How to Measure a Table Tennis Table Dimensions

Although when people think of ping pong they have the image of the universal table tennis table dimensions in mind, the variety of the tables that you can find on the market nowadays is wider.
Whether you need to purchase a tennis table cover, you build a ping pong table and are making the last adjustments or you are starting to take the game more seriously and want to participate in competitions, you need to know the table dimensions. In order to measure the tennis table all you need is the actual ping pong table and a measurement tape.

ping pong tables for sale

Here is how you can measure the size of your tennis table:

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1. When you are measuring the height of the table, simply extend the measurement tape from the floor where you placed the table to its corner. You need to repeat this for all four corners of the table and it is very important that the ping pong table is placed on a flat surface so that you do not get any interference when you want to find out your table tennis table dimensions.

2. If you are trying to find out if you have the correct width for your table, start from a corner and reach for the other one.

3. In order to measure the length you need to hook the end of the measuring tape at a corner and then extend it in a straight line to the parallel corner.

4. Besides the height, length and width another important aspect that you should check out is whether the playing surface is divided in two perfect halves. You can check if these table tennis table dimensions if you attach the measuring tape at one corner and afterwards run it down till the middle of the playing surface, which should be separated by the net.

However, if you consider that the classical tennis table dimensions are too big to be placed in any of the rooms you have in mind, you can opt for a smaller table. You can either order a table with the right dimensions for the room, build it yourself or make the adjustments on an already made table. What is important is that you have some space left around the table so you can move and take your shots properly.

When you choose the dimension of the tennis table, try to play a little on it before you buy it to check if you are feeling comfortable playing on that ping pong table.

If you are preparing for a competition, then you will also have to make sure that the space around the tennis table is large enough to allow you to take your shots properly without anything interfering.

How to Measure a Table Tennis Table Dimensions

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Table Tennis - Something About Table

Table Tennis resembles the game of tennis. The game, also known as Ping Pong, is a fast paced racket and ball game usually played indoors. The game, which can be played by two or four persons, has gained popularity as a recreational as well as competitive sport.

ping pong balls

The game, as the name imply, is played on a table having a length of nine feet (2.74 meters) and breadth of five feet (1.52 meters). A six inch high net placed breadth wise divides the table into two equal opposing halves. A white colored stripe runs length wise down the center. But this line is used only for doubles game. The surface of the table is usually made of a two inch thick particle board or ply board. The height of the table can be adjusted as per requirements.

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You must have seen the ball bouncing along with each shot delivered by the player. This is due to the high resilience of the board. In olden days, a simple table with a net at the middle was standard. But with the demands of the changing times, table tennis tables have also undergone many changes. Tables with differing designs have flooded the market. Search the market and you are sure to come across one which meets all your requirements.

Manufacturers have come up with tables with different features. Some tables come in two equal parts with a lateral coupling hole on one side and a lateral bar on the other. The bar is inserted in the coupling hole which effectively locks two pieces together. Packing and shipping is made easier by employing this method. Most high end models available are collapsible and portable.

Much care needs to be given to the base on which the table stands. A rickety and unstable table is a sure no-no. Manufacturers give much importance to strengthening the base or legs of the table. Addition of reinforcing bars and beams cuts out all possibilities of instability. Wood or aluminum is usually used to manufacture the bases. Arch shaped bases lend a level of novelty and also increase stability. However, the most preferred are the wheeled tables which can be moved away as per convenience. Locking devices prevent the table from moving while a game is on.

Tables with height adjustment features help children and disabled to play the game. Wheel chair ridden players can take heart as some models have been provided with specially designed leg assembly where legs are attached about forty centimeters underneath the table making entry and exit of wheelchairs easy, as per the requirement of the game. In standard tables, such maneuver is difficult. Colors of table tops also vary. However, blue is the most accepted one. High density chipboard lends high playability to the surface of the table. Reinforcement strips along the sides of the table surface increases its durability.

