How to Learn Table Tennis in a Week | Beginner’s Guide

Welcome to our expert ping pong guide series where we will talk about how to learn table tennis in 7 days. Whether you’ve recently picked up a table tennis paddle for the first time or you’ve been playing in your basement with friends, you’re in the right place. Over the next seven days, we’re going to help you embark on a thrilling journey into the world of table tennis.

This guide is designed to take you from a complete novice to someone who can confidently step onto a table tennis court, armed with the skills and knowledge to enjoy the game. Each day, we’ll focus on specific aspects of table tennis, breaking down the learning process into manageable steps. But before we dive into the details, let’s start with the basics.

Gathering the Right Equipment

Before we jump into learning the game, it’s essential to ensure you have the right equipment. Having the correct gear is vital for both your development as a player and your overall enjoyment of the sport. Here are the key pieces of equipment you’ll need:

Buying a Table Tennis Racket

The techniques taught in this article should be practiced with a real racket with proper rubbers with sponge layers. These allow you to put spin on the ball. A cheap recreational ping pong paddle will not allow you to do this. You will need to spend a bit more but a decent racket for beginners can still be bought for under $40.

Check out some recommendations for good beginner rackets here.

Selecting the perfect table tennis racket is crucial for your game. It consists of three parts: the blade, forehand rubber, and backhand rubber. For beginners, an all-around blade offers control and balance.

Pay attention to the rubbers, as they affect spin, speed, and control. Seek advice from experienced players or coaches if you’re unsure which racket suits your style. Your racket is your weapon; choose it wisely for a winning game.

For a more in-depth guide on selecting the right table tennis racket, check out our dedicated blog post. You mifhrt

Choosing Quality Table Tennis Balls

The ball is another critical component in table tennis. Using quality balls can significantly impact your gameplay. These balls are 40mm in diameter, made of plastic, and weigh around 2.7 grams. While white is the standard color, you can also find orange ones for better visibility. 

Ensure a better playing experience by choosing balls from reputable table tennis brands, as low-quality ones are often thin and flexible, leading to frustration during play. Your choice of balls can significantly impact your gameplay, so opt for quality.

Read our detailed guide on selecting the right ping pong balls.

Setting Up a Practice Space

Now that you have your racket and balls, it’s time to create a suitable practice space. If you don’t have access to a table tennis club, consider starting with a beginner-friendly table at home.

Your choice of table can significantly impact your practice experience. While official tables are made of wood (MDF) and have specific dimensions, you can still have a great time practicing on more affordable options.

A table tennis net is an essential accessory. It should be 6 inches tall and slightly flexible to allow the ball to graze the top without bouncing off. Some players even try to play shots around the net.

Read our comprehensive guide on buying a ping pong table. Beginners can also see our article on best table tennis tables under $500.

With your racket, balls, and practice space in place, you’re now ready to start your journey into the world of table tennis. We’ll cover essential skills and techniques that will have you playing like a pro in no time. Let’s get started!

The Essentials: Racket, Table, and Ball – Day 1

Match Rules and Etiquette

Understanding the basic rules and etiquette of table tennis is essential for enjoyable gameplay. While we won’t delve into all the intricate details in this introductory session, here are some fundamental rules and etiquette tips to keep in mind:

Scoring: Table tennis games are typically played to 11 points, and you must win by at least two points. A match can consist of any odd number of games, as agreed upon by the players.

Serving Rules: When serving, toss the ball straight upwards at least 6 inches, ensuring it’s above and behind the edge of the table. You can only strike the ball once it starts descending.

Winning a Point: You win a point when you play a shot that lands only on your opponent’s side of the table, and they are unable to return it to your side.

Match Format: There is no official rule regarding the number of games needed to win a match. Players typically agree on an odd number of games (e.g., 1, 3, 5) to avoid draws. Discuss this with your opponent before the match begins.

Read our comprehensive guide on table tennis rules you need to know.

The Building Blocks: Grip, Stance, and Footwork – Day 2

In day 2, we’ll focus on the fundamental skills that form the bedrock of your table tennis prowess: grip, stance, and footwork.

The Correct Grip for Holding Table Tennis Racket

A proper grip on your table tennis racket is essential for control and versatility in your shots. Here are the three common and effective grips used in table tennis:

Shakehand Grip (recommended): The most widely used grip globally, the shakehand grip resembles the way you would shake hands with someone. Hold the racket handle as though you’re shaking hands with it. This grip offers excellent control and power.

Penhold Grip: In this grip, your racket handle is held between your thumb and forefinger, while the other fingers rest on the blade. This grip is popular in Asian countries and offers excellent control for close-to-the-table play.

Seemiller Grip: Less common but still effective, the Seemiller grip involves holding the handle between the thumb and middle finger, with the index finger extended along the blade. This grip provides versatility in shot placement.

Don’t grip the racket too tight. This is a big mistake that many players make. You want your hand and forearm to be relaxed.

Choosing the right grip largely depends on your personal comfort and playing style. Most beginners find the shakehand grip to be a comfortable starting point.

For more details on on grip choice read Penhold VS Shakehand: Grip Which Table Tennis Grip is Best?

