Footwork: Getting too close to the table

Table Tennis Strokes and Technique

Last updated 10 years ago

Mudit Kapoor

Mudit Kapoor Asked 10 years ago

Hi Alois,

While trying to play continuous forehand and backhand it seems that I am getting too close to the table while attempting for my backhand topspin. Due to this, ball hurries on me and I am not able to play a proper stroke. Here I would like to mention that I try to maintain the stance as shown in your videos by keeping my left foot slightly back than my right foot (I play left-handed).

How do I ensure that I keep a almost constant distance from the table while playing alternate forehand and backhand. 

Moreover, I am developing a wrist oriented backhand topspin. I can do this in practice very well, however, in game, my wrist movement is not fluid. I think it is not a good idea now to change the technique again since I have been working on this particular technique for a year now and I am getting some results. However, results only happen when I get sufficient time for my shot, that is when I am slightly away from the table. However, in service receive on backhand and the scenario described above is still a pain for me. Please help.

Best regards,

Mudit


Alois Rosario

Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago

Hi Mudit,

You could put some markings on the floor that you can check where your feet are from time to time.  You can do this with a simple line across the floor.  Just some focus on this will tend to help.

For your backhand topspin, I think one fo the first things that happens in a game situation is that you tighten a little.  This will show up in strokes such as the backhand topspin in your wrist which needs to be relaxed to move through the range of movement that you need.

If you are finding that the ball is too close to you, try playing from half a step back.  This will give you a little more time and put you into a better position to make the shot.


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