Where to move and when

Table Tennis Footwork

Last updated 11 years ago

Ovind bjorgum

Ovind bjorgum Asked 11 years ago

Hi! When i play table tennis i often get the thought where i need to position myself and when. So i am wondering should i be moving constantly when i am not playing a stroke? Center at table hit stroke and then back to the center of the table again? Thx


Alois Rosario

Alois Rosario Answered 11 years ago

Hi Ovind,

I think moving back into the middle between shots is good in theory but not in practice because the ball is moving too fast.

I like to think about it more like following the ball.  By tracking the ball through the entire rally you will start to pick up a little earlier where the ball is going.  You don't need to move if the ball is coming back to you.  By tracking the ball well yo may start to feel that your opponent is suddenly hitting the ball slower to you.

So, follow the ball and it will tell you where and when you need to move.

Try this tracking drill in training and see how it feels.


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Ovind bjorgum

Ovind bjorgum Posted 11 years ago

Thanks for such a quick answer. Also should i hit the ball infront of myself in the middle or should i move to either left or right and do a forehand or backhand stroke? Thanks!


Alois Rosario

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 11 years ago

In general, you should try to do your stronger shot if the ball comes to the middle.  Just follow the ball and the decision will often be made for you.


Ovind bjorgum

Ovind bjorgum Posted 11 years ago

thanks for quick and helpfull answers i will these drills when i practice. Thanks alot Alois!


Alois Rosario

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 11 years ago

No problems Ovind.



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