Considering quitting table tennis

Nikolay M Asked 10 years ago

Hello Alois and Jeff!

I've been training for two year now. And while I got a bit better (e. g. more consistent in doing drills), everyone I play with can beat me. For example, there is a colleague who has been training for around 5 or 6 months, and he wins when we play.

My coach confirms that I'm picking up the game slower than an average trainee.

I've increased the time I train from 3 hours to 6 hours a week over these 2 years. And I cannot afford to devote more time to my training sessions unfortunately.

And I'm 28 years old.

I do like table tennis a lot but if I'm always going to be the weakest player maybe it's time to admit I need to try another sport. While I'm willing to put effort in my training maybe I'm just lacking necessary natural abilities for this game? On the other hand, maybe it is something that I can fix or compensate for (e. g. with tactics...)? Or just keep practicing...

I realize it's hard for you to give any advise without actually seeing me playing, but still could you please suggest something that will help me make the decision?

Thank you!

Nik.

Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago

Hi Nik,

Table Tennis is a great game for this reason. It is not an easy game to master.  Everyone learns at different rates.  

Don't compare yourself to others.  Try to see the improvement in yourself.  Even if you feel it is slower than others, any improvement is good and just the striving to improve makes you better.

If you like playing the game then that is all that is important.  Keep practicing, keep enjoying the training.