Starting what to focus on
Strokes
Mike Fullmore Asked 10 years ago
I am new to table tennis and there is lots to think about. What is the first thing I should work on, and keep in my conscious mind to make habit?
Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago
Hi Mike,
I would start with the Forehand and Backhand counterhit strokes. You can see these in our lessons on the Forehand Counterhit and Backhand Counterhit. These are both on the Strokes & Techniques page of the site. If you work your way through this page you will start to progress your game.
Recommended Video
Footwork Basics
Good footwork is the foundation of a strong table tennis game. In this video, we break down the essential steps to move efficiently and stay balanced during rallies.
✅ Key Footwork Tips You'll Learn:
- ✔️ How to bend your knees and position your feet correctly
- ✔️ The shuffle step—jumping while keeping your feet the same width apart
- ✔️ A simple step-by-step drill to improve movement and positioning
- ✔️ How to progress from single-ball drills to faster multi-ball exercises
By jumping into position and stopping, you ensure a stable base before playing each shot—leading to better accuracy and control.
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Dieter Verhofstadt Posted 10 years ago
1. Grip - fingers, wrist, shoulders
2. Stance - waist, knees, feet
3. Basic strokes - to control the ball and get it back with consistency; use proper grip and stance
4. Footwork - to get to the ball and produce a basic stroke
I see a lot of players of my level who are impaired by their grip & stance. It's hard for them to fix such a fundamental issue, so you'll have a head start by doing it right.
Mike Fullmore Posted 10 years ago
Thanks for the responses.
Alois I did see the response to my comment and thank you for following up in both places.
When I made the comment in Google+ I thought it was the wrong place and I should really be asking my question in this forum.
Thanks again.
martinand bernard Posted 10 years ago
the good bat for your level, stance, very important, track the ball all the time, concentration and see all the vidéos on pingskills