any-video-s-on-how-to-play-topspin-on-under-spin-returns-of-varying-lengths
shivgaur asked 6 years ago
Hi Tom and Dan,
I have great trouble playing top spins on under spin returns of varying lengths.
Are there any videos in the library which look at the technique aspect of playing top spin on under spin returns of different lengths?
Thanks!
Tom Academy Coach answered 6 years ago
Hi Shivgaur,
Yes this can be a frustrating problem for a lot of players! There are a few videos we have that will help, of course our forehand topspin against backspin will give you pointers on the overall technique that will help reduce mistakes.
But I would suggest having a look at this video- https://tabletennisdailyacademy.com/videos/half-long/
We speak a lot in this video about adjusting for shorter balls and the body position etc required. Also have a look at out video on how to play a heavy forehand topspin, this will help you generate more spin and safety on your open up shots against backspin.
You can view it here- https://tabletennisdailyacademy.com/videos/table-tennis-hack-the-heavy-forehand-spin/
I hope those are helpful and if you need any more help or have further queries just give us a shout on here!
shivgaurMany thanks for the quick reply Tom!
Yes, the half-long video was very instructive(and so was the heavy forehand topspin one). I guess I am not getting enough “brush” feeling and am unable to lift the balls over the net. Will surely try out the rolling ball brush drill.
I was also surprised(and scared!) to learn that the bat angle needs to be closed against heavy underspin returns.
I was under the impression that one has to open up the bat angle to topspin heavy underspins.
I have the following queries when playing topspin against half-long heavy underspin returns:
1. Do I brush the ball at the top of the bounce or a tad later after it falls down
2. Is the contact point on the underspin ball the same as for regular topspin against a normal ball?
3. Is the backswing of the arm short in this stroke?
Thanks!
No problem at all, yes I would agree that usually it’s developing this brush feeling and learning to not be scared of the closed bat angle against backspin (That’s a common problem for players).
So to answer your queries for 1 you should try to contact these heavy backspin balls just after the top of the bounce when the ball starts to drop just slightly.
2. You should focus on brushing up the back of the ball against backspin compared to a topspin ball where you are looking to get the contact on top more.
3. The backswing of this shot is still fairly short, just be sure to drop the bat below the ball to counter the backspin.
Try to stay relaxed overall with these types of shots and go for a fine contact and good acceleration when you can.
Hope that all makes sense for you!
Many thanks! Yes, now I have a fairly good picture and will try putting all these pointers into practice.
