The Running Loop
There are many articles on footwork and there will continue to be since it is a crucial part of almost every sport.
In table tennis, balance is a key aspect of becoming a great player. By mastering your footwork, your swings will always be the same no matter what position you get into which will make for less error.
For the majority of time, when you miss the ball, it is most likely because your swing trajectory changed, and the reason it changed is probably because you were out of position or off balance. And most of the time, they are on shots that do not come nicely to your forehand or backhand, but are far away shots that you have to move for.
Starting at 2:40 in the video below you will see an excellent example of the three step loop by Wang Hao. From his ready position, he turns to his right and pushes off with his left foot starting his swing and always keeping his eye on the ball.
When his right foot touches the ground his arm is down and ready to swing. He then pushes off from that foot swinging his arm and connects with the ball when his left foot is landing.
His swing is the same as if he were standing still only he is leaping instead. Excellent footwork by Wang Hao gives him the opportunity to be the top ranked player right now.
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