Retreat: Turning Defense Into Attack

Greetings, coach.

Just want to ask, how to train my mind set to retreat to counter my opponent's attack? I realized that I tend to stay close to the table while my opponent topspin the ball, forcing me to play my "not-so-well" block. I'm sure when I'm a little bit further away from the table, I'll have more time to react and counter my opponent's topspin. But the problem is, I'm still not used to move away from the table.

Recently I practiced with my partner, and we agreed to practice our 3rd ball attack, and then continue with topspin-to-topspin rally. So I serve, my opponent push, I make opening, my opponent try to block / counter, then the topspin-to-topspin rally begins. I hope I can get a habit to move a little further away after making opening to be ready for attack. Is this a good idea?

Hi Erriza,

In general I would say moving away from the table is not a good idea however if you feel more comfortable making the return from there then practice it and see if it works better for you.

You can do this as a drill in training.  Get your opponent to do 3rd ball attack and after your return of serve take a step away from the table.