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Table Tennis Basic Strokes - The Forehand Push

By Greg Letts, About.com

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End of Backswing

Photo of Forehand Push - End of Backswing

End of Backswing

(c) 2006 Greg Letts, licensed to About.com, Inc.
The ball has just bounced on the table, and the backswing has finished.

Points to look for:

  • The bodyweight has moved a little more onto the right leg.
  • The left arm has continued to move in tandem with the right arm.
  • Notice that the shoulders have turned more than the hips and waist.
  • Both shoulders have lowered a little, as the player continues to get into position. The right hand is at a height that is a little above the expected maximum height of the bounce of the ball.
  • The head has lowered to allow the player to keep watching the ball comfortably and closely.
  • The player is not behind the ball, but is on the left side instead, to allow a comfortable swing from the forehand side.
  • The angle of the bat is a little open, with the top edge of the bat pointing slightly upwards due to the slight cocking of the wrist.

Index: Table Tennis Basic Strokes - The Forehand Push

  1. Ready Position
  2. Beginning of Backswing
  3. End of Backswing
  4. Contact with the Ball
  5. End of Follow-through
  6. Return to Ready Position

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