Friday 11 April 2014

Guide to Help You Choose Your Table Tennis Blade.

It is very confusing to choose your table tennis blade, especially if you are a new player. The type of blade that you choose is extremely important as it will define your style of play. A wrong choice can lead to a downward spiral and you won’t be able to master your strokes. Thus it is extremely important to understand what criteria should be kept in mind before choosing your blade. Here is a guideline to help you understand the important factors to consider before purchasing your table tennis blade.

Stiffness of the Blade
The amount of bend or flex that the blade offers is termed as its stiffness. If you want a blade that causes the ball to spin less but go fast, then a stiff blade is advisable, while for opposite attributes you should choose a flexible blade.

Weight of the Blade
If you want easy swing, lighter blades are a good option but with a heavier blade, there is more mass which results in better speed to the ball, after hitting it. However be mindful not to choose a blade that is very heavy for you as it can lead to injured wrists.

Speed
It is common knowledge that aggressive players use faster blades while defensives players opt for a relatively slower table tennis blade. Also those players who are looking for more spin tend to use slower blades; this is because a slower blade ensures more contact time between the blade and the ball, thus giving players more time to spin the ball.

Balance of the Blade
This factor relates to the fact that whether the center of gravity of the blade is near the tip of the head or near the handle of the blade. Hitters prefer blades with balance at the head as it helps to generate better spin and is also faster. On the other hand, blockers prefer table tennis blades with balance near the handles which offers better control. However, it is important to remember that the weight of the rubber can cause change in the center of gravity of the blade.

Size of the Head
A large blade will require more rubber to cover it up, thus resulting in a heavier blade, moving the center of gravity away from the handle. Thus, depending on where you want your center of gravity, you can choose the large or small headed blade.

Price
Lastly, the price factor also needs to be considered before making your purchase; especially if it’s your first time. There are a scores of manufacturers dealing in table tennis blades, thus you will have to search for reputed blades without being overtly expensive. Keep in mind, that only expensive blades do not guarantee good quality, it’s your style of play that will determine your choice of blade. Thus first identify your style and then make a purchase accordingly.


The above factors are very important and should be considered before purchasing a table tennis blade. You can either buy it from a manufacturer directly or scout a sports store which specializes in blades. Alternatively, there are amazing online stores dedicated especially to table tennis equipments, from where you can make your purchase.

Tuesday 1 April 2014

Understanding Table Tennis Balls.

Just as table tennis blades and its table is important to play a game of table tennis, one major component of this game is the table tennis ball. No game of table tennis can be played without the ball. In case for training, you will require good balls, which have been certified as ideal for training or playing table tennis professionally.

Table tennis balls are rated by a start system from 1 to 3; 1 being the lowest grade and 3 being the best one. For professional purposes or otherwise, it is advisable to use 3 star balls. You can either choose to purchase the balls individually or in packs of 3’s or even in bulk. 1 star balls are less durable and usually used for recreational purposes. On the other hand, 3 star balls are much better as they are highly durable and do not break easily.

The life of a table tennis ball can be extended greatly if certain factors are kept in mind and right precautions are taken.

·        * Keep it away from direct sunlight
·         *Should be away from excessive heat
·         *Extra moisture can damage the ball

You should reserve the 3 star balls for practice or rally drills. In case of multiple drills, you can use practice balls.

Table tennis balls are available under many brands, which can be easily purchased at any sports stores. However, not all brands offer best quality. Make sure to identify the good brands and purchase them in bulk so that you do not run out. Also, bulk buying helps to save considerably. Some brands specifically design balls for practice matches and professional games, therefore you can purchase your table tennis balls accordingly. While choosing your game balls, don’t be mindful about the cost, as you cannot compromise on your game play.


Apart from sports stores and professional game equipment vendors in your vicinity, you should also check out online table tennis equipment sellers. Most of these vendors sell authentic table tennis equipments and gears and also offer great deals and offers on the same. Even in case of table tennis balls, you can seek out the online stores who sell branded, graded table tennis balls.

One of the greatest advantages of purchasing through online stores is the freedom to choose, best bargains and ease of purchase. You can order your bulk pack of table tennis balls, right from the comforts of your house without having to tour the neighborhood for good quality balls. This freedom to choose and purchase with comfort is essential for table tennis players since they are busy training and honing their game skills. With grueling and hectic training, it becomes difficult to visit stores and buy supplies. Therefore, in such a case, online table tennis vendors are extremely handy. All you need to do is to zero in on the equipments that you require, place an order and pay through your online transactions. Upon confirmation, your equipments are delivered to your choice of location. Due to such flexibility and ease of use, purchasing table tennis balls online is much advisable.