How to Stand When Playing Table Tennis

Good footwork can be difficult to teach because each player's footwork is unique to his or her style of play. There are, however, some simple principles every player should keep in mind.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Athletic Gear
• Table Tennis Balls
• Table Tennis Nets
• Table Tennis Paddles
• Table Tennis Playing Tables
• Table Tennis Video

1. Stand about the distance of your paddle and arm away from the table.
2. Bend your knees and stay on the balls of your feet.
3. Lean forward and hold your paddle up and ready.
4. Use your empty hand out for balance and counterweight.
5. Watch the ball at all times and try to keep from getting rooted in one position.
6. Get back to your central position and ready stance quickly if a shot takes you out of position.
7. Keep your head up.
8. Stay light on your feet.

Tips & Warnings

• Use some shots that you don't like - learn to hit them so that you won't have to shy away from them. This will improve your game drastically.
• Play for accuracy at first - add power and speed later.