Should I Use DHS Hurricane 3 on My Backhand? A Lesson from Ma Long

Summary

In this insightful video, Coach EmRatThich addresses the common question of whether amateur players should use DHS Hurricane 3 on their backhand, like Ma Long. He explains that while Ma Long’s technique is exceptional, his choice of equipment is not suitable for most players. Instead, Coach EmRatThich emphasizes the benefits of European rubbers for amateurs, highlighting their forgiving nature, ease of use, and better performance on backhands. Ultimately, he advises players to focus on building their technique first before experimenting with advanced equipment, offering a strategy for improvement without blindly copying pros.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ma Long is a legendary player, but copying his equipment setup may not be beneficial for most amateur players.
• 😀 The equipment that works for Ma Long is optimized for his exceptional technique, not necessarily for average players.
• 😀 Amateur players should focus on improving technique first before worrying about the specific equipment they use.
• 😀 European rubbers are often better suited for amateur players because they are more forgiving and easier to handle.
• 😀 European rubbers offer softer sponges, higher bounce, and a built-in catapult effect that aids in generating speed and spin.
• 😀 The forgiving nature of European rubbers allows players to loop, block, and counter with greater stability, even with less perfect timing.
• 😀 Ma Long uses Chinese rubbers like Hurricane 3 on his backhand for tactical reasons, not just power—he disrupts the opponent's rhythm with awkward ball trajectories.
• 😀 For most players, Chinese rubbers like Hurricane 3 on the backhand will be difficult to use, especially for generating power and handling passive strokes.
• 😀 If you're a club player with a rating between 1200 to 2200, using Hurricane 3 will likely lead to frustration, as it demands perfect technique and timing.
• 😀 The key to choosing the right equipment is to align it with your current skill level—use European rubbers until your technique reaches a higher level of refinement.

Q & A

Why should amateur players avoid using DHS Hurricane 3 on their backhand?

Amateur players should avoid using DHS Hurricane 3 on their backhand because it requires perfect timing, control, and technique to handle effectively. Without these skills, the rubber will become a burden rather than an advantage, making shots more difficult and frustrating.

What is the main difference between Chinese rubbers like Hurricane 3 and European rubbers?

Chinese rubbers like Hurricane 3 are tacky and offer more control and spin but require excellent technique. European rubbers, such as Tenergy 05, are more forgiving, with softer sponges and higher bounce, making them easier to use for amateur players with less-developed skills.

Why does Ma Long use Hurricane 3 on his backhand despite being a forehand-dominant player?

Ma Long uses Hurricane 3 on his backhand to disrupt his opponents' timing and make the ball's trajectory awkward. This strategy helps lower the opponent's shot quality and forces them to make mistakes, making his backhand a more deceptive tool in rallies.

What is the advantage of European rubbers for amateur players?

European rubbers provide a significant advantage for amateur players because they are more forgiving, with features like higher bounce, softer sponge, and built-in catapult effect. These features help players generate speed and spin with less effort, making strokes easier to execute.

What should amateur players use on their backhand instead of Hurricane 3?

Amateur players should use a fast, springy European rubber on their backhand, as it is easier to control and provides better stability. This allows players to loop, block, and counter with greater ease, even with compact strokes.

How does Ma Long's backhand differ from most amateur players' backhands?

Ma Long's backhand is not as fast as many other top players', but it is deceptive and difficult to read. His use of Chinese rubber and excellent technique allows him to control the game, disrupt opponents' timing, and create awkward angles, making his backhand a strategic weapon.

What is the key reason why European rubbers are preferred for backhand shots?

European rubbers are preferred for backhand shots because they are easier to handle for players who do not yet have perfect timing or technique. They provide better stability, speed, and spin generation, especially in passive strokes and rallies.

Why is it important to avoid copying professional players' equipment setups blindly?

It is important to avoid blindly copying professional players' equipment setups because the tools used by professionals are suited to their advanced skills and playing styles. Without the same level of control and technique, these setups can hinder performance rather than improve it.

When might an advanced player consider using Hurricane 3 on the backhand?

An advanced player with excellent hand control, timing, and technique may consider using Hurricane 3 on the backhand if they wish to add deception and disrupt the opponent’s timing. However, this is a high-level tactic that requires mastery of control and stability.

What should players focus on before considering the use of Chinese rubbers like Hurricane 3?

Before considering the use of Chinese rubbers like Hurricane 3, players should focus on building their technique, particularly in terms of timing, wrist control, and footwork. Only once these skills are developed can they effectively handle the unique challenges of Chinese rubbers.