When playingping pongyou will focus on various factors when choosing a ping pong racket to ensure you have a good and professional game at theping pong tableAt the same time, a ready-made ping pong racket may not suit your professional playing style as well as in the past, so you should look for a professional racket that matches your playing style. Below, we will explore some important factors in selecting a ping pong racket.
Differences Between Professional and Beginner Ping Pong Rackets
Professional and beginner rackets look similar, but professional players choose each part of the racket separately according to their needs. They usually look for rackets with more wood layers to increase game speed, while beginners prefer ready-made rackets that are affordable and offer more control.
Key Features for Choosing a Professional Ping Pong Racket
First and foremost, it’s essential to note that selecting a ping pong racket
The game at the ping pong table requires its own professional rules, and the choice of playing style and type of racket depends on various factors beyond personal preferences. Generally, the best ping pong rackets in the world are ranked based on four main criteria: control, speed, flexibility, and hardness. Next, we will review some important tips for choosing a ping pong racket.
Choosing Based on Racket Material
Advancements in technology have led to the use of new materials like carbon in racket production. This material boosts shot speed and is suitable for professional players. However, wooden layers still hold significant importance. The stiffer these layers are, the greater the shot speed but lesser the control. Beginners should opt for softer woods for better control.
Choosing Based on Racket Weight
The weight of the racket significantly impacts a player’s performance. Even an extra gram of weight can tire a player and reduce game quality. Professionals usually prefer lighter rackets for improved speed and accuracy.
Choosing Based on Racket Surface
The surface of a racket comes in various types that affect the playing style.
- Flat surface: High spin potential, ideal for aggressive styles.
- Short pimpled surface: More control with less speed.
- Long pimpled surface: Suitable for defensive play, capable of neutralizing the ball’s spin.
- Anti-spin surface: Similar to the flat surface but eliminates the ball’s spin.
Each type of surface suits a specific playing style. Players should choose the most suitable option based on their technique.
Choosing Based on Sponge on the Racket Surface
The surface of a ping pong racket consists of sponge and rubber, determining the speed of shots based on the sponge’s stiffness and softness. The rubber influences the spin. In other words, the stiffer the sponge, the more powerful and faster the shots become; however, control will decrease. Considering this factor, professional players should opt for firmer sponges.
Besides the mentioned factors, there are other elements that also affect the selection of a ping pong racket for professional play, which we will examine further.
How to Hold a Ping Pong Racket
Before selecting the racket, consider how you hold it. Currently, most players use theShakehandmethod to hold the racket, but some prefer thePenholdstyle. Depending on your skill level and playing style, choose a handle that aligns with your grip method and supports your playing style.
Playing Style in Racket Selection
It can be said that the more professional you appear in ping pong, the more personalized your choice of racket will be. In other words, each professional player has their unique style and playing type. On the other hand, amateur players generally use rackets suitable for general styles, and their choice of racket material is less sensitive.
Based on the mentioned factors, you should answer whether you are an aggressive player hitting powerful shots or if you prefer a defensive playing style for positioning and misleading opponents. You may also prioritize control and aim to deliver your shots accurately while directing your opponent from one side of the table to the other. Responding to these questions and determining your playing style will influence your choice of a suitable ping pong racket.
Ultimately, it should be noted that your specific needs and the style you have chosen in your game will influence your choice of a ping pong racket. Therefore, for a professional game, try several rackets for different shots to find the one that best suits your playing style and personal preferences.
