Inconsistencies

Hi Alois

I am a very inconsistent player, somewhat like zhang jike. Sometimes I play so well that I can block fast and spinny topspins and my attacks rarely ever miss. But sometimes I play so badly that I lose to players who dont really know how to play properly. I cant get any attack in and my pushes are high. The latter happens more often than the former these few months. How can I solve this?

This got more serious when I did not train last month (till this week). This is my third session for the week and I still play like 5 years ago. I also started to develop some really bad habits, especially during random drills and matches with my training partner.  For example, I started to hit the ball flat instead of brushing the ball. I also tend to open my racket when playing the forehand topspin against backspin for no reason resulting in the ball flying out. This led to lots of errors.  My footwork also became non existent. How can I get out from this? 

Hi Yap,

I wish I was as inconsistent as Zhang Jike... I would be happy with one of his bad days...

It can be frustrating when you feel like your level is changing.  I think the most important thing is to accept that there will be changes.  Practice consistently... The break will mean that it will take a little time to get back to your previous consistent level.  Play a little slower and easier to get the confidence in putting the ball on the table. Then as you increase consistency of strokes again you can speed it up.