|
VARY YOUR STROKE TIMING WHEN PRACTICING
Ken Szeto
Timing for hitting the ball
is one of the most important elements for stroke consistency. If your technique
is sound but you keep hitting the ball into the net or off the table, you should
pay attention to the timing of your strokes. Here is a diagram showing the ball
going from left to right:
The ball can
be struck before, at, or after top of bounce (TOB), depending on the spin of the
oncoming ball.
The best
timing for stroking the ball in general:
-
Pushing against
backspin: Any time on or before TOB; off the bounce for fast return (more
risky yet very effective) or more towards/at TOB for better safety margin.
-
Looping against
backspin: TOB for maximum power (loop-kill), or on-the-drop for looping
with heavy topspin. Note - Only the best players can consistently loop against
underspin on-the-rise in game situation. You should master looping at TOB,
on-the-drop, and then work on on-the-rise.
-
Hitting against
backspin: TOB, with more open (90-150 degrees) racket angle and a lifting
racket motion upon impact. Tip-the heavier the backspin, the more open the
angle.
-
Smashing/looping
against no-spin or topspin: TOB is the best for maximum power and
consistency. Once mastered hitting at TOB, you can try hit it on-the-rise for
a speedy return. It often catches your opponent off guard.
-
Re-looping against
heavy topspin: Best timing is on-the-drop, with very closed racket angle
and longer stroke.
-
Counter-hitting
against topspin: TOB, with smooth but short stroke to catch the ball and
convert the oncoming topspin into a fast speedy return. More advanced players
can counter-hit on-the-rise but you should master the basics before trying
this.
-
Blocking against
topspin: On-the-rise for a fast return. Redirect your return to difficult
to attack places like the playing elbow and far/wide angles.
In conclusion, hit TOB for
power; on-the-rise for quick return; and on-the-drop for more spin.
With the Newgy's
consistency, you should practice your strokes using the best timing; e.g.,
hitting against topspin at TOB. Once you can consistently execute it in good
form, then you should learn to vary the timing for different desired results.
Keep your opponent guessing while you pile up points against him.
Courtesy of
Newgy Industries
Copyright © Ken Szeto and Newgy Industries.
|
|
