What is Block Shot in Table Tennis?
Table Tennis is a sport requiring a high level of skill, speed, agility and accuracy. One of the most important shots used in Table Tennis is the block shot. The block shot is a defensive shot used to return the opponent’s shots with minimal effort. It is a key element of any Table Tennis player’s arsenal and can be used to great effect in matches. In this article, we will discuss what is a block shot in table tennis, how to do it, and its benefits.
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What is a Block Shot?
A block shot is a defensive shot used to return an opponent’s shot without much power or spin. It is an effective way of neutralizing an opponent’s attack and can help to keep the ball in play. Block shots are usually used to return a fast attacking shot from the opponent. This can be done by placing the racket in the path of the ball and using the racket to deflect it back to the opponent’s side of the table. Block shots are usually low in power and spin, but can be very effective when used correctly.
How to Do a Block Shot
Positioning
The first step in doing a block shot is positioning. You should position yourself so that you are able to reach the ball comfortably. You should be standing in a slightly crouched position, with your feet shoulder width apart. Your knees should be slightly bent and your body should be slightly leaning forward. You should also be holding your racket in the ready position, with the handle pointing downwards, and the racket face slightly open. This will help to ensure you have enough time to react to the opponent’s shot.
Timing
The second step in doing a block shot is timing. You should wait until the ball is close to you before attempting to block it. You should also make sure to time your block shot so that the ball does not hit the edge of the table. This will help to ensure that the ball does not bounce off the table and gives you more control over the shot.
Contact Point
The third step in doing a block shot is to make sure that you make contact with the ball in the correct spot. You should aim to make contact with the ball at the center of the racket. This will help to ensure that the ball does not bounce off the table and will give you more control over the shot.
Racket Face
The fourth step in doing a block shot is to make sure that you keep the racket face slightly open. This will help to ensure that the ball is deflected back to the opponent’s side of the table. You should also make sure that you keep your arm and wrist relaxed while doing this shot.
Follow Through
The fifth step in doing a block shot is to make sure that you follow through with the shot. This involves moving the racket forward after making contact with the ball. This will help to ensure that the ball is deflected back to the opponent’s side of the table.
Footwork
The sixth step in doing a block shot is to make sure that you use your feet to help you move into position. You should try to use your feet to move towards the ball and then move away from the ball after making contact. This will help to ensure that you are able to return the shot with minimal effort.
Benefits of Block Shots
Block shots can be used to great effect in Table Tennis matches and can help to keep the ball in play. Here are some of the benefits of using block shots:
- Control: Block shots allow you to control the ball more easily and keep it in play.
- Neutralize Opponent’s Shots: Block shots can be used to neutralize an opponent’s attack and can help to keep them from attacking.
- Force Opponent To Make Errors: Block shots can be used to force the opponent to make errors. This can be done by blocking their shots and forcing them to make a mistake.
- Efficient Use of Energy: Block shots require less energy to be used than offensive shots, and can help to conserve your energy for other shots.
- Confuse Opponent: Block shots can be used to confuse the opponent, as they may not know what to expect next.
Conclusion
Block shots are an important shot used in Table Tennis and can be used to great effect in matches. They can help to neutralize an opponent’s attack, force them to make errors, and conserve your energy. With proper positioning, timing, contact point, racket face, and follow through, you can use block shots to your advantage and help to give you the edge in a match.