Missing forehand smashes
Table Tennis Strokes and Technique
Last updated 3 weeks ago
MD.Julkar nain wasi SDE Asked 1 month ago
hi Alois, I'm Wasi I have some problem with smashes when the ball is in in not so high position and not so low position, I keep smashing to the net it has become a very problematic for me can you help me get out of it
Alois Rosario Answered 1 month ago
Hi Wasi
Great to hear from you and thanks for bringing up this common issue. Missing those mid-height smashes can indeed be frustrating. Generally, the problem might be due either to the timing of your stroke or the angle of your racket at the moment of contact. Here’s what you can try to improve:
Try to play with a little topspin rather than a flat shot. This will add some safety to your stroke and still allow you to play a powerful stroke. Pay close attention to the angle of your racket. For balls that aren't very high, you need to open your racket slightly more than you would for a high smash. If you’re hitting the net, it's likely that your racket is too closed (angled down).
Aim to strike the ball at the highest point you comfortably can. If the ball is not too high, adjust your body position (bend your knees, lower your center of gravity) rather than waiting for the ball to drop to a lower, more awkward spot.
Good luck, and keep swinging!
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Kevin Rogers Posted 3 weeks ago
A problem I have is the footwork to get in aposition tohit it comfortably especiallif it is high or has sidespin.
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 3 weeks ago
Hi Kevin,
That is also very true. Try to use the time the ball is in the air to get into position. What I see is the ball almost becomes mesmerising when it is up that high and your feet stop rather than moving into position. The hand follows the ball and that leads to being unbalanced or being out of position when the ball gets to you.
If it has sidespin it becomes more problematic but try to watch carefully the contact of your opponent because this will give you information as to which way the ball will spin and also where you need to position yourself best to make the smash.