Forehand Topspin Contact

Strokes

Johnny Long
Johnny Long Asked 9 years ago

Hey,

I've been told to contact the ball at 3 o'clock, kind of on the side of the ball when executing the forehand topspin. 

Is this correct? 

Thanks much. 


Alois Rosario
Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago

Hi Johnny,

I like to contact the ball right behind the lone of the ball so that you get pure topspin.  This will allow you to generate more speed later.


Recommended Video

Backhand Counterhit

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on mastering the backhand counterhit, a fundamental shot that can significantly elevate your table tennis game. In this detailed tutorial, we dive deep into the three critical aspects of executing a flawless backhand counterhit:

  1. the feet position
  2. the start position
  3. the finish position

Not only will you learn the correct techniques, but we'll also highlight common mistakes to avoid, providing you with practical solutions to refine your skills. Whether you're a beginner looking to improve your consistency or an advanced player aiming to increase the speed of your backhand counterhits, this video is packed with valuable insights and practice tips tailored for all levels. Join us to transform your backhand counterhit into a powerful asset in your table tennis arsenal.

Watch Now

Thoughts on this question


Jared Peterson

Jared Peterson Posted 9 years ago

I'm sorry Alois but what exactly is the "lone " of the ball


Alois Rosario

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 9 years ago

Oops sorry.. Line…  Meaning the path that the ball is coming to you.


Johnny Long

Johnny Long Posted 9 years ago

Ok, thanks for the reply Alois.

So if I contact the ball at 3 o'clock, I wouldn't really be getting pure topspin, but some sidespin?

Thanks. 


Alois Rosario

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 9 years ago

Yes that is right.  Aim for pure topspin.


Jean Balthazar

Jean Balthazar Posted 9 years ago

See here: http://www.pingskills.com/table-tennis/strokes-and-technique/sidespin-forehand-topspin/

I find the sidespin topspin is a little more difficult to execute because the margin for error in the meeting of the ball's and the bat's trajectories is smaller. If you hit straight against the ball's trajectory (pure topspin) and you mistime your shot a bit, there's a good chance you'll still hit the ball. If you try to hit on the side of the ball, the same kind of error can make you miss the ball completely.

I often use the "hook shot" when I'm forced wide away on my forehand side and I have to dive to reach the ball. As I know I will probably not have the time to come back to the table if my opponent makes a successful block, I try to force an error with heavy sidespin (and the associated lesser topspin). It often works. But I keep it as a surprise variation.


Become a free member to post a comment about this question.