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Table of Contents

• Sporting Thoughts

• World News

• Training

  • How to Structure a Winning Table Tennis Training P …

    • Coaches View

  • Developing a Strong, Consistent Forehand Topspin S …

    • Player Profile

    • Drill Of The Week

    • Equipment

    • Video Of The Week

    • How Did We Do?

    • Subscribe

    • Free Mobile App

 World News 

Results and Events around the world

World Table Tennis

All the news, results and action from the latest WTT tournaments around the world including round up of all the action from the China Smash.

International Table Tennis Federation

All the latest news from ITTF events including a round up of the action from the Asian games which provided some amazing results from a 14 year old Iranian and raised the question, is China’s dominance about to be seriously challenged.

European Table Tennis Union

The European Individual Championships are currently taking place in Linz. You can check out all the action and results by clicking on the image or link.

Table Tennis England

Latest news from across the UK

If you would like to have your country , association or event featured in this section please email [email protected]

 Training 

This week I want to talk about something every serious table tennis player needs: a well-structured training plan. If you’re serious about improving your game and performing your best in competitions, you need more than just random practice sessions. You need a plan that focuses on the right mix of hours, frequency, intensity, and preparation for competition. Let's dive into how to structure your training for optimal results.

1. Assess Your Current Level and Goals

Before you even think about the number of hours or intensity, you need to assess where you’re at and where you want to go. Are you working towards becoming a national champion? Or maybe you're looking to improve your regional ranking? The more specific your goals, the easier it will be to build a plan that fits.

• For beginner/intermediate players: The focus will be on developing solid basic technical skills, footwork, and understanding the game.

• For advanced players: You’ll want to focus more on tactical play, refining technique, and match-specific drills.

2. Training Frequency: How Often Should You Practice?

How often you practice largely depends on your level and goals. That being said, consistency is key at every stage.

• Beginner/Intermediate players: Aim for 3–4 sessions a week. This is enough to see steady progress without overwhelming yourself. Each session should last around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Advanced players or competitive athletes: You’ll need to up the frequency to at least 5–6 sessions a week. Ideally, you should aim for two-a-day sessions on some days, with one session focusing on technical work and the other on fitness or match-play. These sessions can last between 2 to 3 hours each, depending on the day's focus.

This may sound a lot of sessions each week and you can do less , however the more hours you can do consistently will mean you will improve more quickly.

It's crucial to maintain this frequency to build muscle memory, develop reflexes, and increase your ability to perform under pressure.

3. Intensity: Balancing Hard Work and Recovery

When we talk about intensity, we mean both the physical and mental effort you put into each session. It's not about practicing until you drop, but rather working smart and knowing when to push and when to ease off.

• Physical Intensity: For drills and footwork exercises, high intensity is essential. You should be aiming to play at a pace that’s faster than what you experience in matches. This will prepare you to handle match pressure. Incorporate interval-based drills where you go hard for 30 seconds to a minute, followed by short rest periods.

• Mental Intensity: Focus is everything in table tennis. Sessions that involve tactical drills and strategy development should be mentally challenging. Train as if you're playing a real match. Visualize your opponent, think through your tactics, and learn how to stay calm under pressure.

• Rest and Recovery: The recovery period is just as important as high-intensity training. Plan for at least one full rest day a week to allow your body and mind to recover. During heavy training cycles, reduce intensity for a couple of days before going hard again.

4. Structuring Your Training Week

Here’s a breakdown of how you can structure a week of training, depending on your level:

Beginner/Intermediate Players: 4 Sessions a Week

• Session 1: Focus on technical drills (forehand & backhand drives, plus topspin strokes and don’t forget the push strokes , and serves). 1.5 hours.

• Session 2: Footwork and agility training. 1.5 hours.

• Session 3: Match play and strategy. 2 hours. (less for beginners)

• Session 4: Multi-ball training to develop speed and reflexes. 2 hours.

Advanced Players: 6 Sessions a Week

• Session 1: Morning – Technical drills (loops, spins, etc.), Afternoon – Serve and return practice. Total 4 hours.

• Session 2: High-intensity footwork and interval training. 2.5 hours.

• Session 3: Tactical and strategy drills focusing on match play scenarios. 3 hours.

• Session 4: Multi-ball training for reflexes and speed. 2 hours.

• Session 5: Match play and mental training (e.g., simulating competition conditions). 3 hours.

• Session 6: Video analysis and rest day. Light technical work if necessary. 1.5 hours.

This is an intense weekly schedule that you may need to tailor to your work/life balance and use evening sessions.

