How To Hold Ping Pong Racket

Last modified: October 7, 2023

Introduction:
When it comes to playing ping pong, one of the most important aspects to consider is how to hold the ping pong racket. The way you grip the racket can significantly impact your control, power, and accuracy during the game. In this article, I will guide you through three different grips commonly used in ping pong and discuss their advantages and disadvantages.

Eastern Shakehand Grip:
The Eastern Shakehand grip is the most common and widely used grip in ping pong. To hold the racket with this grip, follow these steps:

1. Start by placing the racket in your non-dominant hand with the handle pointing towards you.
2. Extend your index finger along the backhand side of the racket handle.
3. Wrap the rest of your fingers around the handle, creating a firm but relaxed grip.
4. The thumb should rest on the backhand side of the rubber, opposite to the index finger.

The Eastern Shakehand grip offers excellent control and versatility in shot selection. It allows for both forehand and backhand shots without requiring major adjustments. This grip is great for beginners and provides a solid foundation for developing your skills.

Penhold Grip:
The Penhold grip is popular among players in Asia, especially in China. To hold the racket with this grip, follow these steps:

1. Start by placing the racket in your non-dominant hand with the handle pointing towards you.
2. Grip the handle with all your fingers, similar to holding a pen or chopstick.
3. The thumb should wrap around the backhand side of the handle, while the four fingers hold the forehand side.

The Penhold grip offers more power and speed in executing forehand shots. It allows for quick wrist movements, providing better control over spin and placement. However, it can be more challenging to use for backhand shots as it requires more flexibility and adaptation.

Seemiller Grip:
The Seemiller grip, developed by US player Dan Seemiller, is an innovative grip that offers advantages for both forehand and backhand shots. To hold the racket with this grip, follow these steps:

1. Start by placing the racket in your non-dominant hand with the handle pointing towards you.
2. Extend your middle, ring, and pinky fingers along the backhand side of the handle.
3. Rest your thumb on the backhand side of the handle.
4. Place your index finger on the forehand side of the handle, slightly offset from the middle finger.

The Seemiller grip provides a natural separation between the forehand and backhand sides of the racket, allowing for efficient stroke transitions. It offers excellent control and power, especially for backhand shots. However, mastering this grip may require some time and practice due to its unique finger positioning.

Conclusion:
Finding the right grip that suits your playing style is crucial for improving your ping pong skills. Experiment with different grips, such as the Eastern Shakehand, Penhold, and Seemiller, to determine which one feels most comfortable and effective for you. Remember to practice regularly to develop muscle memory and improve your overall control and accuracy. So, go out there, grab your racket, and start practicing different grips to take your ping pong game to the next level!

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