Bat or Ball

Paul Griz Asked 1 month ago

Dear Alois, 

I understand that we must always track the ball in play.  I have found myself initially focusing on the server's bat hand during the serve trying to determine what kind of spin, if any, is being imparted on the ball.  After the bat contacts the ball I then refocus on the ball until the point is made.  Sometimes It takes a fraction of a second to find the ball, now in motion, resulting in slightly less time to react appropriately to the serve. 

Is this a bad habit?  I have tried to focus on the ball during the serve while observing the bat hand peripherally, but found it difficult to determine the spin.  

Please let me know your sage wisdom regarding this aspect of this wonderful sport.  

Thank you,

Paul

Alois Rosario Answered 1 month ago

Hi Paul,

Thanks for your question, and it's great to see you're thinking critically about your observation skills during a match.

The situation you're describing is quite common among table tennis players. Determining the type of spin during a serve is crucial and can be challenging. Watching the server's bat at the moment of contact is a useful tactic to understand the spin. However, as you've experienced, this can sometimes delay your reaction to the actual play.

Here’s a strategy you might find helpful: 

1. Focus on the Ball: I consider this to be important.  Try to maintain your focus on the ball as much as possible. Although it's tempting to watch the bat, the ball will ultimately tell you the story of what's happening. 

2. Peripheral Vision: Develop your peripheral vision to pick up cues from the server’s bat without directly looking at it. This skill can be enhanced with practice and is very useful not just for serves but during rallies as well.

3. Read the Body Language: Often, the server’s body language, including the position of their feet, torso rotation, and arm movement, can give you additional clues about the likely spin.

4. Anticipate the Spin: With experience against various players, you'll start to anticipate certain types of spin from specific movements and bat angles. This anticipation doesn't replace watching the ball but complements the visual information you gather.

5. Practice with Spin Recognition Drills: You can practice with a training partner or a coach who serves with different spins while you try to call out the type of spin immediately after the bat contacts the ball. This will help sharpen your quick recognition skills.

6. Slow Motion Video: Occasionally, use slow-motion video analysis to see the server's bat contact and how the ball reacts. This can provide you with visual feedback that might be missed at normal speed. Switching your focus might feel awkward initially, but with consistent practice, your ability to discern spin quickly and react accordingly will improve significantly. Remember, every bit of practice helps in making these transitions smoother and more instinctive. Keep up the dedicated practice, Paul, and you'll find yourself getting better at reading serves in no time.