position at the table
Table Tennis Match Strategy
Last updated 13 years ago
Michael Jameson Asked 13 years ago
Hi fellows,
I have often enjoyed your presentations on table tennis skills. You are always clear and direct. My question is about position at the table. I have Multiple sclerosis, and although I am ambulatory, I don't move around the table with much ease or grace. Is there a position/stance you might suggest for me that will allow me to play most shots well? I have been playing for a little more than a year, and am making progress with my club, but seem to get stuck in one spot very often as my brain isn't communicating well with my left leg. I have to change my hand positions often to accomodate this lack of movement. Also, slams aren't coming easily to me.
Thanks very much.
Mike Jameson
Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago
Hi Mike,
The ideal position in your case is probably in the basic position. This is a distance form the table where you can just touch the table. As far as lateral position, you can be in a position where your bat sits on the middle line. This will give you the best chance to reach each ball with a maximum of one step.
Smashing or slams can be difficult. You need to position yourself as best as you can. Getting side on to the table when the ball is in the air, would be ideal. If you can't manage that , then try to turn from the waist to get the side on position.
The main thing here is to wrk as hard as possible at whatever level you can.
Thoughts on this question
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Michael Jameson Posted 13 years ago
Hi Alois,
Thank you for your advice. I practice a lot with my wife, and go to our club in the evenings. Getting side on to the table is something I need to concentrate on for all of the strokes, and as you advised, the slam. I am also working on predicting, by the opponents movements, the placement of the next shot coming to me, since it is essential for me to begin getting into position as early as possible. I love table tennis, and all of the people at our club are supportive of my improvement.
Thank you for your help.
Mike Jameson
Palm Beach Table Tennis Club
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 13 years ago
Hi Michael,
For the general rally you can be quite square to the table and just use your waist to turn. It is really just for the smash that you can look to turn a bit more.