Table tennis is also known by its other name “ping pong”. The game is more than just a pastime, but is a strategic sport that can be enjoyed by millions of players worldwide. Learning the fundamentals of the game helps aspiring players develop their skills and improve consistency. Getting a solid grasp of the game’s basics is the first step to your table tennis journey, whether you play for recreation or for competing.
For aspiring players, understanding the fundamentals of the game is crucial to developing skills, improving consistency, and enjoying the experience fully. Whether you’re playing for recreation or have ambitions to compete, getting a solid grasp of the basics is the first step on your table tennis court booking.
Understanding table tennis game
Table tennis is a racket sport game played between 2-4 players, playing singles or doubles. The game is about hitting the ball back and forth across the table with a net in the middle. Scoring the game is through landing the ball on the side of the opponent’s table without returning it to the other player.
Equipment of the game
Playing the table tennis game starts by having the right equipment at hand, such as:
- Paddle or racket. Most beginner paddles have smooth and pimpled rubber surfaces that offer various degrees of control and spin.
- Ball. A 2.7 grams and 40mm diameter are the standard size and weight of a table tennis ball, which is made of plastic and orange or white.
- Table. A regular table tennis ball has the following specific details:
- 9 feet long
- 5 feet wide
- 30 inches high
- 6-inch-high net across the center
Basic rules
Learning the official rules of the game ensures a fair play game and you will have a better understanding, such as:
- The ball is served behind the end line and toast at least 6 inches into the air and struck, making it bounce on each side of the table.
- The match is played in best of 5 or 6 games.
- Each game will be played to 11 points, the player must have at least a 2-point lead to win the match.
- Players will alternate serve every two points, they switch sides after every game.
Master the basic techniques!
Aspiring players focused on developing core techniques that form the foundation for more advanced skills.
Grip
Table tennis has two main types of grips, they are:
- Shakehand grip
- Penhold grip
Players can choose from the two grips they are comfortable with and allow the natural movement of the arm and wrist.
Basic shots
The key to playing the game is to understand and practice the four fundamental strokes:
- Forehand drive
- Backhand drive
- Push
- Serve
Stance and footwork
Proper stance includes:
- Knees slightly bent
- Feet shoulder-width apart
- Good footwork
- Weight balanced of your feet
Conclusion
Understand the basics of table tennis by focusing on the fundamentals of the game from the basic rules to practice.