Tactical value of the forehand smash
Strategy
Paul Young Asked 12 years ago
My question is about the tactical value of the forehand smash shot between players of equal ability. I've watched a lot of matches in which the defending player manages to return the forehand smash with, what appears to be, relative ease.
You often see exchanges between attacking and defensive players that can go on for many shots – the attacking players often leaping into the air to gain some possible additional advantage. However a good defensive player can anticipate the smash and make a return from virtually any angle – so you have to wonder, purely from a tactical point of view, if the smash is worth it?
Of course from a spectator point of view these exchanges are a great spectacle.
Thanks for a great site and all your helpful videos.
Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago
Hi Paul,
Speed is one of the factors that can win you points. The other thing to look at are spin and placement. I think a combination of these things can win you points. If you always play with speed then your opponent can become used to it.
Recommended Video
When to Use Your Best Serve in Table Tennis (Most Players Get This Wrong!)
A lot of players don’t use their best serve enough — or worse, they use it at the wrong time. In this video, Jeff and Alois break down how to make smarter decisions about when to use your strongest serve and how to adjust based on your opponent, the score, and the pressure.
✅ What you’ll learn:
- Why holding back your best serve can hurt your game
- How to recognise the right moment to use it
- What mistakes players make with serve selection
- A 3-step routine to improve your serve strategy
Your best serve should win you more than just a few points — it should help you win matches.
Watch NowThoughts on this question
Become a free member to post a comment about this question.
Charlie Chung Posted 12 years ago
One thing I do when smashing against a good lobber is to hit one smash with 50% power, using the same form as the full smash. They usually have to dig to get it (because it doesn't go as far), and then I go back to full power. This usually disrupts their rhythm...
Good suggestion Charlie!