Smash-like, but lower stroke
Table Tennis Strokes and Technique
Last updated 9 years ago
Richard Berke Asked 9 years ago
As I watched the video about smashes I saw that the application is for higher shots. You hit mostly flat, with good positioning, then the good weight transfer forward.
I face two opponents at our club that blast shots at me that are harder than my 'smashes', yet they are hitting from near their waist to at most their upper abdomen. Not even really chest high. Their racket motion is so fast, with no apparent wind up to my eye. The ball 'explodes' and I barely can make contact in reflex, let alone properly stroke a return. Maybe one out of 10 times I block okay. They seem to be generating their power with wrist slap. Some, but not much forearm. Their finish is all forward. Their contact is at the back of the table, not a flick of a short shot. Mostly they begin fully facing the table. Forehand they may turn a little, but more often it's from fully facing and they just blast cross-court.
Does this sound like something you've faced?
Since I struggle when I play them and they blast me, it appeals to me to learn. But... if their shots are really from bad habits I want to stick with better form, hit well.
Richard Berke
Columbia, MD
Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago
Hi Richard,
It sounds like it is a risky stroke. Some players do make flat smashes when the ball is lower but there is less margin for error with these strokes rather than playing a topspin when the ball is lower. I would stay with learning the topspin off the lower balls and save the smash for the higher balls.
Thoughts on this question
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Richard Berke Posted 9 years ago
Thanks. I think your point about margin of error is key. When my opponents are 'on', bam those shots are great. I do see some times where those shots stop at the net, or go too long. I'll avoid taking those risks.
Their extremely rapid contact and power of the shots are still trouble for me. I think I need to learn to block better than I do today. And I have to do so with instant reflex.
D K Posted 9 years ago
If it is so risky stroke,the why it is the first of all attacking strokes that always begins to appear in the matches of the beginners?
Many players use it often against me.
And it is quite useful for them,because I cannot see these shots.
My primary strategy is to force the opponent to make a slow spinny loop.
But I can do what I want,no one uses a loop against me. Just push,chop,smash or drive.