Short or Long Stroke on forehand loop

Juan Santiago Asked 9 years ago

I was wondering your opinion on if it is better/more efficient to use a very short motion like I have seen many European players use(such as Ovtcharov especially, Stefan Fegerl, Timo Boll, etc.) for a close to table or mid distance forehand loop or if you think it is worth taking that bigger swing to get more power like many of the top Chinese players such as Ma Long, Wang Liqin, Xu Xin. Thanks

Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago

Hi Juan,

I think the bigger swing is better if you have more time.  I think the Chinese players you have referred to have a little more time in general because they are in a good position more often and can therefore make a bigger stroke as well.

The shorter stroke can be more efficient but it is also more risky.

Especially when you are learning the longer stroke is more reliable.