TABLE TENNIS

Table tennis is an indoor game played on a table board by two opposing players as a single or by two pair of opposing players known as a double game.

Table tennis involves hitting the ball over a net from one half of the table to the other. In the game, the player sends the ball using a bat before it bounces again from one side of a table to the other over a net. The game is started with service from any part of the table. The game of table tennis can also be called the ping pong game.

Table tennis, also known as ping pong, is a popular indoor sport played on a table divided by a net. It is played by two or four players who use small paddles to hit a lightweight ball back and forth over the net. The objective of the game is to score points by hitting the ball in such a way that the opponent cannot return it successfully.

Here are some key aspects of table tennis:

Equipment

1. Table: The playing surface is a rectangular table measuring 2.74 meters (9 feet) in length and 1.525 meters (5 feet) in width. The table is divided into two halves by a net.
2. Ball: A small, lightweight ball with a diameter of 40 millimeters (1.57 inches) is used. The ball is usually made of celluloid or a similar plastic material.
3. Paddles: Players use wooden or carbon fiber paddles, also known as rackets or bats, to hit the ball. The paddles have a rubber coating on both sides that provides grip and spin.

Gameplay:

1. Serve: The game begins with a player serving the ball diagonally from one half of the table to the other. The ball must bounce once on the server’s side and then over the net to the opponent’s side.
2. Rally: After the serve, the players take turns hitting the ball back and forth, allowing it to bounce once on their respective sides of the table. Each player must return the ball before it bounces twice on their side.
3. Scoring: Players score points when their opponent fails to return the ball successfully. A point is awarded for each missed return or when the ball fails to clear the net or hit the table. Games are typically played to 11 or 21 points, and a player must win by a margin of two points.
4. Spin: Table tennis is known for its emphasis on spin. Skilled players can generate various types of spin on the ball, such as topspin, backspin, or sidespin, which affects the ball’s trajectory and bounce.

Variations:

Table tennis can be played in different formats, including singles (one player on each side) and doubles (two players on each side). It is also played at different levels of competition, ranging from casual play at homes and recreational centers to highly competitive tournaments and the Olympic Games.

Table tennis requires agility, hand-eye coordination, quick reflexes, and strategic thinking. It is a fast-paced and exciting sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

BASIC SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES OF TABLE TENNIS

The fundamental skills required for table tennis game are;

  1. The grip
  2. The service
  3. Backhand stroke and forehand stroke
  4. The footwork
  5. The drop shop
  6. The smash
  7. The lob shot
  8. The smash
  9. The chop

The demonstration of the basic skills

EVALUATION

  1. Briefly describe table tennis
  2. Table tennis is otherwise known as what?
  3. State three basic skills and techniques of table tennis

ASSIGNMENT

Mention five benefits of table tennis

See also:

Officials of gymnastics and their duties

Gymnastics

Basic Swimming Strokes

Career Guidance in Physical and Health Education

Puberty

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