If you want to go on to become a professional table tennis player, you must master a few distinct shots. It’s enough to be proclaimed the workplace or family champion, even if you don’t want to put in the years of dedicated hard work it takes to become a world champion. Especially if you’re from a sports-loving household where everyone is very competitive. Even if you only defeat your father or employer occasionally, it’s worth the extra practice.
There are four fundamental ping pong shots you should be familiar with before attempting to disgrace your boss in front of the entire office. You only need to know these four table tennis shots to get started at table tennis:
- Forehand Drive
- Backhand Drive
- Forehand Push
- Backhand Push
Tips for Improving Your Forehand Drive (Counter)
The most common stroke to master is the forehand drive (counter). When your opponent throws you a deep/high ball, employ the forehand drive to get the upper hand. Stopping your opponent with a forehand drive is the best method to win a point. As near to your opponent’s baseline/sideline as possible is ideal.
Backhand Drive Techniques Revealed (Counter)
While the ball is hit to your backhand side, you should use this stroke in the same manner as you would when using your forehand. When your opponent hits a deep/high ball, employ a backhand drive to get the upper hand. It’s easy to stop your opponent from attacking with a backhand drive. Try to get your ball land as close to your opponent’s baseline/sideline as possible when using your backhand drive.
Tip for Forehand Push
The goal of this stroke is to prevent your opponent from making an aggressive shot, and it is typically utilized for short balls.
It’s critical to position your feet correctly, just like you would for a forehand drive. The way the body is positioned is similar in both examples. Put your right foot further back and your feet shoulder-distance apart to achieve this stance.
Tips for Improving Your Backhand Push Technique
When used for short balls, the stroke is intended to prevent your opponent from making the offensive table tennis shots. It is not recommended for long balls. To begin, stand with your back to the table and your feet near to the finish line.
The backswing should be brief and your hand should be close to your chest with your paddle open at 45 percent. Keep the strokes brief and your arm moving forward and down from your elbow as you paint. When the ball is at its best, make sure you “brush” it with a quick move (or slightly earlier).
Oliver Greene is a sports geek at heart. From iconic moments to rising stars, he’s here to share his love of sports and the stories that make them special.