Falling into a pattern

Hi Alois,

When I play, I tend to fall into a pattern. Like after a pendulum serve I always go for a down the line attack with the backhand after they return it and after my reverse serve I go for a forehand attack down the line. This is all nice when I am wining points but after 1-2 games the opponent notices it and I start getting predictable. It's like when I play an actual game I am not thinking as much because I don't have the time and letting my instincts take over. Should I try to plan my attack before the point? It's not only my 3rd balls but I have a tendency of preferring to attack my opponent's backhand rather than forehand. This has won me many matches, but now the people I play with are getting used to it. So, any advice for my situation?

Thanks, in advance :)

Hi Kristian,

Start with your training.  In your drills, focus on the variation of placement.  If you do it there you will find it more comfortable in a match.  Everyone has a preferred direction for their shots.  It may be your positioning to the table or something else that is subtle.  If you don't practice the different placements it is difficult to change it in a match.

So, when you are doing a 10 minute 3rd ball drill, do 3 minutes playing the first ball cross court, then 3 minutes opening down the line and then 3 minutes opening to the middle and then a minute opening anywhere.  You can vary the times and placements however you want as long as there is some variation.

Then in a match you are more ready to change direction.