How To Hold A Ping Pong Paddle Correctly

Last modified: October 7, 2023

Introduction

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, holding the ping pong paddle correctly is crucial for improving your game. It not only enhances your control over the ball but also prevents injuries. In this post, we’ll guide you through the correct way to hold a ping pong paddle and provide some tips to help you improve your grip and overall performance on the table.

1. Shakehand Grip

The shakehand grip is the most commonly used grip in table tennis. It’s simple, versatile, and provides a good balance of control and power. To hold the paddle with the shakehand grip:

Start by placing the paddle in your dominant hand, ensuring that the rubber side faces outward.
Wrap your fingers around the handle, with your thumb resting lightly on the rubber side.
Position your fingers comfortably on the backside of the paddle, making sure you have a relaxed and firm grip.

The shakehand grip allows for a variety of strokes, including forehand and backhand shots, and provides flexibility in adapting to different playing styles.

2. Penhold Grip

The penhold grip is less common but still popular among some players, especially in Asian countries. It provides excellent control and allows for powerful forehand shots. To hold the paddle with the penhold grip:

Hold the paddle handle as if gripping a pen or chopstick.
Place your thumb on the backside of the racket handle, along with your other fingers.
Your index finger should rest on the rubber side of the paddle for additional support.

The penhold grip is advantageous for quick, close-to-the-table play, but it may limit your backhand strokes compared to the shakehand grip.

3. Seemiller Grip

The seemiller grip is a unique grip named after its inventor, Dan Seemiller. It is less commonly used and characterized by the use of both sides of the paddle for forehand and backhand shots. To hold the paddle with the seemiller grip:

Place your index and middle fingers on one side of the paddle while the ring and pinky fingers rest on the other side.
Your thumb should wrap around the handle and rest on the backside of the paddle.
Adjust the position of your fingers to find a comfortable grip that allows you to switch between sides smoothly.

The seemiller grip requires practice to master, but it offers versatility in shots and unexpected angles that can surprise your opponents.

Conclusion

Mastering the correct grip for your ping pong paddle is a fundamental step in improving your table tennis skills. Whether you choose the shakehand, penhold, or seemiller grip, it’s important to find a grip that feels comfortable and natural for you. Remember to practice your grip regularly and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for your playing style. With consistency and dedication, you’ll soon see a noticeable improvement in your performance on the table.

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