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Ping Pong Strategies

Ping Pong, Table Tennis

With the popularity of table tennis on the rise in both the social and professional realms, many more people are picking up on this simple, yet thrilling game. Table tennis, also commonly known as ping pong, is becoming a common social activity for household game rooms, as well as college campuses and athletic clubs. With the change to an official eleven point game-as opposed to the previous twenty-one point battle-ping pong is also making its way into the sports television realm. Table tennis, like any other competitive activity, is both a mental and physical game. Oftentimes, you will meet an opponent who is just as good as or better than yourself. It is in such a playing arena that the stronger mental player will prevail. Whether you are a beginning player who wishes to pick up a few skills with the paddle, or you’re an advanced player active in local competitions, there are a few, basic mental strategies to table tennis that can benefit you to be aware of.

1) The game is never over until the final point has been played. Although a simple concept in theory, it is one that is crucial to be aware of during the entire game. It is by forgetting this truth that many players who should have otherwise prevailed, lose, simply because they forgot to fight as hard in the end as in the beginning. On the other hand, focusing on continuing to struggle to win when you’re down by a significant number of points can work in your favor towards giving you a six point comeback and eventually winning the game.

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2) Focus on the point at hand, not the current score. Although it is crucial to be aware of the overall score of the game, it can be a great distraction during point-play. Instead, focus on playing each shot as if it were the determining point in your game. Focusing is key to success in a game like ping pong. Since so much of it relies heavily upon mentally strategy, it is important that you do not lose your focus at any point during the game.

3) Find your opponents playing style and take advantage of this knowledge. Does your opponent like to play further away from the table? Drop in a few net shots to mess with his concentration during the game. Does he prefer to play a quick, up close to the table style of game? Play the corners and edges of the table if you are confident in your shot placement capacities. Doing so will allow you to concentrate on perfecting your own game strategy, but it will also leave your opponent struggling to make the shots that throw off his playing style. Stay aware of how your opponent plays, as each player is unique in their style. Instead of fearing his playing style, use it against him if at all possible.

4) Don’t go into the game thinking “I’m going to lose.” No matter how much better your opponent may be than you, it will never help you to enter a match with a negative attitude towards your playing skills. Simple view every game as a new challenge-as mountain that can be overcome with time, practice, and perseverance.

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5) Be ready to have fun. You attitude can determine how your opponent will view you in the future, and how willing they will be to play you again. While the world of competitive ping pong is continually growing, you want to have as many willing partners as possible. Prove yourself to be an enjoyable opponent through a relaxed, friendly attitude.