Mastering the basic strokes in table tennis is essential for building a strong foundation in the game. Each stroke has its own purpose and application, allowing you to be both offensive and defensive during a match. Below are the fundamental strokes you should master as part of your table tennis game:

1. Forehand Drive

The forehand drive is one of the most versatile strokes and is used for both offense and defense. It allows you to return the ball with speed and spin while staying in control of the rally.

How to perform the forehand drive:

• Grip: Use a shakehand or penhold grip, holding the racket with a relaxed hand.
• Footwork: Position your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Step into the shot with your dominant foot (for right-handed players, this would be the right foot) as you swing.
• Swing: Begin by bringing the racket back, then swing forward in a smooth, controlled motion. Focus on brushing the ball with an upward motion to generate topspin. The follow-through should be straight, finishing near your shoulder.

Tips for Improvement:

• Keep your elbow relaxed but firm, using your whole body (hips and shoulders) to generate power.
• Aim for the middle of the ball for consistent returns.
• Keep the racket face slightly closed (angled downward) to control the topspin.

2. Backhand Drive

The backhand drive is similar to the forehand drive but executed on the backhand side of your body. This stroke is crucial for controlling the ball and maintaining rallies.

How to perform the backhand drive:

• Grip: Hold the racket in your normal grip, but with your thumb and index finger on the back of the handle.
• Footwork: Stand with your weight on the balls of your feet, knees bent. For added power, rotate your torso as you swing.
• Swing: Keep your racket angle relatively open, brushing the ball from low to high to generate topspin. Ensure a smooth motion with a short follow-through.

Tips for Improvement:

• Focus on hitting the ball cleanly in the center of the racket for accuracy.
• Use your wrist to adjust the angle of the racket and control the shot.
• Keep your swing compact and avoid overswinging to maintain control.

3. Push (Backspin)

The push stroke is a defensive stroke used to return serves or during rallies when you need to keep the ball low over the net. It generates backspin, making it harder for your opponent to attack.

How to perform the push stroke:

• Grip: Hold the racket in a comfortable but firm grip, with the racket face angled slightly downward.
• Footwork: Stand with your knees slightly bent, ready to react quickly.
• Swing: For backspin, gently brush under the ball with a soft, controlled motion. The swing should be short, with the racket following through in the direction of the shot.

Tips for Improvement:

• Make sure the ball clears the net and stays low, making it more difficult for your opponent to attack.
• Practice both short and long pushes to vary the depth of the return.
• Use your body to guide the stroke and maintain control.

4. Block

The block is a defensive stroke used to return fast, spin-heavy shots. It's important for returning powerful topspin or fast drives without adding spin to the ball.

How to perform the block:

• Grip: Use your regular grip, but keep your racket relaxed, allowing it to absorb the ball's energy.
• Footwork: Stay balanced with your weight slightly forward, ensuring that you're positioned to intercept the ball effectively.
• Swing: Hold the racket steady, letting the ball bounce off the racket. The racket face should be slightly closed (angled downward) to counter the topspin.

Tips for Improvement:

• Focus on maintaining a firm racket angle to prevent the ball from flying off uncontrollably.
• Use your body's natural movement to absorb the speed of the ball.
• Keep the ball low over the net to reduce the chances of a strong return from your opponent.

5. Loop (Topspin Drive)

The loop is a powerful attacking stroke that generates heavy topspin. This stroke allows you to add more control to aggressive shots, making the ball dip quickly after crossing the net.

How to perform the loop stroke:

• Grip: Hold the racket with a firm but relaxed grip, keeping the racket slightly tilted forward.
• Footwork: Step into the shot with your non-dominant foot forward. Position your body low and pivot your hips to generate power.
• Swing: Start the swing low and brush the ball with an upward motion, applying topspin. The follow-through should be high to finish above your shoulder.

Tips for Improvement:

• Focus on brushing the ball with your racket rather than hitting it flat.
• The loop should have both power and spin, so use your whole body (hips and legs) to generate force.
• Practice the loop against different types of spins to develop your ability to control the shot.

6. Drive (Flat Shot)

The drive is a fast, flat shot used for aggressive play. It's typically executed when you want to return the ball with speed rather than spin.

How to perform the drive:

• Grip: Hold the racket with a comfortable grip, ensuring that it's relaxed but stable.
• Footwork: Stay balanced with your weight on the balls of your feet. Position yourself to intercept the ball early.
• Swing: Swing the racket in a straight line, hitting the ball early with minimal backswing. Focus on hitting the ball flat for speed.

Tips for Improvement:

• Focus on timing and hitting the ball with power while keeping it on target.
• Avoid excessive wrist motion to maintain control over the shot.
• Practice different angles to add variety to your attacks.

Mastering the basic strokes in table tennis lays the groundwork for becoming a strong player. Whether you're using the forehand drive to attack, the backhand drive for control, or the push to defend, each stroke requires consistent practice. By refining your techniques, maintaining a good stance, and focusing on footwork, you'll improve both your consistency and versatility at the table.