1st Finger Problems
Strokes
Terry Hoobler Asked 12 years ago
This may be the dumbest question you've ever had, but if you are able to give me a solution, it will be worth asking. I have large hands and long fingers which leads to the question: At least once a game I get hit on the knuckle of my 1st finger on my racket hand when trying to return via my backhand. I tried taping the 1st & 2nd together but it doesn't always work. Is it a question of technique because it is very frustrating?
Jeff Plumb Answered 12 years ago
Hi Terry,
It's not a dumb question at all and is in fact quite common. There are 2 main causes. The first is that you could be gripping the bat with your finger moving up onto the backhand rubber too much. Next time you play just check to ensure that your finger stays low on the bat in the correct position. I'm not sure what you mean by taping your 1st and second finger together. You only want 1 finger on the back of the bat.
If your grip is correct, then even with big hands there will be enough room but the problem is often solved by watching the ball more closely and ensuring it is going into the middle of your racket. You can work on this during practice. It's amazing how much of a difference it can make if you really focus on the ball. Don't take this for granted, next time you play, make it a priority to track the ball all the way on to the middle of the bat.
Let me know if these tips help you out.
Recommended Video
Forehand Topspin Variations
A great weapon is being able to vary the amount of speed and spin on your forehand topspin stroke. By making your stroke more vertical and brushing the ball finely, you can generate more spin. For more speed you need to swing more horizontally.
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Martin Elliget Posted 12 years ago
I might be giving away a lucrative business idea here but I was discussing this very topic with some friends this week and had an off-the-wall idea. What about cutting a strip of bat rubber to wear on the finger attached with Velcro straps? It would have to be made out of ITTF approved rubber. Could it be the next big thing? When asking an opponent what rubber they're using, the reply might be something like - Mark V on the FH, Anti Spin on the BH and Vega Pro on the finger! ;)
Hi Martin,
Thanks for the novel thoughts. Unfortunately it would be illegal because the rubber surface has to be flat... Keep thinking of that lucrative idea.
And it can come back with a different spin than you expect to.
Rahul Kumar Posted 12 years ago
Spin - from fingers?? or you are referring to placement?