Grip changing
Table Tennis Strokes and Technique
Last updated 9 years ago
Kevin Fang Asked 9 years ago
Would you say grip changing is effective, such as the grip changes shown by exclusive pro's like Timo Boll and Michael Maze? I tend to grip change, but I am trying to keep a neutral grip since I play close the table.
Could you highlight some of the advantages and disadvantages of this grip changing? How hard is it to go from a grip changing style to a neutral style, which pros like Ma Long or ZJK (backhand grip style) use?
Cheers Alois,
- Kevin
Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago
Hi Kevin,
In general when you are developing it is best to have a neutral grip. It is difficult to change grips in a fast rally.
The better players do change grips slightly but it is best to stay with something neutral.
Thoughts on this question
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Maurice D Posted 9 years ago
Hi Alois and Jeff,
I thought I was the only one falling into a potentially bad habit because I have not seen any training videos or read any articles advocating changes to the grip in the middle of a rally.
When I have time to hit the ball I have caught myself making minor changes to my shakehand grip into an optimally comfortable backhand or forehand grip. This entails movement of the index finger up for forehand loops and down for backhand loops.
But the variation that has me bewildered, is a 10 degree (no, I have not measured it with a protractor but it's a close approximation!) outward rotation of the racket, not the wrist, for forehand loops/spins that I want to hit really hard. This rotation causes the index finger to hook a bit while allowing only its fingertip to touch the racket. This effectively closes the racket further allowing me to powerfully strike the ball without fearing it will fly off the table. This configuration just feels more stable. No one taught or showed me this. It's just something I do subconsciously.
You have to confess, Alois and Jeff! Do you change your grips too? Or do you have steadfast iron grips?
Does anyone else find themselves making adjustments to their grips mid-rally?
Thanks!
Maurice
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 9 years ago
Grips change slightly but if you are finding that you are not able to change in time in a fast rally then you need to stabilise it. Especially when you are learning it is better to have a stable grip.