Grip & Stance Instructions

Certainly! Grip and stance are crucial elements in table tennis that significantly impact your stroke execution and overall control. Here’s an overview of the different grips and stances commonly used in table tennis:

  1. Grip:
    • Shakehand Grip: The shakehand grip is the most popular and widely used grip in table tennis. It gets its name from the way the hand and racket handle resemble a handshake. Follow these steps to achieve the shakehand grip:
      • Hold the racket handle with your hand as if you were shaking hands with someone.
      • The index finger should be extended along the backhand side of the racket handle, providing stability and control.
      • The thumb should be placed opposite the index finger on the forehand side of the handle.
      • The other three fingers should naturally curl around the handle.
    • Penhold Grip: The penhold grip is less common but still utilized by many players, particularly in Asian countries. It involves holding the racket handle like a pen. Here’s how to achieve the penhold grip:
      • Hold the racket handle with your thumb and index finger, creating a V shape.
      • Rest the thumb on the backhand side of the handle, providing support and control.
      • The other fingers curl around the handle, similar to holding a pen.
  2. Stance:
    • Neutral Stance: The neutral stance is a balanced and versatile starting position. Follow these guidelines:
      • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, parallel to the table.
      • Keep your knees slightly bent, allowing for quick movement.
      • Position your body square to the table, facing the opponent.
      • Distribute your weight evenly between both feet.
      • This stance provides a good foundation for both forehand and backhand strokes.
    • Side Stance: The side stance is often used when preparing for a forehand stroke. Here’s how to adopt the side stance:
      • Position your non-playing shoulder toward the net, rotating your body sideways.
      • Keep your playing shoulder facing the opponent.
      • Place your playing foot slightly ahead of the non-playing foot.
      • This stance allows for easier rotation and generates more power for forehand shots.
    • Open Stance: The open stance is commonly used for quick lateral movement and backhand strokes. Here’s how to adopt the open stance:
      • Stand with your feet wider than shoulder-width apart, angled slightly away from the table.
      • Keep your knees flexed and your weight evenly distributed.
      • This stance facilitates quick lateral movements and provides stability for backhand strokes.