5. Incorporating Fitness Training

Fitness is an often-overlooked aspect of table tennis training, but it's crucial if you want to perform at a high level, especially in competitions where matches can last hours. Focus on these key areas:

• Agility and Footwork: Use ladder drills, cone drills, and other agility exercises to improve your quickness around the table.

• Core Strength: A strong core is essential for balance and generating power in your shots. Incorporate planks, leg raises, and rotational exercises into your routine.

• Endurance: Build stamina with interval sprints and long-distance running to help you stay sharp throughout long rallies.

6. Preparing for Competitions

As a competition approaches, your training should shift from purely technical or physical work to more match-specific drills. Here's how to taper your training:

• 4 Weeks Out: Focus on high-intensity drills and match play simulations. This is when you want to push your limits.

• 2 Weeks Out: Begin to taper off. Focus more on consistency and precision rather than raw power or speed. Start to refine your strategy.

• 1 Week Out: Light practice sessions with low-intensity drills. Mentally prepare by visualizing matches and working on relaxation techniques. Keep your body fresh, avoid burnout, and maintain confidence.

7. Mental Preparation: The Secret Weapon

Don’t underestimate the importance of mental training. Table tennis is a sport that’s as much about the mind as it is about the body. Practice staying focused, calm, and confident in high-pressure situations. Visualize your matches, your best shots, and how you’ll deal with tricky opponents. Remember, a strong mental game can be the difference between winning and losing, especially in tight matches.

By following this structured approach to your training, you’ll be able to maximize your performance and step up your game for competitions. Remember, the key is balance—between intensity and recovery, technical work and fitness, and of course, physical and mental training. Stick to your plan, and you'll see the results.

Best of luck.

To your continuous improvement

Phil Cox

 Coaches View 

This week I’m going to help you master one of the most crucial shots in table tennis—the forehand topspin. This shot is a cornerstone of modern attacking play, and being able to execute it with power, spin, and consistency is key to dominating rallies. Whether you’re trying to finish a point or put your opponent under pressure, a solid forehand topspin is essential.

We’ll break down the mechanics of the shot, and provide some training exercises to help you perfect it.

Understanding the Forehand Topspin Stroke

At its core, the forehand topspin is about generating forward and upward motion on the ball to produce spin, which helps you control the shot and makes it harder for your opponent to return. A well-executed forehand topspin has three key components: body position, timing, and racket movement. Mastering these elements will give you both power and control.

1. Body Position and Stance

Getting your body in the right position is the foundation of a strong forehand topspin. Here's how you should set up:

• Feet: Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Your dominant foot (right foot for right-handers, left foot for left-handers) should be slightly behind your non-dominant foot to give you better balance and power.

• Weight Distribution: Keep your weight on the balls of your feet, with a slight bend in your knees. This low, athletic stance allows you to move quickly and adjust to incoming balls. Lean slightly forward, so your weight is ready to transfer forward into the shot.

• Body Rotation: Your upper body should rotate slightly to your forehand side as you prepare to hit the ball. The rotation will help generate power when you swing through the shot.

Coaching Tip: Always stay relaxed in your stance. Tension in your muscles will limit your ability to generate power and spin.

2. Timing and Contact Point

Timing is crucial when hitting a forehand topspin. To get maximum spin and power, you need to hit the ball at just the right moment.

• Ball Contact: Ideally, you want to hit the ball at the peak of its bounce, or just after. Hitting the ball at this point gives you the right mix of speed and control. If you hit the ball too early, you risk losing control; too late, and the shot will lack power.

• Positioning: Ensure that you contact the ball in front of your body, slightly to the side. This allows for a smooth, forward motion, and you’ll have more room to generate spin with your racket.

Coaching Tip: Visualize catching the ball on your racket like it’s a rolling object, allowing your racket to brush over it as you guide the ball forward.

3. Racket Movement and Follow-Through

The movement of your racket is what gives the forehand topspin its characteristic spin and power. Here’s the breakdown:

• Start Low, Finish High: Begin with your racket low, around knee or waist level, and swing upwards towards the ball. The upward motion helps lift the ball and generate topspin. The more you "brush" the ball on contact, the more spin you’ll create.

• Angle of the Racket: Keep your racket slightly closed (angled downwards) during contact. This ensures that you hit the top of the ball, creating a brushing effect that generates spin while also keeping the ball on the table.

• Follow-Through: After making contact, continue the motion of your swing. Your racket should finish at shoulder height or higher, with your body naturally following the shot. The follow-through is crucial for maintaining balance and preparing for the next shot.

