Easy method for returning serves (beginner / intermediate level)

Summary

In this video, Tom Lesniak offers a simple and effective approach to returning various types of serves in table tennis, focusing on backspin, topspin, and side spin. Aimed at beginner and intermediate players, the video teaches techniques such as the push for backspin serves, the controlled drive for topspin, and strategies for handling side spin by focusing on bat angle and stroke control. Tom also emphasizes the importance of observing the server's motion to identify spin and gain more time for accurate returns. With practice, players can improve their serve returns and build confidence in their game.

Takeaways

• 😀 Keep it simple: Beginners and intermediate players should focus on simple, controlled strokes when returning serves (push for backspin, drive for topspin).
• 😀 Backspin serves: To return backspin serves, use a short push stroke with adjustments in bat angle based on the backspin's intensity (more open for light, more closed for heavy).
• 😀 Topspin serves: Use a controlled drive to return topspin serves, adjusting bat angle based on the spin's heaviness (more closed for heavy, more open for light).
• 😀 Sidespin serves: Don't panic! For sidespin serves, either push (for backspin) or drive (for topspin), making minor directional adjustments as needed.
• 😀 Watch the opponent's racket: To determine the spin on the serve, watch if the racket moves upward (topspin) or downward (backspin). This helps anticipate the serve’s spin.
• 😀 Focus on timing: For a good return, contact the ball just before the peak of its bounce to avoid difficulties with the shot.
• 😀 Avoid large swings: Don’t try to make big, aggressive swings when returning serves. Keep your stroke short and simple for better control.
• 😀 Practice controlled strokes: By playing controlled pushes and drives, you will return more serves with accuracy and consistency, even with tricky spins.
• 😀 Confidence building: As you improve, gradually add more aggressive techniques like flicking or looping backspin serves and adding more speed to your drives.
• 😀 Progress at your own pace: Don’t worry about advanced returns yet. Start with basic returns, and as you become more confident, experiment with more complex techniques.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video is focused on teaching beginner and intermediate table tennis players how to return different types of serves, including backspin, topspin, and sidespin serves, using simple techniques.

How does the speaker suggest returning backspin serves?

The speaker suggests returning backspin serves with a short push, either with a backhand or forehand. Adjust the bat angle depending on the amount of backspin—open for lighter backspin and closed for heavier backspin. The push should be made just before the peak of the bounce.

What is the recommended timing for returning backspin serves?

The speaker recommends making the return just before the peak of the bounce, avoiding letting the ball dip too much, as that would make it harder to control.

What is the key to returning topspin serves?

The key to returning topspin serves is to use a controlled drive. For heavy topspin, the bat angle should be closed, and for light topspin, the bat angle can be more open. The drive should be smooth, and there is no need to blast the ball.

How can side spin serves be returned effectively?

Side spin serves can be returned with either a push (if combined with backspin) or a drive (if combined with topspin). The main focus should be on playing a positive stroke and aiming for the middle of the table or adjusting the aim to account for the spin direction.

What is the common problem faced by players when returning side spin serves?

The common problem is that players get panicked or too focused on the side spin, causing the ball to shoot off the bat in unintended directions. The speaker suggests playing a positive stroke to override the side spin.

What is the relationship between bat angle and spin when returning serves?

The bat angle is key to controlling the return. A closed bat angle is used for heavy backspin or topspin serves, while an open angle is used for lighter backspin or topspin serves. Adjusting the angle helps to control the ball’s trajectory and spin.

What does the speaker recommend focusing on as a beginner or intermediate player?

The speaker recommends focusing on mastering the basic techniques for returning backspin, topspin, and side spin serves with simple pushes and drives. Advanced techniques like looping and flicking should be tackled only once confidence increases.

How can players improve their ability to recognize the spin on a serve?

Players can improve by carefully observing the server's racket movement. If the racket moves downward, the serve is likely to have backspin, and if it moves upward, the serve is likely to have topspin.

What should a player do if they are unsure of the spin on a side spin serve?

If uncertain about the spin, the player should aim for the middle of the table, which allows for better control and reduces the chances of the ball shooting off unpredictably.