A lot of things started and stopped during the coronavirus pandemic, and some of the good ones seem fun to continue in post-pandemic life. For example, you may have become more serious about sports like ping pong, which you might have started during extra time at home. Buying a better table tennis racket is an excellent first step if you want to play more competitively – which can be a lot of fun. If you have a table tennis center in your area, check it out and consider joining. When you're around others who take the game seriously, you can find worthy opponents and begin working on improving your playing skills.
Racket sports are famous for being games of focus and concentration, and table tennis is no exception. There are also skills you need to learn, and they include understanding how to put a spin on the ball. When you can add different types of spin, depending on the shot you're making, and then you'll begin making it more challenging for those you play against. The idea is to contact the ball with a brushing motion to create the spin. It's something you can begin experimenting with, but it'll take some practice to become proficient. You may want to read more about techniques and talk to other players for help.
The other side of the equation means learning to play well against spin because you can be sure your opponents will try to challenge you in the same way. You'll need to watch the other player's shots and understand the spin based on racket movement. No two players are alike, but some actions are required for a spin that you can observe. Success relies on focus and concentration – the more you watch and plan, the better your shots and game will become. It's also likely you'll become a better player as you go up against opponents of greater skill; they will be more challenging for you.
An increasing number of players who are members of table tennis clubs hire coaches. If your budget allows for it and you love the game, it's something to consider trying. Some things are tough to learn from playing practice games and instead are developed with skill-building training exercises. A good example is footwork which in table tennis is small and incremental. Once you master a better technique, you'll understand the value. But it's something you'll pick up more in training than you will by playing. Your coach will watch you play and recommend various training skills matched to your needs.
