There are two main ways to hold a ping pong paddle, each with its own characteristics and advantages:
1. Shakehand Grip
Basic position: Hold the paddle as if you are shaking hands with it. The handle of the paddle should rest comfortably in the V-shaped area between your thumb and index finger. Your thumb and index finger should form a gentle grip around the handle, with the thumb on one side and the index finger on the other.
Fingers' placement: The middle finger, ring finger, and little finger should be wrapped around the handle on the back side of the paddle. The middle finger usually takes on the main role of providing support and stability, and it can be extended slightly to increase the contact area with the paddle.
Advantages: This grip offers a wide range of motion, allowing for both powerful forehand and backhand shots. It is relatively easy to generate spin on the ball, especially for players who are proficient in both forehand and backhand techniques. It is also well-suited for attacking play, enabling quick and aggressive strokes.
2. Penhold Grip
Chinese penhold grip: Hold the paddle with the handle between the thumb and index finger, similar to holding a pen. The thumb is placed on one side of the blade, and the index finger is on the other side, with the tip of the index finger resting on the top edge of the blade. The middle finger, ring finger, and little finger are bent and placed on the back of the blade, providing support.
Japanese/Korean penhold grip: The basic concept is similar to the Chinese penhold grip, but the fingers' placement may vary slightly. In this grip, the thumb and index finger also hold the paddle like a pen, but the middle finger is often extended more along the side of the blade for better balance and control.
Advantages: The penhold grip is known for its excellent control of the ball, especially for short shots near the net. It allows for quick and precise placement of the ball, making it suitable for players who rely on finesse and deception in their play. The forehand attack in the penhold grip can be very powerful and fast, as the paddle can be whipped around with a lot of wrist action.
Ultimately, the choice of grip depends on personal preference, playing style, and the level of comfort and control a player feels with each grip. Many players experiment with both grips before settling on the one that suits them best.
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