Ping pong, or table tennis as it's more commonly known throughout the world, is a fast-paced, exciting game that can provide hours of fun for two players.Because of the relatively small size of a ping pong table and the minimal amount of equipment required, it can be enjoyed almost anywhere.All you need to play ping pong is a table, ball and paddle.When choosing a ping pong paddle, it's important to assess your individual play style, take advantage of different materials and find out what feels best in your hand.
Step 1: Determine what grip you want to use.
Think about the way you play and the paddles you use.Decide which grips are more comfortable for you.The most common grip in the West is the shake hand grip, which takes its name from the way of holding your play hand to shaking hands with someone you just met.Other players might feel more in control when using a pen hold grip, in which the handle is gripped between the thumb and forefinger.Before deciding which grip is better for your game, try serving and returning the ball a few times with each grip.A shake hands grip will allow you to make returns with more force, as well as put spin on the ball, while playing with a penhold grip puts the arm in a more natural position to use quick, brushing strokes.
Step 2: Start with a paddle.
When you are first learning how to play, pick up the cheapest paddle you can find.These basic paddles are usually made from one piece of molded plastic or a few thin layers of wood and offer no frills in terms of function or aesthetic.You don't have to break the bank buying a more expensive paddle if you're just starting out, because they can be very helpful.You will have to make sure you hit the ball directly each and every time you serve and return, as a cheap, plain paddle will teach you to be more precise.
Step 3: There is a ready-made commercial paddle.
You can find a garden variety ping pong paddle at any sporting goods store.The same dimensions, materials and unsophisticated surface layer are used to make these paddles.A basic store-bought paddle is all recreational players will ever need.Ping pong is more about technique than it is about equipment.A store-bought paddle can be used by a good player.Commercial paddles can be purchased cheaply and are often packaged with ping pong balls.
Step 4: Try out a paddle.
If you find yourself going through commercial paddles too quickly or just looking for something a little more heavy duty, pick up a competition grade paddle.Competition paddles should be at least 85% natural wood, so they will have a bit of heft to them, according to the official table tennis rulebook.Competition paddles are put together using higher quality rubbers and glues, meaning they will last longer and hold up better to intense play.Basic commercial paddles can be purchased in the same places that sell professional paddles, or you can order them online.
Step 5: Play with a paddle.
The rubber on the paddle needs to be attached to at least one side.A thin sheet of rubber is stuck to the flat surface of a ping pong paddle.The traction on the paddle will give you more control over the ball.If your play style involves using a lot of spin to change the direction of the ball, it is important that you find a paddle with some good rubber.It's important to have control over the ball so you don't have to worry about it sliding or bouncing off the paddle.The majority of ping pong paddles are made of rubber.The play characteristics of rubbers can vary a lot.
Step 6: Look at the rubber.
You can change the way you handle the ball with a textured paddle.Some paddles have a texture known as "pimples," which help the ball stick after it makes contact with the rubber layer.The pace of a game can be decided by a textured paddle.You will have more traction with a textured paddle, but you will give up a bit of speed and reactivity on returns.For players who use a lot of spin techniques, deep textures are not recommended.
Step 7: The rubber sponge should be thick.
Is it better to play with a thinner rubber sponge?The rubber has a sponge underneath it to absorb impact and offer grip and control.It changes the speed at which the ball can be returned.The thicker sponges allow you to hit the ball with more speed.Thin layers of rubber allow you to slow things down a bit.You have the option of how thick you want the sponge to be.
Step 8: It's a good idea to replace your paddle or rubber when it becomes worn out.
The rubber surface will begin to show signs of wear when you play with a paddle.Drop some money on a new paddle or replace the rubber and sponge when this happens.The grippiness and spring of rubber that has been worn thin will compromise your technique.There are places where the texture is less pronounced.If you use commercial paddles, you should buy a new one once it's past its prime.Attach a new paddle if you play with a custom one.
Step 9: Pick your own materials.
More experienced players often pick and choose the materials that go into building their paddles.You can modify your paddle by choosing the type of wood you want, narrowing down the rubber that gives you the right balance of speed and control, and incorporating other materials that alter the paddle's specifications.Pick and assemble each part of your paddle.Other materials used in ping pong paddles include carbon fibers, which increase the strength of the paddle and gives it extra snap, and compressed paper which reduces the paddles weight.You will start to form an idea of what kind of paddle you need after a while.
Step 10: You can choose a paddle that is designed for your grip.
The basic shape of all ping pong paddles is the same, but some types are better for certain play styles.A paddle with a thick, sturdy handle is a good choice for a classic shake hands grip.If you play with the penhold hand position, choose a lighter weight paddle with a longer, more narrow handle that will allow quick brushing motions of the wrist.Some paddles are designed to be used with a penhold grip.There is an extra fin of wood around the handle of these paddles for added security.
Step 11: Decide which side of the paddle you want rubber on.
Do you rubberize only one side of the paddle or both?Most of the time, this is a matter of preference.An additional rubber and sponge will add to the weight of the paddle, but you will have more control when alternating between forehand and backhand strokes.You can use a different texture and thickness for each side of the paddle.When you need to make different shots, you can switch between the sides of the paddle.Competitive players use two different rubbers on their paddles, each with slightly different properties.
Step 12: Try different sizes and weights.
There are many styles and sizes of ping pong paddles.It is possible to try out a few different types before making a decision.Lighter, more flexible paddles allow defensive players to regulate the speed and direction of the ball, while heavier paddles are better for offensive players who use quickness to win games.Until you find out what works best for you, play with different weights and dimensions.The thickness of the paddle determines the weight.Thicker paddles allow you to drive the ball with greater speed.Thinner paddles offer the most control over the ball.There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of paddle.It's about learning your strengths and weaknesses as a player and finding a paddle that is suitable for you.