    • 2

      Work on your swings from the ready position until you have developed solid, consistent strokes.

    • 3

      Begin side-to-side footwork training by having your partner hit 100 shots to your backhand. Place your weight on your right foot (if you're right-handed) and simply step left with your left leg. Do not cross your feet or you will end up tangled and out of position for your next shot.

    • 4

      Practice right movement by having your partner hit 100 shots cross court to your forehand (if you're right-handed). Use your left leg as a base this time and take one sideways step with your right leg.

    • 5

      Return to ready position in the center of the table after each shot during these right and left movement footwork drills.

    • 6

      Follow one-step footwork drills with two-step drills. Again, have your partner hit 100 shots to both sides, this time with a wider angle.

    • 7

      Move two steps to the right for these wider shots by moving your left leg in toward the right one. Do not cross your feet. When your left foot is next to your right foot, simply side-skip your right foot out. You should find yourself back in ready position, this time two steps to the right.

    • 8

      Return to center by reversing your side steps. Bring your right foot next to the left one, then side-skip your left leg out. You should now be back in ready position and ready for the next shot.

    • 9

      Improve your table tennis footwork by improving your overall fitness and foot speed. Since table tennis requires quick reactions and relatively small movements, classic football tire running drills are a good idea, as are running stairs and jumping rope.