why do ping pong players hit the table when serving
The main reasons for table tennis players to hit the tabletop when serving include the following:
To ease the mind and remove hand sweat: hitting the tabletop can help players ease their tension and remove sweat from the palms of their hands, preventing an unstable grip that can lead to a drop in the quality of the ball or a deviation in its trajectory.
Improve ball running and spin: By hitting the table, the touch and friction of the racket can be adjusted to ensure optimal spin and friction on the serve.
Mental conditioning: Mental conditioning is very important in high level play. Striking the table can help athletes focus, reduce stress and increase self-confidence. In addition, this action can be used as a ritual to help prepare the athlete mentally.
Technical adjustments: Hitting the table can help the athlete to check the condition of the table, ensure the accuracy of the serve, and adjust the feel of the serve to enhance the sensation in the hands.
Psychological tactics: For the server, hitting the table may be a psychological tactic to delay the serve, put psychological pressure on the opponent and disrupt his rhythm.
Habits and Traditions: This action has been gradually developed and widely spread over a long period of time and has become part of the table tennis culture. Many players unconsciously perform this action at critical moments. It is like a ritual that connects the past with the present and transmits the spirit and soul of table tennis.
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