How to Receive Service in Table Tennis

The key to a good service return is reading the spin of the serve.

Things You'll Need

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

    • 1

      Await service in a relaxed ready position. Your feet should be about shoulder width apart, with your shoulders squared toward your opponent and your paddle up and ready.

    • 2

      Watch your opponent's paddle as he or she serves. Watch for telltale tendencies - players typically have certain serves they like to use over and over, and you can try to capitalize on this.

    • 3

      Remain calm during the serve. Keep your paddle up and ready.

    • 4

      Recognize an upward swing and a forward-tilted paddle as a sign that topspin is coming. Be ready for the ball to bounce low and fast.

    • 5

      Block topspin by angling your racket forward as you return with a push or a block (see Related eHows section for more information on these shots).

    • 6

      Recognize a downward swing and a backward-tilted paddle as a sign that backspin is coming. Expect the ball to take a slow bounce and lose speed.

    • 7

      Neutralize backspin by tilting your paddle back as you return with a block or a push.