The Proper Stance for Table Tennis

A balanced and stable stance is crucial for maintaining control and mobility during a game. Follow these steps to ensure you’re in the right stance:

Stand Square to the Table: Position yourself so that your body is nearly parallel to the table. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart.

Bend Your Knees Slightly: Flex your knees slightly to lower your center of gravity. This will help you move quickly and maintain balance.

Weight Distribution: Keep your weight evenly distributed on both feet. Avoid leaning too far forward or backward.

Free Arm: Keep your non-playing arm slightly bent and extended forward. This will help you maintain balance and react quickly.

Basics of Table Tennis Footwork

Footwork is a fundamental aspect of table tennis. Good footwork allows you to position yourself correctly for each shot and respond swiftly to your opponent’s moves. Here are some basic footwork tips:

Stay on Your Toes: Being on your toes allows for quick movement in any direction. It also helps you shift your weight smoothly.

Small Steps: Use short, quick steps to navigate the table. Avoid taking large strides, as they can slow you down.

Anticipate the Ball: Try to read your opponent’s shots and anticipate where the ball will go. Position yourself accordingly.

Recovery: After each shot, quickly return to your ready position in the center of the table. This prepares you for the next shot and maintains your balance.

Practice Agility Drills: Regularly practice footwork drills to improve your speed and agility on the table.

The Art of Serving in Table Tennis – Day 3

Serving is where every table tennis point begins, making it a crucial skill to master. A well-executed serve can put you in control of the point right from the start. Here’s what you need to know:

Types of Serves

Table tennis offers a variety of serves, each with its own advantages and challenges. As a beginner, it’s a good idea to start with the basics:

Forehand and Backhand Serves: These fundamental serves use either a forehand or backhand grip and motion, allowing beginners to focus on control and placement.

Topspin and Backspin Serves: Adding spin to your serves creates unpredictable ball movement. Topspin serves make the ball drop sharply, while backspin serves make it jump up.

Sidespin Serves: These serves include sidespin, causing the ball to curve left or right, making it challenging for opponents to anticipate.

Fast and Short Serves: Varying speed and length keeps opponents guessing. A fast, long serve can catch them off guard, while a short, delicate serve sets up attacking opportunities.

Ping Pong Serving Technique

To serve effectively, follow these key guidelines:

Toss the Ball: Begin by tossing the ball vertically, ensuring it rises at least 6 inches above the table.

Contact Point: Strike the ball when it falls lower to the table, slightly above to not give ball enough height for the opponent to play an attacking shot.

Spin Generation: Use your wrist and forearm to create spin, adjusting your motion and racket angle as needed. This should be avoided in the beginning because it comes with prcision and practice.

Follow Through: After contact, maintain your racket’s motion for added spin and control.

Strategic Placement: Aim your serves strategically, targeting your opponent’s weak side or exploiting their positioning on the table.

Returning Serves

To become proficient at receiving serves as a beginner, consider these tips:

Read the Spin: Pay close attention to your opponent’s racket and motion to discern the serve’s spin. If they brush racket horizontally, its a side spin. If they brush the racket vertically, expect a top spin.

Adapt Your Stroke: Modify your racket angle and stroke to counteract the spin; angle it downward for topspin serves and upward for backspin.

Placement Over Power: Prioritize ball placement over power, aiming for open areas on the table and keeping the ball low over the net.

Practice: Enhance your skills by practicing serves and returns regularly with a partner.

For a more detailed tutorial on serving, check out this article.

The Forehand Push in Table Tennis – Day 4

The forehand push is a fundamental shot in table tennis, and mastering it is crucial for maintaining control during rallies. Here’s how to execute this shot effectively:

Grip and Stance

• Begin with a shakehand grip and balanced stance.
• Start in the ready position with knees slightly bent.
• Take a short backswing as the ball approaches.
• Maintain a firm wrist.
• Meet the ball near the table, almost perpendicular to it.
• Follow through towards your target.

Ball Placement

• Control shot depth with racket angle and timing.
• Angle the racket upward for a short push, making early contact.
• Angle it downward for a deep push, contacting the ball later.
• Adjust the racket angle for directional control, targeting weak spots or unsettling your opponent.

Practice Drills

• Forehand Push to Forehand: Work on consistency and placement.
• Forehand Push to Backhand: Develop versatility.
• Random Placement: React quickly to shots with varying placement.

Consistent practice is key. With the forehand push in your arsenal, rally control and offensive opportunities are within reach.

The Forehand Drive: Power and Placement – Day 5

Learn to execute the forehand drive effectively for an attacking edge:

Racket Grip and Stance

• Begin with a shakehand grip and balanced stance, similar to the forehand push.
• Start in the ready position with knees slightly bent.
• Take a larger backswing as the ball approaches, preparing for power.
• Open your racket more for topspin.
• Follow through forward and upward for added topspin and power.

Generating Topspin on the Ball

• Create topspin by brushing the ball with a low-to-high motion.
• Maintain a slightly open racket angle.

