No spin loop

Simon Lewis Asked 12 years ago

Dear PingSkills,

I recently watched a game at my local club between two good players. One player looped the ball, and the opponent went to block the ball back. However, the ball died, and went straight into the net off the block. The blocker then went on to say, "there was nothing on it!"... is this possible? Is it possible to loop a ball with little or no spin? I know it is easy enough to put more spin on a loop, but how is it possible to put less spin on the ball, and know it will still go over? For me, I read the spin, and put the right amount of top spin on the ball to get it back on the table. For me, putting on the right amount of top spin is a necessity to get the ball back, not something I can pick and choose. Yes, I could put more on if need be, but surely not less? Is this not the case for everyone else?

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Simon,

This is what we call a no spin loop or an old term was the "Baby Elephant" loop. Even though we call it a no spin loop, it really is a less spin loop. There will still be some spin but less than the blocker is expecting.

The looper adjusts the angle of his bat by opening it up rather than closing it. By opening up the angle you don't need to brush the ball to lift it over the net. This will mean there is less spin on the ball. So you are working with the angle of your bat rather than the brushing action.

This is a good variation to practice if you can because it can lead to a lot of errors by the blocker. Remember more spin and speed is not always better, variation is the key.

Watch the video response to this question titled No Spin Loop.

← Style of play No spin serve →

Paul Johnson Posted 12 years ago

Great video guys! I really like the better quality camera and slo mo footage. Keep up the great work!

Jeff Plumb from PingSkills Posted 12 years ago

Thanks Paul.

andrew brand Posted 12 years ago

interesting shot, i never heard of this one. it looks like a normal loop especially the finish position.

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 12 years ago

It can be really effective especially against someone who is a good blocker and likes the ball coming at them fast.

Jon Ferguson Posted 8 years ago

I played a very good player some time ago who used this technique, which he mixed up with very spinny loops. He disguised the no (low) spin shot by using the same arm movements as the spinny loop, ie., the same follow through- he only changed the bat angle. You had to really focus on the moment of contact, and watch him carefully, to even have a chance. I've seen him win games 11-5 / 11-6 multiple times against blockers, just using this deception. Well worth investigating!

Barmaley Barmaleev Posted 8 years ago

Hi,

Alois!

What is the box banded on your right elbow on this video?

Jeff Plumb from PingSkills Posted 8 years ago

@Bramaley - that's actually the microphone we were using at the time.