How Do Pro Ping Pong Players Hold The Paddle

Last modified: October 2, 2023

How do pro ping pong players hold the paddle?

Ping pong, also known as table tennis, is a popular sport played by people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, one of the fundamental aspects of the game is how you hold the paddle. In this post, we will discuss how professional ping pong players hold the paddle to maximize their performance on the table.

1. The Shakehand Grip

The most common grip used by professional ping pong players is known as the shakehand grip. As the name suggests, this grip mimics the way you would shake someone’s hand. To use the shakehand grip, follow these steps:

Hold the paddle in your hand with the handle resting on your palm.
Wrap your fingers around the handle, gripping it firmly but not too tightly.
Your thumb should rest against the side of the paddle, providing stability and control.
Ensure that the front of the paddle is facing toward the table.

The shakehand grip allows for a wide range of motion and flexibility, making it popular among professional players. It provides excellent control and precision, allowing players to execute various shots and techniques effectively.

2. The Penhold Grip

Another grip commonly used by professional players, especially in Asian countries, is the penhold grip. This grip gets its name from the way you hold the paddle, similar to holding a pen. Here’s how to use the penhold grip:

Hold the handle with your thumb and index finger, forming a circular shape.
Your middle, ring, and pinky fingers should rest against the back of the paddle.
The back of your hand should face toward the table.

The penhold grip provides a strong forehand attack and allows for quick transitions between offensive and defensive shots. It is known for its powerful and aggressive style of play.

3. The Seemiller Grip

The third grip we will discuss is the seemiller grip, which is named after its inventor, Dan Seemiller, a former professional table tennis player. This grip is less common among professional players but is worth mentioning.

Hold the paddle with your thumb and index finger on one side of the handle.
Your middle, ring, and pinky fingers should rest on the other side of the handle.
Your thumb should be positioned on the rubber side of the paddle.

The seemiller grip provides excellent wrist flexibility and allows for a unique style of play, with a mix of spin, power, and control. It is known for its tricky serves and deceptive shots.

Conclusion

In conclusion, how professional ping pong players hold the paddle can vary depending on their playing style, preferences, and grip technique. The shakehand grip, penhold grip, and seemiller grip are three common grips used by professionals. The shakehand grip offers versatility and control, while the penhold grip provides power and agility. The seemiller grip is a unique style that combines spin and control. Whichever grip you choose, the key is to find one that is comfortable for you and allows you to perform your best on the table. So go ahead, experiment with different grips, and find the one that suits your style of play!

Additional Ping-Pong Resources: