Tips to Play Table Tennis

Table tennis, or ping-pong, is an enjoyable recreational sport enjoyed in bars, basements and playrooms throughout the country. In order to excel in table tennis, you must have quick reflexes and know where to place the ball so that the other player cannot return it. Take your game to the next level by following a few tips regarding serving, returning and other aspects of game play.

  1. Serving

    • Like tennis, serving in table tennis is one of the most important aspects of the game and can mean the difference between winning and losing. The key is to have a wide range of different serves in your arsenal so that you can always surprise your opponent. If you always serve with pure speed, your opponent will learn how to react. However, if you alternate between down-the-line, deep, short, pure speed, pure spin and medium-long serves, your opponent won’t know what’s coming and will be more likely to make a mistake. Whenever possible, serve to your opponent's elbow to force a quick decision between backhand and forehand. Also, try to develop a third-ball attack in which you serve, the opponent returns poorly, and you slam it back for the winning shot. A good combination is a short backspin serve, a long push by your opponent, and a powerful loop by you. Be aggressive and consistent on this third shot and you’ll win many points.

    Returning

    • Returning is an important aspect of the game because you usually have to do it 50 percent of every game. When returning, always watch your opponent’s racket to predict where the ball will wind up. Many players make the mistake of watching the ball, but a good server can easily deceive you this way. Don’t watch the server’s eyes because it’s pretty easy for a good player to look one way and serve the other. Also, vary your return types as much as possible. This follows the same aforementioned principle about serving. If you return the same way every time, you’re opponent will capitalize on the predictability of your shots. Mix it up by hitting loops, pushes, drives, chops and other shots.

    Mental Game

    • Like regular tennis, table tennis is largely a mental game. Controlling your temper, keeping your focus on each individual point and ignoring possible distractions can improve your game tenfold. If you start losing a match or give up a big lead, just take a deep breath and regain your focus. Your opponent will know if you’re frustrated and force you into stupid errors you wouldn’t normally make. Also, never give up, even when you are losing considerably. Comebacks are common in table tennis, and there’s always a chance you might win. Take your time when serving to consider your next shot and predict what your opponent might do.