Rushing my shots

Mental Preparation

Mandy Sutter Asked 13 years ago

When playing matches against better players than myself, I often start rushing my shots and making a lot of mistakes to the point where sometimes my game goes completely to pieces. It also happens near the end of matches - even when I'm well ahead, I'll often throw points away and end up losing. No amount of telling myself to calm down seems to help. Is there a trick or technique that might help?

Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago

Hi Mandy,

This sounds like a matter of nerves and tension. The only thing is to reduce that tension. Before each point, where you are starting to feel yourself rush, take a long deep abdominal breath. Then focus on your tactic for the next point. Breathing between points is a simple way of calming yourself down.

← Rubber options Volleying past the end line →

Notify me of updates

Add to Favourites

Back to Questions

Recommended Video

The First 3 Shots Decide the Rally – Master Them to Win

The key to winning more table tennis points isn't just about long rallies—it starts with the first 3 shots! In this video, we break down how to take control of the point early by focusing on spin, speed, and placement in your serve, return, and third ball attack.

🔹 Learn how to:
✔️ Plan your first 3 shots for maximum impact
✔️ Use spin, speed, and placement to disrupt your opponent
✔️ Avoid common mistakes that give your opponent easy points

Mastering the early part of the rally can give you a huge edge, whether you're playing against your toughest rival or just looking to level up your game. Try these tactics and start winning more points!

Watch Now

Thoughts on this question

Leslie Yin Posted 13 years ago

From my own perspective I find that if I'm playing someone who's better than I am, I have nothing to lose and don't have any pressure if I lose. It's even more relaxing knowing that if I can pressure my opponent, they'll be feeling more anxiety than me as they are expected to win.

Mandy Sutter Posted 13 years ago

Thanks Alois and Leslie. It is definitely a matter of nerves, being too easily intimidated and possibly sense of humour loss also. I will try what you suggest.

Rajesh Sawant Posted 13 years ago

Hi Mandy,

I completely understand your situation :) adding to alois's comments, after you deep breath try to put smile on your face and feel relax and then concentrate on your game and main thing dont rush on finishing game just relax, smile and try to concentrate this will help you alot.

Thanks,

Rajesh Suhas Sawant

Ji-Soo Woo Posted 13 years ago

Interesting. I use the "smiling" technique sometimes too and it actually helps.

Become a free member to post a comment about this question.