Absolute defensive tips

Hi Alois,

I am new to table tennis. I have just started playing at October, last year. 

One thing I have noticed is that I fail at making kill shots like smashes nearly 50% of the time, but have an innate skill at blocking by reflex the forehand topspins and smashes.

The problem I am facing is that at smashes with very high speed, the ball flies over the other side at times, and it is sometimes a really hard thing to predict the success rate of my block. what should I do to maximise the success rate? I am trying to improve this skill to build an absolute defensive playstyle. Your expert tips are required.

Yours sincerely,

Basher.

Hi Basher,

The important parts are to be able to watch the ball carefully to give yourself the best opportunity to react to the ball.  Then try to keep your hands as relaxed as you can.  The more fast balls you face the easier it will become to stay relaxed in this situation.

Finally it is also about how low and well placed you can play each shot.  If you play the ball higher asn to a simple position for your opponent, they are more likely to be able to play a stronger ball.