Along with functionality, killer looks and portability are the most sought after features in a table tennis table. Aesthetically designed tables add to the attractiveness of the game. If you are a table tennis enthusiast and is planning to buy a table, checking up the Internet sites of various manufacturers would provide you an insight into the features and prices of models available. This will make choosing easy.

Table Tennis - Something About Table

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Safe Practices For Table Tennis

One look at a ping-pong paddle and a lightweight table tennis ball may have you wondering just how anyone could sustain an injury while playing table tennis. Believe it or not, table tennis is a pretty intense game that requires a great deal of movement and coordination. It is not unheard of for people to experience strained muscles, or even impact injuries. You should fully understand all of the safety requirements before you attempt to play a full game of table tennis, and there are books and ping pong DVDs that can introduce you to several tips that will prepare you.

ping pong table top

First of all, you should warm up. As with any sport, you should stretch your muscles a bit to prepare for the movement that is ahead of you. It is also important that you get our heart rate elevated a bit and get the blood flowing, because an immediate jump into a fast-paced game could shock your system just a bit. There is not any contact, and the sport is low impact, so your warm up may seem minimal when compared to that of other sports, but you should never disregard the importance.

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If you find that you must sit out a game or two after your warm up, then it is important that you wear clothes that will keep you warm. If you have ever seen a cold rubber band snap when stretched, then you can better understand the things that can happen to your muscles if you allow them to become cold between periods of exertion. Ping pong DVDs can outline the muscles that you will use and the best way to keep them warm.

Once you have discovered the best ways to prepare, then you must consider the other elements of the game. However lightweight you think the ping-pong ball is, getting hit with one can still sting. It is a good idea to avoid walking through areas where games are in play. Keep your eyes on the arms holding paddles, too, because a smack in the face can leave a nasty bruise. Other safety measures, such as avoiding the corners of tables, leaving your water bottles safely away from the courts, and keeping an eye on your double partner, may seem like common sense. There are other things that you should always keep at the forefront of your mind, though, and ping pong DVDs will outline all of them, from rules for beginners all the way to the safest practices for tournament play.

Safe Practices For Table Tennis

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A Guide To Outdoor Table Tennis Cornilleau Equipment

Finding the right ping pong equipment for your needs is not easy. The various types of products use a lot of technical jargon to describe how they work, and the prices also vary quite greatly. Luckily, the information in this article on outdoor table tennis Cornilleau equipment may be able to help you find the right products for your needs.

ping pong table

Some of the equipment from this brand has been designed to be used outside. For example, the items in the Sport Outdoor series have all been designed for this purpose and should be able to satisfy the needs of the most demanding players. There are several products in this series, including the Sport Outdoor 200, 300M, and the 500M.

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The 200 retails at about 0, while the 300M is priced between 0 and 00. The 500M is the most expensive and is priced at around 00. All of these items are weather resistant and feature corrosion resistant steel. They also have a playback feature and a matte, anti-glare finish that should make it easier to play on bright days.

For people who can't afford to spend a lot of money, the Sport 100 may be worth considering. It typically retails at around 0 and features many of the qualities that demanding ping pong players require. For example, it is very durable and has a weather resistant surface. The steel should also last for quite some time and it is wheelchair friendly. The net's tension can be adjusted according to your needs.

If you are a very serious player or are planning on going pro, you may want to consider a more expensive item, like the Cornilleau Pro 510. This product usually sells for about 00 and is sturdy enough to be installed in parks and camps. It can be bolted down, has been made with galvanized steel, and the surface meets ITTF bounce standards. Additionally, the net is constructed from steel, so it will last.

In order to protect your investment, you should consider buying a Cornilleau table tennis cover. The prices of these covers range from around to 0, and they are constructed from high quality materials and coated with polyethylene, which should help protect your equipment from damage. Using a cover regularly will help prevent rusting, dirt buildup, and other types of damage.