Coaching Tip: Don’t think about hitting the ball hard—focus on the smoothness of the stroke and generating spin. The power will come naturally from good technique and body rotation.

Training Exercises to Improve Your Forehand Topspin

Now that you understand the basics, let’s put it into practice. Here are a few exercises that will help you develop a consistent, powerful forehand topspin.

Exercise 1: Forehand Topspin vs Block

This exercise is great for building consistency in your forehand topspin under realistic match conditions.

• Partner or Coach Needed: Your training partner blocks the ball back to your forehand, and you respond with a topspin.

• How to Perform: Stand in your normal position and execute the forehand topspin while your partner feeds you consistent blocks. Focus on brushing the ball and maintaining control over several consecutive topspin shots.

• Coaching Points: Stay low, keep your body balanced, and focus on brushing the ball to generate spin. Start with medium pace and then increase intensity.

Exercise 2: Multi-Ball Forehand Topspin

Multi-ball training is an excellent way to practice your forehand topspin while working on your footwork and consistency.

• Coach or Partner Needed: Have your coach or partner feed you a series of balls at different speeds and angles.

• How to Perform: As each ball comes to your forehand, use your topspin stroke to return it. Focus on adjusting your position for each ball while keeping your strokes consistent.

• Coaching Points: Keep a smooth stroke, brush the ball for topspin, and be mindful of your footwork. Adjust your stance slightly for each ball to maintain balance and power.

Exercise 3: Topspin to Topspin Rallies

This drill focuses on improving your ability to hit forehand topspins in a rally situation, which is vital for match play.

• Partner Needed: Engage in a rally where both players play continuous forehand topspin shots.

• How to Perform: Both players should aim to keep the ball on the table with controlled topspin shots, gradually increasing speed and power as the rally progresses.

• Coaching Points: Focus on the timing and brushing of the ball. Keep your racket angle slightly closed and follow through smoothly with each shot. This drill will improve your ability to handle fast, spin-heavy rallies.

Final Thoughts

Building a strong and consistent forehand topspin takes time, but with focused practice, you’ll get there. Pay close attention to your stance, timing, racket movement, and follow-through, and use the drills above to develop muscle memory. Remember, it’s not just about power—spin, control, and precision are just as important.

Stay patient, stay consistent, and most importantly, enjoy the process of improvement. Every session you put in gets you one step closer to mastering the forehand topspin.

Best of luck.

To your continuous improvement

Phil Cox

 Player Profile 

• Full Name: Ma Long (马龙)

• Date of Birth: October 20, 1988

• Place of Birth: Anshan, Liaoning, China

• Nationality: Chinese

• Playing Style: Right-handed, shakehand grip, offensive style with a strong forehand loop

• Nickname: "The Dragon" (龙) – a nod to his surname "Ma," which also means horse, but he is often associated with the dragon in Chinese mythology.

• Coach: Liu Guoliang (former), Qin Zhijian (current)

Ma Long is widely regarded as one of the greatest table tennis players in history. His career has been marked by dominance in the sport for over a decade, and he is renowned for his versatility, mental toughness, and ability to peak at crucial moments in major tournaments.

Career Achievements and Significant Titles:

1. Olympic Games:

• Gold Medal - Men's Singles (2016, 2020): Ma Long is the first male table tennis player in history to defend an Olympic singles title, having won back-to-back golds in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020.

• Gold Medal - Men’s Team (2012, 2016, 2020): He has been an essential part of the Chinese team that won three consecutive gold medals in the team event.

2. World Championships:

• Gold Medal - Men’s Singles (2015, 2017, 2019): Ma Long has won the singles title three times, becoming the first male player since 1965 to achieve a three-peat at the World Championships.

• Gold Medal - Men’s Team (2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2022): Ma Long has helped China dominate the world team championships for over a decade, contributing to seven victories.

• Gold Medal - Men’s Doubles (2011, 2019): Winning the men’s doubles twice, once with Xu Xin and once with Wang Hao, Ma Long’s doubles skills are equally impressive.

• Silver Medal - Men’s Singles (2013): A runner-up in the singles event, showing consistency at the highest level.

3. World Cup:

• Gold Medal - Men’s Singles (2012, 2015, 2019): Ma Long has won the prestigious World Cup singles title three times.

• Gold Medal - Men’s Team (2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021): His contributions to China's World Cup team dominance are unmatched.

• Silver Medal - Men’s Singles (2009, 2014): Additional near-miss World Cup finals appearances highlight his longevity at the top.

