Push or Flick
Strategy
Carlo Caloy Asked 13 years ago
Hi Alois,
I often have this dilemma of trying to decide of whether to push or do a flick off a return this is short with underspin. What happens is after I serve, my opponent usually does a short underspin return. I then have this short moment of hesitation of whether to also do a push, or a flick. Which shot is better? I am not good at flicking yet and so the ball usually goes to the net. If I push, I have a better chance of putting it over the net, however, it also sometimes goes to the net. Should I use the flick during practice only, and then start using it in games when I am better at it? Or should I practice the stroke even during games.
Thank you.
Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago
Hi Carlo,
You should try to develop both strokes. They are both useful at different times.
I think a lot of players develop their games into using one or the other more predominantly. See which one works for you. I used to like to push because it gave me a push return back that I liked to topspin. Other players like to flick because the response is a more open stroke that they like. Just see which type of game suits you.
Once you have decided which is better for your own game, then work at using that a lot bith in training and in matches. If it is the flick, then practice it a lot during training and use it when you can in a match situation. YOu can use it a lot when you are in a match where you almost know the result. Either a much weaker or much better opponent. As you gain more confidence in it then you can start to use it in closer matches.
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Carlo Caloy Posted 2013-08-10 07:54:25
This info really helped me in my match today. Thanks Alois. :)
No problems Carlo.
Eshaan Mishra Posted 2014-08-10 07:54:25
Coach,
What are the methods of improving our fast topspins or
how can we improve our fast topspins?
Take a look at the lesson we have on the Advanced Forehand Topspin.
Eshaan Mishra Posted 2014-08-10 07:54:25
but coach that is a premium member video.
is there another video not for premium members?
Unfortunately no. We do have some content that is exclusive for our Premium members that support the site financially and keep it available for everyone.
Noor Motani Posted 2017-08-10 07:54:25
That is a good one. I normally play over the table backspin on a short down spin serve. Is this any difference than push? If the ball has little spin, and little bounce, I flip it. Am I doing right?
Hi Noor,
Yes it sounds like you are making some good choices.
Bhawani Mukherji Posted 2017-08-10 07:54:25
What about Banana opening on short service with counter spin
Yep Bhawani, that is also a good option. The banana can be thought of as a backhand sidespin flick.
yalcin yalcin Posted 2017-08-10 07:54:25
Hi Alois and Jeff. How are you My frieds? I hope with all my heart you are fine and well
Today I watched your push or flick video. I follow your invaluable advices. Thank you very much for it.
Your friend Ali
from Tarsus/Mersin
Turkey
Rakesh Soni Posted 2017-08-10 07:54:25
Good explanation. However these things come with regular practice.
SUBHRAJYOTI BANERJEE Posted 2017-08-10 07:54:25
Dear Alois and Jeff,
Found this video pretty useful.
But whether I push or flick, it is not gonna work if I play against either of you.
Thanks and Regards...
kathy mckelvey Posted 2017-08-10 07:54:25
Right now the push works best for me! I'm not proficient with the flick yet! Thank's for the video.
Margie Hadden Posted 2017-08-10 07:54:25
Hi good video nice and simple. I liked the question of thinking about what kind of a shot I like coming back to me? I'm afraid that I haven't the faintest idea but it's something I will try to become more aware of.
Also is a flick different to a touch?
n hh Posted 2017-08-10 07:54:25
good video
Vinh Cao duy Posted 2017-08-10 07:54:25
THanks, good information from You