Mental toughness

Tim Smith Asked 3 weeks ago

Greetings Jeff and Alois!  Not sure if I have a specific question but more of a rant.  I'm noticing at my amateur level a lot of awkward styles that I find personally very frustrating to play against.  These are home-spun, close to the table styles that usually employ pips or the seemiller grip etc.  I never mind losing to players who can truly rip the ball and play an athletic game like myself but it leaves a very bad taste in my mouth losing to a 70 year old who had never hit a forehand loop in his life.  I had a thought that if the table was made a foot bigger in every direction these players would go the way of the dinosaurs.  It just seems like we are playing two completely different sports.  I know this is an attitude not conducive to winning yet I can't seem to shake it.  In a tournament last weekend I played a guy who was physically incapable of warming up.  He went on to crush me.  I wondered if you have experienced this at all in your table tennis journey?

Alois Rosario Answered 2 weeks ago

Hi Tim,

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, and hear your frustration when losing against players with unconventional playing styles. This is a common experience for many players, and it's something that can indeed be challenging both mentally and physically.

Firstly, it's important to recognise that table tennis is a diverse sport that accommodates a wide range of styles and techniques. Players who use pips or have a different grip aren’t necessarily playing a lesser version of the game; they're just playing it differently. This variety is part of what makes table tennis so unique and interesting.

Regarding your specific frustrations, here are a few tips that might help you adjust your mindset and improve your game against such players:

• Adjust Your Expectations: Understand that every player brings their own strengths and strategies to the table. By expecting every match to play out in a certain way, you might be setting yourself up for frustration. Embrace the challenge of adapting to different styles.
• Focus on Your Own Game: Concentrate on what you can control — your own tactics, shots, and mental game. Instead of focusing on the perceived limitations of your opponents' styles, try to find effective strategies to counter them.
• Practice Makes Perfect: If possible, practice regularly with players who use "awkward" styles. This exposure will help you become more comfortable and less frustrated when facing similar opponents in competitions.
• Seek Advice: Discuss strategies with other players or coaches who have had success against such styles. They might have specific tips or insights that could be beneficial.

Keep pushing, Tim, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need more specific advice on tackling certain styles or improving your mental game.

We have a section on Tactics Against Table Tennis Styles which will also give you a lot of specific information.