Using My Forearm

Johnny Long Asked 10 years ago

Hey. Today while I was playing, an experienced player watched me play and told me to use my forearm/elbow, and not to use my whole arm/shoulder. I'm just a bit confused as I've been taught to use my whole arm.
Thanks.

Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago

Hi Johnny,

It is important to also utilise the forearm in your stroke. One of the keys that we always reinforce is to make sure your bat finishes near your eyebrow on the forehand. This automatically makes sure that you are using your forearm in the stroke because you can’t get the bat to your head without bending your elbow.

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Johnny Long Posted 10 years ago

Thanks for the reply.

I'm also wondering is this the same for when attacking? For example, I just watched a game of Ma Long, and it seems when he is attacking he furiously swings his whole arm. I've only started training a couple months ago, and I am just a bit confused about everything.

Thank you.

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 10 years ago
Hi Johnny,

Focus on the basic stroke first that we show you in the lesson on the Forehand Counterhit and the Forehand Topspin Against Block. The big arm swing that Ma Long does is an extension of this. You will notice though that he still uses the forearm well and finishes near his head.