Finding Your Tactical Game Within
Last weekend, I was having lunch with a friend of mine as we discussed the state of table tennis players in our group.
Among many other topics, the subject on being a tactical player came up. An interesting point was illustrated. “How can anyone become one if they haven’t learned?”
Everyone knows that there are many styles to playing table tennis.
There are players who have attacking or defensive styles as their primary strategy.
Then there are players who mix up their style. For instance, I prefer the style of having an attacking forehand and a chopping backhand for defense.
Don’t forget about players who hunt for rallies, hope that opponents make a mistake quicker, and players who rely on spin. However, don’t confuse this with making sound decisions.
So what’s the difference between tactical decisions and styles? To make it easier, here are a few examples on how to make a tactical decision:
• Where to place the shot?
• What spin should be used?
• Will a change of play cause the opponent to make mistakes?
A tactical game is a game where the players are doing everything possible, by putting into action every tactic or strategy learned, to win the match. Simply put!
A tactical player is a player who has developed their game to a point where they know how to perform every style. This player will have to be able to create combinations of styles of play at any given moment and do so in order to win the match. Keep in mind that changing styles is as simple as switching up one stroke.
When is the best time to switch up styles? Here are three thoughts to consider first before doing so:
• A tactical player doesn’t change their style of play because their current style isn’t working. This means that this player must dictate the game instead of succumbing to it.
Sometimes there are moments that can’t be helped but these must be controlled to a bare minimum. You must be the one who changes your style of play first in order to put your opponent in trouble.
• A tactical player must be able to think and react fast. They must also be able to be aware of the flow of the match.
This means that if your opponent shoots a screamer down the middle, then you must be able to respond with the correct stroke to set you up.
• A tactical player must also be a master of both defensive moves as well as explosive shots. This means that not only should you master forehand shots but you should be strong using your backhand as well.
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