Ball speed and control
Speed and control are two essential aspects of table tennis, and finding the right balance between the two is important to become an effective player. Here are some key points to consider when it comes to speed and control:
Control of technique, essential for speed and control in table tennis
A solid and controlled technique is the basis for having both speed and control. Work on your posture, positioning, punching motion, and timing to improve your control. Proper technique will allow you to place the ball with precision while maintaining the necessary speed.
Coordination training
Hand-eye coordination is essential for good control. Practice regularly with specific drills that focus on coordination to improve your ball touch and accuracy.
The choice of equipment
The rubbers and blade you use can influence the speed and control of your game. In fact, if you’re looking for better control, go for rubbers with a softer sponge and more flexible blade. On the other hand, if you are looking for more speed, choose rubbers with a harder sponge and a stiffer blade. Experiment with different gear to find the right balance for your playstyle.
Speed variation
Learn to vary the speed of your punches depending on the situation. Sometimes it’s better to play slower, more controlled balls to keep the ball on the table and force your opponent to make mistakes. Other times you can also increase the speed to seize the initiative and put your opponent under pressure.
The precise placement
Accurate ball placement is crucial for control. Aim for the corners of the table and your opponent’s weak areas to put them in difficulty. In short, a good placement will allow you to control the exchange and take advantage.
The tactical game with speed and control in table tennis
Develop a good tactical understanding of the game. Thus, choose the right moments to play with more speed or to slow down the game. Then, adapt your strategy according to your opponent and the situation of the match to optimize your control and your speed.
Regular practice
Mastering speed and control requires regular practice. So practice specific drills that emphasize those aspects of the game. For example, work on both ball control drills. You can also perform speed drills to improve these skills.
You know almost everything about Speed and control in table tennis!
Ultimately, table tennis is a balance between speed and control. An efficient player will know how to use the right amount of speed and control according to the situation to maximize their performance on the table.
Featured image: Picture of Cottonbro Studio.