Ball Placement

• Control shot direction and depth.
• Aim for open areas or exploit your opponent’s weaknesses.
• Vary shot depth to keep your opponent guessing.
• Change the pace with a mix of fast and slow drives.

Practice Drills

• Improve your forehand drive with these drills:
  • Forehand Drive to Forehand Drive: Focus on topspin and control.
  • Forehand Drive to Backhand: Develop versatility.
  • Random Placement: React quickly to shots with varying placement.

The forehand drive is a potent, versatile shot to control rallies and pressure your opponent. Consistent practice builds confidence in its effective use.

The Backhand Push: Versatility and Control – Day 6

Master the backhand push for a versatile, defensive edge:

Racket Grip and Stance

• Begin with a shakehand grip, similar to your forehand shots.
• Start in the ready position with knees slightly bent.
• Take a short backswing as the ball approaches, keeping the wrist firm.
• Move your racket forward to meet the ball near the table’s side, maintaining near perpendicular racket positioning.
• Follow through towards your target on the table.

Ball Placement

• Achieve control and precision with the backhand push.
• Vary push length: use short pushes to set up attacks and long pushes to push opponents back.
• Adjust racket angle for directional control, targeting opponent weaknesses or exploiting their positioning.

Practice Drills

• Improve your backhand push with these drills:
  • Backhand Push to Backhand Push: Focus on consistency, control, and placement.
  • Backhand Push to Forehand and Backhand Drives: Simulate real-game scenarios.
  • Random Placement: React quickly to shots with varying placement.

The backhand push is a crucial defensive shot that enhances control and precision in your game. Consistent practice builds confidence in using this shot effectively.

The Backhand Drive: Aggression and Precision

Unlock the potential of the backhand drive for a well-rounded offensive game:

Racket Grip and Stance

• Begin with the shakehand grip, as with your other shots.
• Adopt the ready position, with your racket held forward and knees slightly bent.
• For a powerful stroke, take a larger backswing than the backhand push.
• As the ball nears, move your racket forward to meet it, keeping it slightly open for topspin.
• Complete your shot with a forward and upward follow-through.

Generating Topspin on The Ball

• Like the forehand drive, the backhand drive relies on topspin for effectiveness:
  • Brush the Ball: Sweep the ball from low to high when making contact.
  • Racket Angle: Maintain a slightly open racket angle for topspin.

Ball Placement

• Control the direction and depth of your shots with these tips:
  • Aim for open areas of the table or exploit your opponent’s weaknesses, especially targeting their backhand side.
  • Vary your drive speed to disrupt your opponent’s rhythm, alternating between fast and slow drives.

The backhand drive enhances your offensive arsenal, combining precision and power. Consistent practice empowers you to use this shot effectively in your game.

Practice…Practice…Practice

The 1-week challenge is just the beginning of your table tennis journey. To make significant improvements and ignite your passion for the game, invest around 20 hours of dedicated practice. Focusing on the fundamentals in this initial phase will lay a strong foundation for your future progress.

Before delving into advanced topics like rubber types and game styles, remember that mastering the basics is key. Prioritize your follow-through, balance, and power control, as these aspects are the bedrock of your gameplay.

Building a solid skill set in these areas will not only make you a formidable opponent but also keep your interest in the game alive and thriving. So, get out there, practice diligently, and enjoy the rewarding journey of becoming a proficient table tennis player!

Read our other article: 13 Reasons Why You’re Not Improving In Table Tennis

Essential Table Tennis Equipment for Practising Alone

Table Tennis Training Robots

Robots are the best and most efficient way to practice alone. There are a wide variety of ping pong robots available ranging from $40 – over $2,000. There are a wide variety of features available and for the most part when you pay more money you get more features.

A beginner player can get a lot of use out of a cheap robot under $200. The more intermediate priced ones, (around $450 – $800), feature much more variety in the shots and will be sufficient with good players. A wide variety of ping pong robots can be bought here on megaspin.net in and obviously on amazon.

Ping Pong Ball Catch Nets

Obviously a net like this will make ball clean up much easier, and if you are using a robot that has a ball return feature, the robot can keep shooting you balls without you having to reload them into the bot. Megaspin sells one here and also amazon has one here.

Observe and Improve: Exploring the Table Tennis World

The professional table tennis realm is a thrilling arena where top-tier talents showcase their skills, agility, and unmatched passion for the sport. It’s an electrifying world worth exploring.

Youtube The Legend Table Tennis Players

Get acquainted with table tennis icons like Ma Long, renowned for his offensive prowess, and Fan Zhendong, a rising star in the sport. These players have captured global admiration with their remarkable performances.

Also check out our collection of articles on some of the best pros here.

Stay Up to Date With Table Tennis

To stay connected with professional table tennis, keep tabs on major events such as the Olympics and World Table Tennis Championships. Following your favorite players’ journeys adds depth to your passion for the sport.

Whether it’s lightning-fast serves or heart-stopping match points, professional table tennis delivers unforgettable moments that keep fans hooked. Dive into this exciting world and elevate your love for table tennis.

Now that you know how to learn table tennis make sure to take action and practice what you just learned.

Good Luck Practicing!