A proof of this is the number of people that want to learn its ropes. Well, if you are one of them, you might need to have a grasp first of the fundamentals of ping pong.
Objectives
The way to win in ping pong is quite simple: a player has to reach eleven (11) points. Before 2001, the score that is needed to win the game is 21 points, which is quite exhausting.
There are several ways on how you can score in ping pong. Of course, the basic idea here is to outmaneuver your opponent.
You can either make them hit the net or make their turns miss entirely.
Ping pong matches are usually in the form of best-of-five, best-of-seven, or best-of-nine. Each set will be decided by whoever scores eleven points first.
You can learn more about the essential ping pong rules by checking out the policies given by the International Table Tennis Federation.
Equipment and Players
Singles play requires the participation of two players. They have to go against each other.
Meanwhile, doubles will pit two players against a set of two players. However, it is possible that two players can go against a single player, especially during recreational matches.
When it comes to the gears, you are going to secure three things: a table, a set of balls, and a pair of rackets.
If you want to play on standards, the ball you need to get has a weight of 2.7 g. On the other hand, the official paddle or racket should be black on one side and red on the other.
The table, which is the most crucial equipment here, should be 9 feet (length) x 2.5 feet (height) x 5 feet (width). Based on the ITTF standards, the table should have dark green or blue coloration.
You can visit KingKongPong to explore some of the finest ping pong tables that you can get for professional and recreational use.
You should also invest in sports and cross-training shoes if you want to move comfortably.
Basic Skills
Just like in any other sports out there, ping pong has its own fundamental aspects that you need to master. The first that you need to master is the grip or the manner you hold the paddle.
I do recommend that you master the grip first. You have to learn the proper way on how to do it; otherwise, it would be difficult for you to change or adjust your grip later on.
You might find a comfortable way to grip your paddle. But if it is not correct, then it will just burden your gameplay.
The worst part of it is that it will cause you to be stuck on the beginner’s level. That’s a bad thing if you want to improve or polish your skills in this game.
At this point, you need to learn the appropriate “Ready Position” and other fundamental strokes and ball control. These are the pivotal techniques that would enhance your proficiency and familiarity with the game.
Of course, you should not also forget how to master the basics of serving. One should know that the right way to serve is compliant with the standards given by the ITTF.
Some Basic Rules
- The first player to score eleven (11) wins a set. The players will agree as to how many sets they would need to play.
- The players will do a toss coin to determine who will have the first service.
- A player will be given two serves per turn. When serving, the ball should be held by an open palm; it should also be tossed no less than six (6) inches up.
- The service ball should bounce once on the service side and must not hit the net. It must reach the other end and bounce once before it can be hit by the receiver.
- If the receiver cannot hit the ball, then a score will be given to the other player.
- A set is won if one player reaches eleven points with a lead of two points. If the match reaches 10-10, both players will serve in turn; they will keep on doing this until such time a two-point lead will be established.
Conclusion
These are the essential aspects of ping pong that you need to learn. While they may appear overwhelming, keep in mind that you don’t need to learn them at once.
In fact, the more you play ping pong, the more these things will come to you naturally.
That’s it for now. If you have questions, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.
