Penhold Grip Aggressive Gameplay

Mark Evans Asked 5 years ago

Hi Alois,

I am currently using penhold grip and having great spin and control. However the shortcoming is that apart from having forehand smash, I am becoming pretty defensive player. I try to loop or chop each ball but gradually the opponents get used to my style. So, can you suggest some tips to attack the ball using penhold grip?

Alois Rosario Answered 5 years ago

Hi Mark,

I think the principles are similar to shakehand and that is to try and attack earlier in the rally.  Work on setting this up with your serve or return of serve.

The more difficult part is with the backhand if you are not using the Reverse Penhold Backhand (RPB).  If that is the case then you need to try to get your footwork good enough to cover the table with your forehand.  If not your opponent will pin you down on your backhand side and you will get into that defensive rally.  To counter this you can try serving more to their forehand corner which will give them a more natural angle to play to your forehand side rather than getting your wide on your backhand.