What is Table Tennis?
Table tennis, also known as ping pong, is a sport in which two or four players hit a lightweight hollow ball made of celluloid or plastic back and forth with wooden or carbon fiber paddles. The game takes place on a hard table divided by a net. The game is popular in Europe, Asia and Africa, and is also gaining in popularity in the United States. Table tennis is governed by the International Table Tennis Federation, which was founded in 1926.
What is Another Name for Table Tennis?
Table tennis is also known by many other names, including ping pong and wiff-waff. The name ping pong was trademarked by the English firm J. Jaques & Son Ltd in 1901, and is used as a trademark name for the game in many countries. The name “wiff-waff” is derived from the sound made when the ball is hit back and forth.
History of Table Tennis
Table tennis is believed to have originated in England in the 1880s, when it was played as an after-dinner parlor game between family members. By 1901, the game was being played in England’s upper-class homes and clubs. In 1901, the English firm J. Jaques & Son Ltd trademarked the name “ping-pong,” and the game soon spread to the United States, where it was called “table tennis.” The game became an official sport in 1926, when the International Table Tennis Federation was founded.
Table Tennis Equipment
Table tennis is played on a hard table divided by a net. The table is usually 9 feet long, 5 feet wide and 30 inches high. The net is 6 inches high and is strung between two posts. The game is played with a hollow celluloid or plastic ball, and wooden or carbon fiber paddles. The paddles are usually 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The ball is 1.5 inches in diameter and weighs 2.7 grams.
Table Tennis Rules
Table tennis is played in singles or doubles. The two players or teams alternate hitting the ball. The ball must be hit diagonally across the table, and must bounce on the opponent’s side of the table before it can be returned. A point is awarded when the opponent fails to return the ball, or if the ball touches the net, or if the ball bounces on the opponent’s side more than once. The first player or team to reach 11 points wins the game.
Table Tennis Strategies
Table tennis is a fast-paced game, and players must think quickly and have good reflexes in order to be successful. Players must use a variety of strategies in order to be successful. Players should vary the speed, spin and direction of the ball in order to keep their opponent off balance. Players should also try to mix up their shots, using both forehand and backhand strokes.
Table Tennis Tournaments
Table tennis tournaments are held throughout the world. The World Table Tennis Championships is the sport’s most prestigious event, and is held every two years. The Olympic Games also include table tennis, and the sport is gaining in popularity in the United States. The US Open Table Tennis Championships is held annually in Las Vegas, and is one of the premier table tennis events in the world.
Table Tennis Leagues
Table tennis leagues are a great way for players to improve their skills and meet other players. Leagues are open to players of all skill levels, and are a great way to practice and compete. There are a variety of table tennis leagues in the United States, including the US Table Tennis Association and the National Collegiate Table Tennis Association.
Table Tennis Coaching
Table tennis coaching can help players improve their technique and strategy. Coaches can provide tips on how to improve your game and help you develop the skills needed to be successful. Coaches can also help with mental preparation, and can provide guidance and support for aspiring players.
Conclusion
Table tennis is a popular sport that is played in countries around the world. The game is also known by many other names, including ping pong and wiff-waff. The game is played with a lightweight hollow ball and wooden or carbon fiber paddles, and is governed by the International Table Tennis Federation. Table tennis tournaments and leagues are held throughout the world, and coaching is available to players of all skill levels.