Eye contact while the ball hits the racket

Paul Gevaert Asked 12 years ago

Should I maintain eye contact with the ball as it hits the racket as a general rule? Should I discontinue doing this once my stroke improves?

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Paul,

You should try to watch the ball as closely as you can throughout the rally. It is sometimes difficult to watch it as it is hitting your bat but as long as you focus on this you will give yourself the best chance of seeing the ball early and reacting appropriately.

This applies to your game now and forever. The best players in the world are watching the ball really well throughout the rally. They don't need to think about it too much because it has become a natural part of their games.

← Serving diagonally How can I practice alone →

Paul Gevaert Posted 12 years ago

The few times that I have practiced this technique I found my loop did improve but I wasn't sure whether or not to develop it as a habit.

A friend loaned me a video on loop mastery and I noticed that the coach did watch the ball as it hit his racket but wasn't sure if this was specifically for practice or to be performed during match play as well.

Thanks, as always!

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 12 years ago

No problems Paul.

Nicolas Piaser Posted 12 years ago

It is a technique almost essential for the anticipation to know or take place during the exchanges to react as good as possible.

I use it but I am still sad with the fast exchanges of heavy top spin.
As says Alois this technique must to become a reflex.

For example it can practice also it via video games or it fix constantly the opposite racket and the contact with the ball. ^^