How to Play Ping Pong for Beginners

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By Barbara Dunlap
eHow Contributing Writer

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Ping pong is a sport you can enjoy at any skill level. Beginners can bat the ball around, and more advanced players can slam it back and forth. To avoid frustration and get the most satisfaction out of the game, try and play with someone at your skill level. If you're a dummy when it comes to ping pong, you don't want to get paired with a pro.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Learn the basic rules of ping pong, including who serves first, how to serve and how to score. The rules are somewhat different for singles and doubles.
Step 2

Hold your paddle loosely, and keep a relaxed grip. Most beginners use a handshake grip--the same grip you would use if you were giving someone a loose handshake.
Step 3

Use your arms and the rest of your body--not just your wrists. Line up your torso and legs straight ahead each time before you hit.
Step 4

Keep your eyes on the ball. Learn to predict where the next bounce will go.
Step 5

Keep your paddle horizontal to achieve straight shots. If you tip your paddle upward, the ball will be high and easy for your opponent to return; if you slant it downward, you'll hit the ball into the net. Practice backhands and forehands with your horizontal shot.