Breathing during rallies

Hi Coach,

Today i went to a table tennis academy with a friend who practices there. The academy has produced many national players right from school level to seniors level. Time and again the coaches there emphasized on breathing during rallies. When the topspin vs block rallies were being played by the students the coaches kept on reminding them to give a small grunt(huh huh) for more power and quickness and exhale with it.

I dont know about the grunt but when i played and was exhaling each time while hitting the topspin i felt more relaxed and in control even when the rally became fast. I never knew that exhaling at the right time would have an impact on the game. Your thoughts? It would be great if you would share some quick tips on similar aspects of the game.

Hi Shaji,

The grunting really just helps with the timing of your strokes.  I don't think you need to make the noise to improve your stroke at all.  Breathing out and in a relaxed manner is important at all times.  I have never really emphasised it with my coaching.

It is interesting to hear your thoughts on it.