How to Do a Backhand Chop in Table Tennis

Named for its downward cleaving motion, the chop is a classic defensive stroke that lands the ball short on your opponent's side with a very heavy backspin.

Things You'll Need

  • Athletic Gear
  • Table Tennis Balls
  • Table Tennis Nets
  • Table Tennis Paddles
  • Table Tennis Playing Tables
  • Table Tennis Video
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Anticipate your opponent's attack shot and retreat a step or two back from the table to allow the ball to drop. The harder your opponent attacks, the further you must retreat from the table.

    • 2

      Pivot your hips and shoulders as you draw the paddle across your chest to about head height. Cock your wrist back toward your head.

    • 3

      Point your elbow toward your target.

    • 4

      Swing from your forearm, leading with your elbow, as you chop down on the ball. Keep your paddle face very open (facing up).

    • 5

      Snap your wrist as your strike the ball.

    • 6

      Time your chop to take the ball at about thigh height.

    • 7

      Strike the ball in the center of your paddle, keeping its face very open.

    • 8

      Follow through, down and forward, until your arm is fully extended and the paddle is at about waist height.

    • 9

      Make sure the motion of your stroke is continuous from beginning to end, with no stopping.