How to Use Topspin in Table Tennis

Topspin in table tennis is an essential skill to learn if you want to control points, set up powerful shots and utilize the loop shot. Topspin causes the ball to drop faster than it would with just gravity acting on it. Here is how you can impose topspin to a table tennis ball.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Angle the paddle forward. Point the face of the paddle at the table. This will allow you to apply spin to the top of the ball and cause the ball to spin perpendicular to the table.

2. Lift and push forward as you strike the ball. Applying the spin is the tricky part because you still have to get the ball over the net. If you are serving, toss the ball and hit it forward while moving your arm upward as the ball is falling. If you are using topspin to return an opponent's shot, let the ball come to you and strike while lifting your arm to apply topspin. It's easy to overdo at first, which will cause the ball to hit the net, so practice applying the right amount of spin.

3. Aim to graze the top of the ball. This will help you apply the right amount of spin while accomplishing a good return. If you hit the ball with too much direct force, it will drop too quickly. Be careful, however, not to miss the ball altogether.

4. Be prepared for the return. Topspin will cause the ball to bounce quickly on the opponent's side of the table and rise off his paddle. Ideally, this means your opponent will hit long and you win the point. Another possibility is that the ball will come in high on your side so that you can hit a smash shot.

Tips & Warnings

• Finesse is the key to properly applying topspin. If you hit the ball too hard, you will have to impart even more spin to get the same results. Let the topspin shot set up a strong shot.

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