Proper Grip on different strokes
VARUN ARORA asked 6 days ago
Hello coach…I am a beginner TT player from India. After watching a lot of TT videos online, I have certain queries regarding the correct grip for different strokes as follows:
- As a thumb rule for neutral grip, should the index finger and thumb be parallel to each other (ie. thumb should rest on the rubber) or the thumb should not touch the rubber and instead point downwards (like some Chinese players for eg.) ?
- When receiving serves, should the grip be slightly biased towards the FH/BH or neutral grip is a better option?
- While doing FH topspin, should the thumb touch the rubber or point downwards ie. not touch the rubber (same query as question 1) ?
- For BH strokes, if I grip the paddle in a more dominant BH position (i.e. more pressure from the thumb on BH side), my BH shots improve but the BH to FH transition becomes slower, and vice versa for FH dominant grip wherein the BH shots become weaker. What should be the ideal grip in order to ensure that the FH-BH transition remains smooth?
- What is the correct grip for push strokes – thumb on the rubber or parallel to the index finger (same as question 1) as some players keep the thumb on the rubber and some players keep the thumb down on the handle away from the rubber ?
I have watched a lot of TT matches online analysing how top players grip the paddle for different strokes, hence the queries…….
Thanks in advance!!
Tom Academy Coach answered 6 days ago
Hey Varun! Ok so the best option when starting out is to try to have a neutral grip because this gives you the best for both backhand and forehand shots and also the switches between them. The thumb should be on the rubber for all your strokes but many playser shift it slightly higher for backhand shots, like you mentioned this helps the backhand but can make it moire difficult to switch, so you have to find what works best for you. For example I always switch my grip from backhand to forehand as I feel more comfortable with my shots like this and have found a way to switch quickly, but other players prefer to keep the grip as similar as possible to avoid having to switch.
Even on push shots on your last question point you should have the thumb on the rubber, this will give you maximum control and stability with the grip when playing these type of shots. Let me know if you have any questions on what I’ve said or need any more help. Tom 🙂
