Playing close to the Table

Hello Coaches,

What are the disadvantages of playing close to the Table?

When I think of one, it might be that the elbow region is getting quite vulnerable, cause it's quite big then, and the ball is rarely hit in the optimal highest point of the arc (mostly while rising). Is that the main reason why attacking players go back? Also it's easier to go really low a step back from the Table.

But the argument of having more time, is more of the defensive nature.

Please give some more explanation why attacking players use frequently to step back or maybe they attacking through power and not through speed. They actually slow but powerful and need their time for the powerful swing?

Thanks