For every beginning ping pong player, the choice of a racket is the first major decision. Also, many want to own a table to play and practice at home. For them, considering a butterfly ping pong table is a common choice because it will take up less space when not used. Table choice depends on available space, budget, and where it will be located – some are durable enough to be kept outside if covered. Most people begin with a moderately priced table and move up over time. As a player's skill level grows, the need for higher performance tables and gear increases. They support play at a higher level.
Once you've selected a racket and possibly a table, the next priority for beginners is starting to understand the role of spin in table tennis. It's a significant way that ping pong is different from the other racket sports. There is no official count of the number of ways to put a spin on the ball, but it is what makes the game fun to watch and intellectually satisfying to play. Becoming familiar with spin and how it works is a rite of passage for every player. It occurs during the transition from beginner to intermediate player. You need to learn how to use it and protect against your opponent's use of it.
Having more than a surface understanding of the primary table-tennis strokes comes next after understanding spin. The to play better ping pong, it requires putting the two together. More focused training rather than playing endless practice games is a better way to develop excellent ping-pong skills. The addition of drills and practice footwork can rapidly improve your game. When combined with practice play, it makes a difference over time. Eventually, it will become time to learn to play against anti-spin. It's also necessary to play well against opponents who use rubbers that affect spin on the return ball.
Yet other players use different rubbers on their table tennis blades that also affect their return shots. You'll likely come up against many different playing styles, and you need to know how to deal with each one. Most players like practice because it gives them many chances to play the game – but don't over-practice at the expense of training drills and exercises. They may not be as much fun, but they'll pay off nicely in the long run. Playing doubles is another option, and you should try it to compare with singles play and decide which you like best. Once you have a table and racket, you're ready to play.
