Mastering sidespin

D K Asked 2 years ago

Greetings,

As my abilities progresses I have started using more advanced strokes and implementing them into my matches. I was able to partly learn even a backhand sidespin loop. I can get about 3/10 on the table out of passive block but I start to be able to pulling them off even from backspin balls (nasty for a long pimple user... what do you think? :D )

Though I would like to ask about the correct technique of the pure sidespin shots.
I am aware about the contact etc., I am knowledgeable about the physical laws around but how should my body cooperate to use a pure sidespin shot as a form of nasty curvy shot.
The aim is to send the opponent away from the middle. For example, I get a ball on my middleline, my stroke should land close to the middleline, but travel out of the table over the sideline.
Or, if I get a down-line shot, I should be able to do the same - send it so that it leaves table through the sideline - or to perform an around net shot from between sidelines position.
Eventually, also strokes performed from close range, which contains mostly only sidespin.

Thanks
Dan

Alois Rosario Answered 2 years ago

Hi Dan,

It's great to hear that you're improving your skills.  

To master pure sidespin shots, you need to make sure your body is in a balanced position.  A quick adjustment to your positioning as the ball approaches can make the difference between a successful shot and a failed one.

Getting the technique correct is also important.  Try to relax your wrist and contact the left side of the ball.  It is difficult to get this consistent because you are putting sidespin more than topspin.  Therefore, it will take a lot of time to get this stroke to a level that you re comfortable to use it in a match consistently.  Still make sure you are mastering the straight topspin as well.  This is a much more reliable stroke and will help you to win more points.