how-far-to-step-back-when-opponent-attacks
J_Mark asked 4 years ago
Hi coaches,
as an controlled attacking player (lower local league), I sometimes struggle when one of my returns is a litlle to high or even pops up, for instance because I misread the spin. In this moment, I am not really sure about how far to step back when I see that my opponent is going to play a fast topspin or even a smash. Usually und without thinking I step back several metres, trying to catch the ball or to counter-top spin if it is an unexpected poor shot. But normally my chances are not very good because of the angles and the spin of the incoming ball. On the other hand: staying near the table and trying to block is also tough because there is so little time to react, to get in a good position, to get the bat angle right and so on.
So what would you suggest (apart from the fact that is hard to react on a fast top spin/smash anyway…;-), do you have any advice on this?
Thanks so far for all your great videos and explanations that really do help!
Joerg
Dan Academy Coach answered 4 years ago
Hi Joerg, glad to hear you are enjoying the videos and the Academy that’s great! Yes this can be a tricky one when the return goes high and you know the opponent will play a smash or fast topspin. I would say, even if it is hard to react and block it is better to not drop back too far from the table, the disadvantage if you do is that even if you manage to return the ball you are in a difficult position and it is hard to get back into the table.
So try to just step back a couple of small steps and really focus on staying low and with your weight forward to try to be in a good position for a block. What’s also important is to try to read early and spot where the opponent is going to put the ball so you can give yourself the best chance to return it. So keep an eye on their bat angle and body shape to pick up signals on their direction.
Of course the next stage is working on the return of serve to be confident to read spin and keep the ball low, of course this takes time and practice but will reduce the times you are forced back and the opponent can attack you like this. Hope that’s helpful and anything else on this topic you can reply below 🙂
Dan
J_MarkHi Dan,
thanks for your detailed and quick answer.
Especially not standing to upright when expecting the opponent‘s attack is something I really must keep in mind… But I‘ll try not to drop back so much next time and see how it works.
Stay healthy – both of you!
🙂
