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Block

Table tennis / Popular

Absorb an opponent's topspin with a passive or active block.

What coaches agree on

  • Keep your racket out in front of your body at all times, ready to meet the ball immediately - there isn't time to wind up against a fast attack.
  • Drive the block from your legs and body weight transfer, letting your hand simply guide and feel the ball rather than generate the stroke.
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  • Keep your own pushes and serves low over the net, so your opponent is forced into a slower, higher shot that is easier to block.
  • Read how much spin the incoming ball actually has, closing your racket angle more against heavy topspin and opening it more against a fast, flatter shot.

Common mistakes

  • Trying to actively hit or add your own power to the ball instead of staying relaxed and letting the opponent's pace carry the return back.
  • Letting the racket lift upward through the ball instead of moving it forward or down, which sends the block long or off the end of the table.