Table speeds

Simon Lewis Asked 12 years ago

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Simon,

Table speeds and even the perceived speed of the ball in different size halls is something that all players find they need to deal with.

Many international competitions are held in halls with over 40 tables which means that your perceptions is thrown out.  It definitiel feels like the ball is travelling slower in a big hall.  You also tend to move further away from the table if you have more court area.

It is something that you need to allow yourself to get used to.  When you get to a new hall make sure you hit as much as possible.  When players go to a big tournament they will make sure they have hit at least 3 or 4, two hour sessions in the hall before they have to play their first match there.  You may not have that luxury but when you arrive, play as much as possible.

I remember the Commonwealth Games in Manchester in 2002 where the tables were the slowest I have ever seen.  At the start of the week the players were clean missing the ball because they were stopping on the table.  By the end of the week the players didn't know the difference.

Allow as much time as possible for adjustment.