Problems with second or third topspin

Claus Hamacher Asked 14 years ago

Hi Alois, hi Jeff,

although my technique is improving I still lose too many points as a result of my own mistakes. One problem for me is playing several fast topspins in a row.

I can play a nice attacking shot to start a rally, but sometimes the second and often the third topspin goes over the table.

I think the problem ist that when practising, the balls come with a relatively constant speed, whereas in a game situation speed builds up.

Any suggestion how to improve my game in this respect?

Thanks

Claus 

Alois Rosario Answered 14 years ago

Hi Claus,

This is a really common problem and one we are just about to film in our Premium lessons that you will see around week 37.

The problem is with the slight adjustment from the first ball to the second ball. The first ball you often have to lift because of the backspin or flatter ball.  The second, you need to adjust the angle of your bat very slightly over the ball more to get it down onto the table. So really focus on the second ball.  Work at getting over the top of the ball and going more forward with your stroke.

It ay feel like in a match situation the ball is increasing in speed during the rally, but often it is because we tighten up during the rally and which makes it feel like the ball is travelling faster.  During the rally try to maintain the rhythm and see if that helps.  Instead of thinking of the balls as the first, second, third etc, think of each ball as number 1 and play each ball as it comes.  You may even want to "count" to yourself during the rally, 'one', 'one', 'one'...  This will help you to keep the rhythm and remain more relaxed during the rally.