Things You'll Need:
- Table Tennis Paddles
- Table Tennis Playing Tables
- Table Tennis Video
- Athletic Gear
- Table Tennis Balls
- Table Tennis Nets
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Step 1
Await service in a relaxed ready position. Your feet should be about shoulder width apart, with your shoulders squared toward your opponent and your paddle up and ready.
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Step 2
Watch your opponent's paddle as he or she serves. Watch for telltale tendencies - players typically have certain serves they like to use over and over, and you can try to capitalize on this.
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Step 3
Remain calm during the serve. Keep your paddle up and ready.
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Step 4
Recognize an upward swing and a forward-tilted paddle as a sign that topspin is coming. Be ready for the ball to bounce low and fast.
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Step 5
Block topspin by angling your racket forward as you return with a push or a block (see Related eHows section for more information on these shots).
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Step 6
Recognize a downward swing and a backward-tilted paddle as a sign that backspin is coming. Expect the ball to take a slow bounce and lose speed.
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Step 7
Neutralize backspin by tilting your paddle back as you return with a block or a push.