4. ITTF World Tour Grand Finals:

• Champion - Men’s Singles (2008, 2009, 2011, 2015, 2016): Ma Long holds the record for most singles titles at the ITTF World Tour Grand Finals.

5. Asian Championships:

• Gold Medal - Men’s Singles (2009, 2011, 2013, 2017): He has consistently been the dominant force in the Asian continent.

• Gold Medal - Men’s Team (2007, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017): Integral to China's team dominance in Asia.

6. Asian Games:

• Gold Medal - Men’s Singles (2010): A significant title that underlines his dominance on all stages.

• Gold Medal - Men’s Team (2010, 2014): He has contributed to China’s unrelenting team success in the Asian Games.

Playing Style and Strengths:

Ma Long is famous for his incredible consistency, devastating forehand, and unmatched footwork. He combines the tactical precision of the Chinese system with a powerful offensive game that includes heavy topspin on both the forehand and backhand wings. He has also evolved to play with great versatility, capable of adjusting his game to exploit opponents' weaknesses.

• Forehand Loop: His forehand loop is considered one of the most potent weapons in the history of table tennis. Ma Long generates incredible spin and speed, giving him an edge in rallies.

• Backhand: Over the years, Ma Long has transformed his backhand into one of the best in the game, able to initiate and counterattack with both spin and power.

• Mental Toughness: Ma Long has consistently delivered under pressure, peaking at key moments in big tournaments. His ability to maintain focus and adapt to high-stakes situations makes him stand out.

• Footwork: His exceptional footwork allows him to cover the table quickly and maintain his aggressive positioning during rallies.

• Adaptability: He is well-known for his ability to adjust his tactics based on his opponent's strengths and weaknesses, making him incredibly hard to beat.

Legacy:

Ma Long is often referred to as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in table tennis, both by experts and fans alike. His achievements in both singles and team events, coupled with his longevity and ability to dominate an era filled with extraordinary talent, cement his place as one of the all-time greats. No male player has ever achieved the combination of Olympic, World Championship, and World Cup titles with such consistency.

Beyond his titles, Ma Long's professionalism, leadership, and humble demeanor have made him a respected figure in the sport. His influence extends to the next generation of Chinese table tennis players, who look up to him as a role model.

Notable Records:

• First male player in history to win the Olympic singles gold twice (2016, 2020).

• Only male player to win World Championships singles titles three times in a row (2015, 2017, 2019).

• Most ITTF World Tour titles by a male player.

• Longest undefeated streak in international play from 2011 to 2014.

Conclusion:

Ma Long’s dominance in table tennis is a result of a unique blend of technical mastery, physical fitness, and mental resilience. As a player who has defined an era, his name will forever be etched in the history of the sport as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, to have ever played. Whether through his Olympic triumphs, World Championship victories, or World Cup titles, Ma Long's legacy is unmatched, and his influence on future generations is profound.

 Training Drill Of The Week 

This training drill will help improve the receivers quality of backhand return and the servers movement across from backhand side to forehand and forehand counter topspin.

1. Serve Quality – Half-Long to Backhand

   • The server must aim for a precise half-long serve, landing close to the baseline, with slight backspin or no spin. This forces the receiver into a decision: push or attack. Emphasize keeping the serve low to make it harder for the opponent to attack aggressively.

2. Receiver’s Judgment on Ball Length

   • The receiver must quickly assess whether the ball is short enough to push or long enough to attack. This will help develop decision-making skills. Position yourself to cover both options until you’ve made a judgment.

3. Backhand Topspin Down the Line

   • Focus on timing and positioning for the receiver’s backhand topspin. Use your legs to transfer weight into the shot and play a controlled topspin down the line. Make sure you rotate your torso and finish the stroke with the bat pointing forward, ensuring balance for the next shot.

4. Transition from Serve to Forehand Positioning

   • The server must quickly recover and move into position to play the forehand counter topspin. Stress the importance of a fast, fluid transition with a split-step as soon as the serve is made. Players should be ready to pivot and use footwork to get into the right position for the counterattack.

5. Forehand Counter Topspin (Cross-Diagonal)

   • For the forehand counter topspin, the server should aim to play with good spin and speed across the diagonal, targeting the receiver’s wide forehand or crossover point. Encourage using a relaxed arm and engaging the legs for power, while keeping the stroke compact for control.

6. Body Rotation and Weight Transfer

   • Both players must focus on body rotation and weight transfer, especially for the forehand shots. Remember to engage their hips and shoulders, not just your arm, for maximum control and spin on topspin exchanges.

