Physical Fitness for Table Tennis

Just over 3 years ago I had a minor heart attack. I'm on the usual drugs associated with this Beta Blockers, Statins and Blood Pressure Tablets. I was reasonably fit at the time and have been able to return to normal exercise being just as fit if not more fit than I was before.

However I'm not allowed to lift weights above my head to any great extent and do sit ups/push ups but mainly anything else.I've been trying to come up with a programme of exercises aimed at Table Tennis to help my game. I play Badminton at work(doubles) and use the Gym(free standing weights, Rower, cycle, treadmill and cross-trainer) as well I'm over 50 (12st, & 6ft) and just want some good advice as what exercises are best as I feel it's been very hit or miss on this front? I lost 2 stone in weight before Christmas and this has obviously helped my movement. Hopefully I can pass some of the advice onto my 12 year old son who has been learning the game over the last 2 years and part of the reason for purchasing the Service & Receiving DVD's.

Hi Kevin,

It sounds like you are on the right track now.

I can't give advice as to physical training that you should do as I am not qualified in that area.

However there are plenty of drills that you can choose that will challenge you.  There are many footwork drills that you can choose from.  You can do this at your own pace and push yourself as hard as your medical specialists allow.

Take a look at the drills that we have set out in our Free Downloads under Training Drills.  Choose some of the 2 and 3 ball drills to start with and then progress to the more complicated. Again do these at your own pace.

Good luck with your fitness.  It is a game that you can do for a long time so don't wear yourself out too early!

We have a couple of articles on our Blog designed to help in this area but i stress make sure you get the all clear first.  Take a look at Weight Training Specifically for Table Tennis and Strength Conditioning for Table Tennis.

I hope your son enjoys the game.  Try to get him to work as much as possible on skills as hard as this is for a 12 year old.