Be a Better Training Partner

I've recently started back into training again for my upcoming local table tennis season, and part of this process is arranging sessions with my regular one-on-one training partners to get some extra practice. I had my first one-on-one session yesterday, with a younger player with whom I always have a good session (Hi Ben!), which got me thinking a bit about what makes up a good training partner. Since the bulk of your table tennis training will be with somebody else, it's important to be a good training partner yourself - so here's some thoughts on how to be a better training buddy.

Be a Better Training Partner - Quick Tips

• Be prepared - plan your training drills in advance, make sure you have all your equipment and clothing ready to go, along with an adequate supply of training balls.
• Be punctual - respect that your partner's time is just as valuable as your own, and don't keep him waiting for you. (Although I must admit that somehow I'm always running 5 minutes late, no matter how early I start getting ready to leave!)
• Pay attention - especially when you are feeding your partner during drills. It's bad enough to lose concentration when performing your own drills, but at least you are only hurting yourself. But never let down your partner by goofing off during his drills.
• Turn off your mobile phone - unless you are an emergency worker or on call, I doubt that it is important enough to interrupt your session.
• If you notice your partner making a mistake in his technique or tactics, speak up and let him know. That doesn't mean you should start a running commentary on his training, and bear in mind that he may not agree with your advice, so it is his prerogative to ignore it. But a good training partner can often spot when something is wrong more easily than the player himself. And remember, be honest but polite when giving feedback or advice, your job is to give an accurate opinion of what is going on, not to sugar-coat things or be too negative.
• Be positive - keep the training focused but fun. Don't drag down your opponent with your problems or frustrations.
• Be appreciative of your partner's help. Good training partners are hard to come by!
• It's not all about you. Table tennis training with a partner involves two people, and as such each session should be of benefit to both of you.
• Be flexible and forgiving - remember that your partner is human, and anybody can have an off day now and then. The same goes for last minute cancellations due to work/family crisis's - give your partner some leeway, and hopefully he will do the same for you!
• Should you show your training partner your best stuff, such as serves, serve-returns, third-ball attacks etc? Hmmm, that's a toughie - I think that might need to be the subject of a whole separate article!

Conclusion

A good training partner is worth his weight in gold, and should be treated with respect and appreciation. Hopefully the above tips will help you ensure that you are always in demand among your peers as a training partner!