General Rallying Tips

• Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Use your training time to improve your shots and push your boundaries a little, and get a clear picture about what your limitations are. Then stay within those limitations when playing matches.

• Don't make guesses about where the ball is going - hold the bat in a neutral position and watch your opponent closely. Don't commit to hitting a forehand or backhand until you see in what direction your opponent has hit the ball. By watching your opponent closely, you will train your anticipation to work faster, and you will move more quickly to the ball.

• When you hit the ball, take note of where you have hit it, and move to where you are in the middle of the possible angles your opponent can hit.

• Too many beginners make the mistake of playing within the sidelines of the table. Cut the sidelines more often, and use the wide angles to make your opponent move to reach the ball.

• Training a few favorite serve and follow up patterns, or serve return and follow up patterns, can be handy and make your life easier. Just remember not to use the same patterns every time. A little variation here and there will help keep your opponent on his toes and make your favorite patterns more effective.

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