Lobbing with Long Pips

Carl Duvall Asked 3 weeks ago

Hi Alois (and team),

I recently watched your video about lobbing and found it very informative.  I was wondering if you could offer any advice/suggestions, or maybe if you have/could do a video about lobbing with long pips (not against).  I play inverted/long pips and, while I am trying to incorporate twiddling into my game, I am curious if it would be possible to lob with long pips, and if so, what the proper technique might be.

Thanks in advance,
Carl

Alois Rosario Answered 1 week ago

Hi Carl,

Thanks for reaching out and I'm glad you found our video on lobbing informative.

Firstly, it's important to understand that lobbing with long pips will not generate the same spin or trajectory as lobbing with smooth rubbers. The ball will tend to float which makes it very difficult to control the lob.

Twiddling during a rally and lobbing can be particularly disorienting for your opponent. It is probably the better option.  If you lob with the long pimples the ball will float and often land quite short on the table which makes it easier for your opponent to smash.

If you get caught with the long pimples on the backhand it is probably more effective to chop rather than lob.

In the meantime, I recommend practicing these techniques during your training sessions. Perhaps start with some controlled drills where your training partner consistently smashes, allowing you to focus on adjusting your technique with the long pips and finding time to twiddle and use the inverted rubber.

Thanks again for your question, Carl. Keep twiddling, and let us know how you go with these tips.