7. Anticipation and Recovery

   • Both players should be mentally prepared for the next shot after each stroke. Maintain good positioning by staying balanced after every shot. This involves anticipating where the opponent will likely play the next ball and adjusting footwork accordingly.

8. Free Play – Match-Like Situation

   • Once the structured part of the drill ends, both players should shift into match play mode. Stay focused on maintaining a high level of intensity and applying tactics. For example, mixing placement, spin, and speed to challenge their opponent in the rally.

 Equipment 

The JOOLA Dynaryz ZGX is one of JOOLA’s top-tier rubbers, designed for advanced and professional players who prioritize speed, spin, and power. Part of the Dynaryz series, the ZGX stands out as the fastest and spinniest in the lineup, tailored for aggressive, high-level play.

Key Features:

1. Extreme Speed:
   The Dynaryz ZGX is known for its blistering pace. Thanks to its Hyper Traction Technology, the rubber provides incredible speed on attacking shots, especially on power loops and counterloops. Players who rely on fast, direct play from both mid-distance and close to the table will appreciate the explosive nature of this rubber.

2. High Spin Potential:
   With an ultra-grippy Advanced Traction Surface, the ZGX excels in generating spin, making it ideal for players who like to dominate with spin-heavy loops, serves, and flicks. The tacky surface allows for maximum brush contact with the ball, ensuring that every topspin shot comes with heavy rotation.

3. Hard Sponge:
   The 52.5-degree sponge is quite firm, catering to players with excellent technique and the ability to generate their own power. This hardness gives extra control when engaging in high-speed rallies or counterattacking but can feel unforgiving if not struck cleanly. The firm sponge also helps in blocking, offering a solid feeling when absorbing incoming shots.

4. Precision and Control:
   While primarily focused on speed and spin, the JOOLA Dynaryz ZGX doesn’t completely sacrifice control. The rubber’s consistency allows for reliable placement, especially in fast exchanges. However, it’s more suited to players who already have good touch and control, as the ZGX can be challenging to tame for less-experienced players.

Performance Breakdown:

• Speed: 10/10
  The ZGX is incredibly fast. It’s perfect for offensive players who want to hit high-speed loops, smashes, and counterattacks without sacrificing spin. If you’re looking to outpace your opponents, this rubber will give you the edge.

• Spin: 9.5/10
  Spin generation is one of the strongest aspects of the ZGX. Whether on serves, pushes, or topspin shots, it allows for heavy spin that can trouble opponents. Players with good brushing technique will particularly benefit from the enhanced grip of the topsheet.

• Control: 7.5/10
  Although control is decent for such an offensive rubber, it’s not as forgiving as softer or slower rubbers. Players with solid technique and a well-developed touch will find control manageable, but intermediate players may struggle at first with the responsiveness of the ZGX.

• Durability: 9/10
  JOOLA rubbers are known for their durability, and the ZGX is no exception. The grippy topsheet holds up well over time, maintaining its spin potential for longer periods, even with regular use.

Ideal for:

• Aggressive Offensive Players: If your game relies on relentless speed and spin, the ZGX rubber will complement your play style perfectly. It’s best suited for attackers who prefer an all-out offensive approach, especially close to mid-distance from the table.

• Advanced to Professional Level Players: The ZGX is not a rubber for beginners or intermediate players looking for an easy-to-control option. The firm sponge and high responsiveness require a high level of skill to maximize its potential. Advanced players with good technique will find the rubber very rewarding.

Pros:

• Outstanding speed and spin generation.

• Excellent for power-based, attacking players.

• Durable topsheet with long-lasting performance.

Cons:

• Requires advanced-level technique to control.

• Firm sponge may not suit players who prefer a softer touch.

• High price point compared to other rubbers on the market.

Final Verdict:

The JOOLA Dynaryz ZGX is a high-performance rubber designed for the modern offensive player. Its combination of explosive speed, immense spin, and firm sponge make it a great choice for players who thrive on attacking relentlessly and overpowering their opponents. However, the ZGX is demanding, and players need strong fundamentals to fully harness its capabilities. For the right player, this rubber can be a game-changer, providing a dynamic blend of speed and spin at the highest level of play.

Available in red and black.

Get yours here: JOOLA Dynaryz ZGX

You can check out the 2024/2025 season range of equipment and great offers from top supplier Bribar Table Tennis.

Simply click the image or link below

Video Of The Week 

In future editions we will be featuring stories from players all over the world.

If you have an inspiring , entertaining or informative story you would like to share then please send this to [email protected]

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I hope you have enjoyed this weeks edition

Have a great week of table tennis!

See you next week

To your continuous improvement

Phil