What is Backspin in Table Tennis?
Backspin, also known as underspin, is a technique used in table tennis to reduce an opponent’s ability to return the ball. It is created by hitting the ball in such a way that it rotates backwards off the racket. As the ball travels, it creates a low-pressure zone underneath it, making it difficult for the opponent to return.
Why Use Backspin?
Backspin is a great way to defend against an opponent’s aggressive shots. It slows down the pace of the game and puts pressure on the opponent to make a return. It can also be used as a way to surprise an opponent and catch them off guard.
How to Create Backspin
Creating backspin is not as hard as it may seem. Below are some tips on how to generate backspin in table tennis:
Grip
When creating backspin, it is important to have the right grip on the racket. The most common grip for backspin is the backhand grip. This grip is used to create spin with the backhand side of the racket. To use the backhand grip, hold the racket with your palm facing down and your thumb and index finger close together.
Stroke
When hitting the ball, use a short, quick stroke. To create backspin, the racket should move from low to high, brushing the ball from underneath. This will cause the ball to spin backwards off the racket and create a low-pressure zone underneath it.
Contact Point
When striking the ball, it is important to make contact with the ball as close to the table as possible. This will ensure that the ball has enough spin to create a low-pressure zone.
Tips to Deal with Backspin
Dealing with backspin can be a challenge, but there are some tips that can help you get the upper hand. Here are some tips on how to return backspin shots:
Grip
When returning a backspin shot, it is important to have the right grip. When returning a backspin shot, the most common grip is the forehand grip. To use the forehand grip, hold the racket with your palm facing up and your thumb and index finger close together.
Stroke
When returning a backspin shot, use a short, quick stroke. To return the ball, the racket should move from high to low, brushing the ball from above. This will cause the ball to spin forward off the racket and create a low-pressure zone underneath it.
Contact Point
When returning a backspin shot, it is important to make contact with the ball as close to the table as possible. This will ensure that the ball has enough spin to create a low-pressure zone.
Anticipation
Anticipation is key when dealing with backspin shots. It is important to be aware of where the ball is going so that you can prepare yourself to return it.
Footwork
It is important to have good footwork when dealing with backspin shots. Make sure to use quick and precise steps to get into position to return the shot.
Follow Through
When returning a backspin shot, make sure to follow through with your stroke. This will ensure that the ball has enough spin to create a low-pressure zone.
Conclusion
Backspin is a great technique to use in table tennis. It can be used to slow the pace of the game and put the pressure on the opponent. It is important to have the right grip and stroke to create backspin, and it is equally important to have the right grip, stroke, anticipation and footwork to return a backspin shot. With practice and dedication, you can develop the skills necessary to master the art of backspin in table tennis.