How To Hold Ping Pong

Last modified: October 7, 2023

How to Hold a Ping Pong Paddle Properly

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ping pong player, one of the most fundamental skills you need to master is how to hold a ping pong paddle. The way you grip the paddle can greatly affect your control, power, and accuracy in the game. In this article, we’ll guide you through the proper technique of holding a ping pong paddle to enhance your gameplay.

1. Shakehand Grip

The most common and widely used grip in ping pong is the shakehand grip. Here’s how to do it:

Hold the handle of the paddle with your dominant hand so that the paddle is perpendicular to your body.
Place your index finger on the backhand side of the paddle and wrap your other fingers around the handle.
Your thumb should rest against the rubber side of the paddle.
Maintain a relaxed grip without squeezing too tight.
Ensure that the paddle is balanced and aligned with your forearm.

The shakehand grip offers excellent versatility and allows for quick and smooth transitions between forehand and backhand strokes.

2. Penhold Grip

The penhold grip is popular among players in Asia, especially in China. Here’s how to adopt the penhold grip:

Grip the handle of the paddle as if you were holding a pen.
Rest the base of your thumb against the rubber side of the paddle.
Your index finger should be positioned on the backhand side of the paddle, while your other fingers wrap around the handle.

The penhold grip allows for greater wrist flexibility and generates more power in the wrist flick, making it effective for executing spin shots.

3. Seemiller Grip

The seemiller grip is named after American champion, Dan Seemiller. It’s a grip that differs from the traditional shakehand grip in terms of finger positioning. Here’s how to use the seemiller grip:

Hold the handle of the paddle in the shakehand style.
Place your thumb and index finger in a pinch grip on the backhand side of the paddle.
Rest your other three fingers on top of the handle.

The seemiller grip provides excellent control and stability, especially for backhand shots, as it allows the player to create a larger surface area for contact with the ball.

Conclusion

Mastering the proper grip is essential for any ping pong player looking to improve their game. Whether you choose the shakehand, penhold, or seemiller grip, practice and consistency are key. Experiment with different grips to find the one that feels most comfortable and suits your playing style. Remember to maintain a relaxed grip to enhance your control and maneuverability. With the right grip, you’ll be able to unleash your full potential on the ping pong table!

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