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Table Tennis Basic Strokes - The Backhand Counterhit

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Beginning of Backswing

Photo of Backhand Counterhit - Beginning of Backswing

Beginning of Backswing

(c) 2006 Greg Letts, licensed to About.com, Inc.
The ball is coming to the backhand side and the decision has been made to play a backhand counterhit. The backswing begins the stroke.

Points to look for:

  • The right foot has lifted at the heel a little, as a small amount of bodyweight shifts to the left.
  • The hips, waist and shoulders have also turned to the left, although the head is still facing forward watching the ball.
  • The bat has only moved slightly backwards at this point. The amount that the bat moves backwards will vary from player to player, and will also be affected by the amount of power the stroke is hit with.
  • The left arm has not moved significantly, and will not do so throughout the stroke. Since very little weight is shifting, it is not required to move it for balance, and it is better left in the same position.

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