Floating Elbow

Christian , Asked 12 years ago

Hello Alois and Jeff,

When I want to play a topspin half distance or at the table (most of the time against a flat ball), I will still do a false movement: I raise the elbow and I down the wrist.  You have probably seen this a lot of time.

I have try to think " i learn a new stroke" but it's not enough. This mistake comes again. 

Do you have a solution for this problem.  

Thank you in advance.

Christian 

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Christian,

This is not an easy technique problem to fix.  I think it is a matter of putting a lot of attention on the movement of your elbow. We call it the floating elbow syndrome.

The cause is often tension in the shoulder.  When there is tension there and the shoulder doesn't move properly, then the elbow has nowhere to go and has to lift up.

Focus on your shoulder tension and the movement of your elbow.  Keep it down low.  This needs to be done in a practice situation many times before it will be good in a tight match situation.