The idea behind this stroke is to put enough topspin on the ball to nullify your opponent's heavy topspin, and allow you to hit a fast stroke with medium to heavy topspin.
Backhand Counterloop Video - 856x480 pixels (3.7MB)
480x240 pixels version (2MB)
Points to look for:
- This stroke is played from further away from the table (typically 6-8 feet) than other loop strokes due to the speed and spin of the opponent's loop.
- The feet are placed with the right foot slightly further back than the left foot. This is because there is very little body turn and no weight transference forward, and the slight loss in power caused by having the left foot forward is more than compensated for by already being in the correct stance for a forehand counterhit or loop.
- The weight is evenly distributed on the balls of the feet to allow quicker movement. Too much weight on the heels will slow down movement, and too much weight on the toes will affect balance.
- The knees are bent and the feet are around one and a half times shoulder width apart. The torso is also leaning slightly forward to give better balance and movement.
- Shoulders are in line with the legs.
- The arms are held roughly shoulder width apart, with around a 90 degree angle at the elbow.
