Playing Blockers

Peter Habich Asked 13 years ago

Hi Jeff,

I am still fascinated by your excellent training plan lessons and surely will be sad when it is over by the end of the year. It was a lot of kowledge and fun.

Here my question: Sometimes in my local club I play against older players (sometimes over 70 years old). They have been playing table tennis all through their life from childhood.

I started playing two years ago. But I never have a chance against these kind of players.  They don't move in front of the table,they hold their racket in front of their body,there is no visible backswing,but the ball still comes strong and fast.

So what could be their secret,what kind of attacking stroke do they apply, smash, block, or a sort of short topspin? How could i get them moving? Or do they have a different kind of bat?

Thanks

Pete

Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago

Hi Peter,

It sounds like these players have the advantage of experience on their side.  It may be that their reflexes and their ability to read where the ball is coming has been honed through years of experience.

It seems that they are just blocking the ball back.  Because it is coming back fast they are probably using normal inverted rubbers.

Often a good tactic against this sort of player is to slow the ball down a little and put more spin on the ball.  They will rely on your speed to outplace you.  By slowing the ball down it will give you more time.  Yu can also look at placement variations.  Don't necessarily play the ball wide because it will open up the angles for them more than you.  Think about playing into their crossover point and also to their weaker blocking side.  When you get the opportunity to make a winning shot you can speed the ball up.

In week 44 of your Premium lessons Training plan we work on this tactic of playing against blockers.  It is good to know you are enjoying the Premium membership and Training Plans.