Ping pong is undoubtedly a pretty enjoyable game. However, every person has a different outlook on this game. Most like to play it as a simple game while others prefer an extra level of excitement and fun when it is a little challenging even if they may be playing just for fun.
Combine your serves and daze your opponent
Being unpredictable should be your primary aim when it comes to ping pong serves. It is a fact. If you play with a superb ping pong player you will never know what’s coming. Do not serve the same way every single time. Alternatively, you can throw a quick-serve followed by a pure spin then do a short serve; mix up several serves to confuse your opponent.
Mixing up several serves acts to confuse your opponent; as a result, he will have to react fast. The same applies to the game itself; changing the angles and direction of the ball will surprise your opponent, and you will be tough to beat or invincible.
Keep it low when you hit a return
Keep in mind that your target is not to return the ball but to hit the ball so low that it will be harder for the opponent to hit back without hitting the net. The closer the ball gets to the net, the harder it will be to hit it back in a perfect way without fouling yourself. Therefore, keep your returns very low to keep your opponent from making manoeuvres with the ball or being so creative with their returns.
Apply the 10,000 hours rule
Practice practice practice! This is the basic rule to become a master of almost anything you do in life. The same applies to any sport like basketball, soccer, and even starting your business. To be a master in the game of ping pong, practice. This tip is more beneficial for those who are aiming at becoming professionals than those who want to play it just for fun or to beat their friends.
Analyse your opponent's gaming style
Most players will follow a pattern and like any other game, ping pong is just the same. As a matter of fact, the pattern will be more noticeable when your opponent is a good player. You may not be able to predict every move of his, but it is either he is more of a spinner, or he is hitting hard. When you notice the pattern, you will, without doubt, be able to find a better position and hence increase your odds in winning the game.
Develop a good forehand
You must have a killer forehand if you want to be great at playing ping pong. Improve your footwork, then move from side to side; ensure you practice your forehand. It is also advisable to utilize various exercises to strengthen your forearm so that it will help you hit harder for a more extended period. Just like tennis, most of the times you will have to return and serve with a forehand; a great way to develop a strong forehand.
Serve with a spin
It is actually effortless to serve with a spin. Your opponent will never know what hit him when you learn how to serve with sidespin. It may be difficult to master that initially, but the moment you get it right, it will be a game-changer.
Use your entire body weight and not just your wrist to hit
In ping pong, most beginners make a mistake to hit the ball only with the power of the arm or wrist and that is a big mistake. You want to use your whole body weight if you're going to hit the ball with some power. Lower your centre of gravity and then rotate your entire upper body so that you hit the ball with some serious power.