Short game

Hello Pingskills. 

Now im a penhold player and I typically like to hit my forehand drives at medium distance from the table,this has always been my strength. But recently players have been finding ways to neutralize my strength by playing balls short which is a weak area for me. Players will hit balls very short,literally a few inches in front of the net with lots of backspin .  If I try to push short I just end up hitting the net,if i try to push medium or even long i end up missing the table completely. Any help?  Its very frustrating.  Thanks!

Hi Evan,

Being able to play the short ball is an important part of your development.  Try to work on this by practicing short pushing, keeping your hand really relaxed.  Sounds like you can also practice your long pushing to create some more opportunities now.  Pushing is a lot about touch and getting the angle of your racket right.

A tactic you can use is to serve more long balls so that they can't get you short in the rallies you are serving.