How to Hit the Smash Shot in Table Tennis

Forget spin, finesse and defense - the smash shot is pure, ruthless power. Hit it properly and don't expect a return.

Things You'll Need

  • Athletic Gear
  • Table Tennis Balls
  • Table Tennis Nets
  • Table Tennis Paddles
  • Table Tennis Playing Tables
  • Table Tennis Video
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Instructions

    • 1

      Notice the ball coming to you with an overly high bounce. This is usually the result of a mistake or a poor defensive shot by your opponent and is the perfect situation for a smash shot.

    • 2

      Keep your eyes on the ball.

    • 3

      Step to where you need to be to have a wide open forehand swing on the ball. You may even have to lean in over the table.

    • 4

      Take a big backswing, turning your shoulders and dipping the handle way back with an extended arm.

    • 5

      Swing hard onto the ball at the peak of its bounce. Keep your arm relatively straight and swing over and down on the ball. Power is the key to the smash - hit the ball so hard and aggressively that your opponent can barely even see it. This is a put-away shot.

    • 6

      Strike the ball with a closed paddle (facing down) and maximum acceleration. Put your full body weight into the paddle.

    • 7

      Follow through, swinging the paddle across your chest.

    • 8

      Return quickly to your ready position.