Blocking and Topspin strokes

Faiz Petak Asked 14 years ago

Hi Alois,

My name is Faiz i'm a lefthanded player.I wanna ask you two question.Hope you can answer my question.

My 1st problem is how to return top spin ball safely.
Cause I always lose againts my friend.He's name is Aiman he attacks really fast.How do i want to return the ball safely.

My 2nd problem is how to make a better forehand top spin.When I play I always have a chance to make top spin.My top spin is really fast but the ball doesnt get in the table.  Do you have any tips ?

Hope you can make a video for me.  All the best for pingskills classic and thanks for your help. 

Best regards,

Faiz

Alois Rosario Answered 14 years ago

Hi Faiz,

To return a topspin ball you have a few options.

The safest way is to block the ball.  The block is a defensive stroke that just uses the pace and spin of your opponent's shot to return the ball. Take a look at our lesson on the Backhand Block.

To make a good topspin it sounds like you need to slow the stroke down a little.  Often a slower topspin with more topspin is more effective than a fast topspin.  Make sure your technique is correct.  The most vital part of the technique is the finish position.  Watch the lesson on the Forehand Topspin to make sure you have it correct.  Also watch the lesson on the Forehand Loop Off Backspin.  This is often the stroke that is required at the start of the rally when your opponent pushes the ball to you or serves it long with backspin.

Hope this helps.