Importance of Push for a Extra Offensive Player

Tushar Verma Asked 8 years ago

Hi Coach,

My club member asked me question which I was unable to answer. I turned to a very offensive player and I usually do 3rd ball attack and attack on services with flicks and topspins. I hardly use push almost not. My club member asked me that if I am not using the push why I practice it? And then I thought he was correct, If I am not using the stroke why I need to practice it? Please tell me the answer.

Alois Rosario Answered 8 years ago

Hi Tushar,

Your training should reflect what is happening in a match situation If you never use a push then there is little need to practice it, unless you think that by practicing it you can start to use it in a match.

I think it is an important stroke in a match situation for return of serve especially when they are serving short with a lot of backspin.

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Sachin Bhoi Posted 8 years ago

I think short push is better that flicks, If a flick is not meant to kill, then it can be countered at a fast pace by opponent.

Push is important because it gives a sense of control to ball. When playing you will be in a awkward position sometimes, thats when push will work. The precise pushing is all about reading spin, I think so.

Tushar Verma Posted 8 years ago

You mean to say that push should be used to change the pace of the rally.

Johan B Posted 8 years ago

Think of the push as a setup shot. A short push sets you up for a long push (or weak flick) from the opponent which you can kill. A long push if it's surprising or played to your opponent's weaker side sets you up for a weak attack from the opponent which you can likewise kill :)