Beginner/Intermediate Setup

Jack Marshall Asked 6 years ago

Hi Coach,

I have been playing table tennis for 14 years (since 12). Although I played very inconsistently (on average once a month) and received no coaching, I came to a good level at the game to start with mostly because of my training and skills in tennis (played 8 years competitively). I can confidently execute all fundamental strokes with good placement and can utilize different spins in game and on my serve. Based on watching others, I can say I'm around 1300 USATT level.

I have decided to start receiving coaching to properly develop my technique and plan to buy my first custom paddle (using a STIGA Pro Carbon now). After lots of research, here is the setup I came up with: Blade (Timo Boll Allround or Stiga Allround Classic) / Rubber (Yasaka Mark V 1.8mm or 2.0mm)

Which of the blades would you suggest (or would you suggest another blade)? Should I stick to a single rubber thickness on FH and BH to keep things simple and better develop my technique (if so which)? Or is it ok for me to go for a faster FH (2.0mm) and more controlled BH (1.8mm) combination?

Thank you for your time and guidance.

Best,

Jack

Alois Rosario Answered 6 years ago

Hi Jack,

Either of the blades would be perfect.  I would go for the 2mm Mark V on both sides.  It is a slower controlled rubber so you will be able to handle the 2mm.

Good luck with your progress.