Training
It's clear from your videos that Alois and Jeff have master all the shots -- forehand and backhand blocks, topspins, loops, flips and chops. That's why you are world-class players. But for the club player, should we focus on the few shots we are strong at or try to master all the shots? In other words, is it better to master a few shots or be pretty good at all shots?
Hi Mark,
I think it is important to be proficient at a wide range of strokes. Certainly, you need to be able to counterhit, block, topspin, topspin against backspin, push and even chop.
If you don’t have one of these there will be a big gap in your technique that your opponent will be able to exploit.
By throwing in some unexpected long returns you will keep your opponent off balance and this will make each short push you do so much more effective. That's why it's important to be able to return long. You've got 2 options. You can flick the ball or push it long and fast. This week our focus is on these types of returns.
Watch NowBecome a free member to post a comment about this question.
Ilia Minkin Posted 10 years ago
Is it a big deficiency to not have flicks?
Not really. I think a push or chop will suffice to start with. A flick is something that you can develop later.