Table tennis has more than 300 million participants worldwide, according to the All About Table Tennis website. It is also a sport that is promoted by the International Table Tennis Federation as one that people of any age, ability and even disability can participate in for life. Regardless of what skill level you find yourself at, choosing an appropriate table tennis racket is the first step to improving your game.
Step 1
Determine your skill level. As with any sport, table tennis offers a wide variety of equipment options for both recreational and professional players. Beginning players can choose from many out-of-the-package rackets, and those looking to highlight a certain aspect of their game can select a custom-built racket. Older players can find special rackets that cut down on spin and make returns easier. If you live with a physical disability, special rackets are available that allow for spin and power attacks from longer distances from the table.
Step 2
Consider your play style. If you plan to buy a custom racket, you need to understand the type of game you play or want to play. Play some practice matches and have friends who understand table tennis watch you play. Record how many points you score from forehands and backhands and whether you favor topspin or backspin. Have your friends tell you if they think you play a more aggressive or defensive game.
Step 3
Select a blade type that meets your needs and highlights your strengths. If you play with a lot of spin, choose blades that are heavier and more flexible to increase the amount of spin you can achieve. Lighter blades with more composite materials and less wood tend to be better for playing quick, hard shots. The center of gravity of a blade can also affect play. Head-heavy blades favor players who like to hit and spin the ball, while handle-heavy blades lend more control and suit defensive players.
Step 4
Choose a handle style that you feel most comfortable with. Blade handles come in flared, anatomical and straight designs. Flared designs are wider at the bottom of the handle, anatomical designs are wider at the center to better fill your palm, and straight handles are uniform throughout. Anatomical designs favor players who hold the racket with the shake hands grip, while the other two are suited for either the shake hands or penhold grip.
Step 5
Choose rubber surfaces for the racket. Think about how you hit forehands and backhands. Because those strokes are likely different, it is best to select a different rubber for each side of the racket. Inverted rubber, also known as reverse rubber, is a diverse type used by both professional attackers and defenders. Short pimple rubber offers more speed but reduces your ability to spin the ball. Long pimple rubber counters and returns spin based upon what is received, while anti-spin rubber can effectively stop spin but cannot return it.
Tips and Warnings
- Table tennis rackets are rated based upon overall play style to make your decision easier.
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