how-to-hold-a-table-tennis-racquet

how to hold a table tennis racquet

The correct grip for a table tennis racquet consists of a straight grip and a cross-bat grip, each of which has its own characteristics and scenarios.

Straight Racket Grip

The straight racket grip is the most common grip and is suitable for most table tennis players. It is performed as follows:

The first joint of the thumb and the second joint of the index finger are held on both sides of the racket handle, while the remaining three fingers are naturally bent and stacked behind the racket. This grip allows for greater finger and wrist dexterity and is ideal for creating spin and short balls in the console.

Big Pincer Grip: The thumb and index finger grip the racket handle, the first knuckle of the thumb presses down on the left shoulder of the racket, the second knuckle of the index finger is pressed against the right shoulder of the handle, and the remaining three fingers are naturally bent to support the racket. The advantage of this grip is that the racket is more stable, and can effectively utilize the upper arm and forearm to focus on power.

Medium Pincer Grip: The first knuckle of the thumb is pressed against the left shoulder of the racket, the third knuckle of the index finger is pressed against the right shoulder of the racket handle, and the rest of the three fingers are half-extended and half-curved to support the racket. This grip combines the advantages of the large and small pincers and is suitable for occasions requiring flexibility and stability.

Small Pincer Grip: In front of the racket, the distance between the thumb and forefinger is smaller, and the grip is shallower. The advantage of this grip is the flexibility of the fingers and wrist, but it is not conducive to power generation.

Index Finger Hook Handle Grip: The thumb is close to the handle, and the index finger clasps the handle, forming a ring around the handle. This grip is suitable for occasions that require stable control.

Horizontal Grip

The horizontal grip is more popular in Asia, especially in Japan and China, and is described below:

Shallow grip: the middle, ring and little fingers naturally hold the handle, the thumb is on the front of the racket next to the middle finger, and the index finger is naturally straight and diagonally placed on the back of the racket. This grip is flexible and suitable for fast attacking players.

Deep Grip: The fingers and palm of the hand are close to the handle, with the thumb and index finger forming a “C” shape relative to each other. This type of grip is stable and solid, and is suitable for players who pull the arc ball.

Precautions for Gripping the Racket

The grip should not be too tight or too loose: too tight will make the wrist stiff and affect the power; too loose will affect the power and accuracy of the shot.

The thumb, index finger and middle finger are used as the support point when hitting the ball, and the ring finger and little finger are used in conjunction with each other. At the moment of hitting the ball, all five fingers and the palm of the hand should hold the racket tightly, and the hand should not shake, float or tremble when hitting the ball.

It is very important to choose a grip that suits you, as it directly affects the accuracy, power and control of the stroke. Beginners can try it according to their own habits and preferences, or ask a professional coach for advice.

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