Stand My Ground or Back Off?
Resznotes asked 5 years ago
Hi, I’m wondering if and when it is best to stay at the table and block a smash vs back off and go for the lob? I’m new at this, but the ball definitely slows down on a smash the farther back I stand. Can you provide some tips on when to choose each defense? Is backing off preferred if time permits?
Thanks,
Sue
Tom Academy Coach answered 5 years ago
Hi Sue,
Yes for sure backing away form the table gives you more time and space to keep the ball in play. I think the best way is to take each one of these situations individually, I think if the ball is very high and short in the table then you need to back off as most likely the opponent will be able to hit a very strong shot and you need time.
However if you can get the ball deeper in the table and maybe with some arkward spin then you can try to move back into the table as perhaps they won’t be able to play such a strong shot. I think really the goal is to always try to stay close if possible so when you do back off against a high ball you always want to look for the opportunity to get back into the table to block or even coubter attack. Hope that is helpful for you!
