Smashing and Blocking Topspins
Strokes
Muthu Kumar Asked 12 years ago
How to smash and block a really hard topspin?
Jeff Plumb Answered 12 years ago
Hi Muthu,
It is very difficult to smash a hard topspin. I would recommend you start by concentrating on blocking the ball back. The hard they topspin the ball, the less you will need to move your bat. The hardest part will be getting your bat into position to block the ball at all. You'll need to be watching the ball extremely closely and then just let the ball come to your bat and try to adjust the angle to counter the topspin.
Take a look at our Backhand Block and Forehand Block lessons as they explain these shots in detail.
Recommended Video
Counter a Slow Spinny Topspin
It can be difficult to know how to deal with a slow spinny topspin. Although the ball may be slow, the topspin makes it hard to return effectively. This lesson presents 3 options of how to counter such a ball.
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Muthu Kumar Posted 12 years ago
Thank you very much,Jeff
Does the blocking strength depend on rubber of the bat .
Jeff Plumb from PingSkills Posted 12 years ago
Not as much as getting the technique right. If you have a very fast rubber it will be harder to control the ball and block the ball back on the table. If you have a slower rubber, it will make this shot a bit easier. However the biggest difference is your ability to play the shot.
Muthu Kumar Posted 12 years ago
Thank you very much,Coach
Rohan Rurik Posted 11 years ago
I find I'm getting good at blocking, but the minute I try to counter hit a fast topspin, it all goes wrong. I get stuck i defense and I am incapable of reversing the attack. is it my timing?
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 11 years ago
Hi Rohan,
It may just be that you are trying to do too much with it. Think about just putting a little more forward motion. As you get more confident in this stroke then put a little more. The counterhit is just a small extension of a block. Do it gradually and you will find it easier.