Choosing the right outdoor table tennis Cornilleau equipment for your needs will help ensure that you have the best possible playing experience. Be sure to consider the different options before committing to a purchase and always keep your table covered when it is not in use.

A Guide To Outdoor Table Tennis Cornilleau Equipment

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Table Tennis History - The Evolution of Table Tennis in Europe

Needs to be General PA'd for KW stuffing in the RB - these are the exact same terms the author uses in the KW box.
The sport of table tennis has a long and storied history. It was most likely derived from a game known as "Royal Tennis" that was played in Europe during medieval times around the 12th century AD. In the 1880's a form of the game was frequently played by members of England's upper class as an after dinner social activity. Dinner tables would be turned into playing surfaces, with piles of books being used as the "net" and household items acting as rackets. In 1890, an indoor gaming set was created by David Foster and patented in England. It included table versions of tennis, cricket, and football. In 1891, John Jacques of London released a game called "Gossima", a game that included paddles, a web-wrapped cork ball, and a net.

ping pong paddles

The discovery of hollow celluloid balls in England in 1900 by James Gibb ushered in a new era in the tabletop sport's history. This new type of ball was reported to be the catalyst for the name "Ping Pong" because of the sound it made when it came into contact with the drum paddles in use at the time. In 1901 the name "Ping Pong" was registered as a trade name in England. Popularity of the game was high during this time. The Table Tennis Association and the Ping Pong Association were both formed in England in December of 1901.

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As game competition increased, players began to experiment with materials and equipment trying to make the game faster and more entertaining. E.C. Goode from England is credited with placing pebbled rubber on his blade in 1902, the result was more spin on the ball. This small change had the consequence of speeding game-play dramatically. This discovery was the inspiration for the pimpled rubber racket, which was the primary type of table tennis racket used until 1952.

After a few years of intense popularity, the game began to fade away in the vast majority of Europe. A few clusters of die-hard fans remained intact in Eastern Europe. After more than a decade long decline a revival took place in the early 1920's. During this time the first set of standardized laws for the game were established in England. The International Table Tennis Federation was formed in Berlin in1926 with representatives from Germany, Hungary, England, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, India, Sweden, and Wales as founding members. The ITTF adopted England's standardized laws for international play. The first international tournament was held in 1926 in Berlin. The ITTF continues to be the governing body of the sport today.

The 1920's through the 1950's are known as the Classic Hard Bat Era. This was a time of European Dominance. From 1926 through 1931 Maria Mednyanszky from Hungary was the World Champion for five consecutive years. From 1930 through 1935 Victor Barna of Hungary was the World Champion five times, losing only once, in 1931 to his countryman Miklos Szabadoz. European players dominated the field until 1952 when Jiroji Satoh of Japan, with his sponge-covered racket, became the first non-European player to win a championship. In 1958 the first European Championships were held in Budapest Hungary. The USSR made their first appearance at an international tournament during this time.

The year 1971 started a decade-long reign for Swedish players and the beginning of the end of European Dominance. This era produced such Swedish greats as Stellan Bengtsson, Jan-Ove Waldner, Jörgen Persson, and Peter Karlsson, to name a few. In 1977, the ITTF received official recognition by the International Olympic Committee, enabling them to pursue adding the tabletop sport to the Olympic Program. The ITTF chose not to do so at the time. It would be another eleven years before the game debuted as an Olympic Sport. As it continued to gain popularity around the globe, China began to dominate international competitions and stole the championship reigns from their European counterparts. Their reign at the top of the world rankings has remained consistent to this day.

Table Tennis History - The Evolution of Table Tennis in Europe

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The Origin and Evolution of Table Tennis

Much like its bigger version, table tennis is played with the same basic rules as Tennis. If you are a sports buff and has devoted quite a number of hours in front of the boob tube watching sports channels, its highly likely that you have watched a couple of games of table tennis.

ping pong balls

Played in a wooden table, usually green like lawn tennis, table tennis or ping pong as what some people refer to it based on the sound the ball makes as it bounces, utilizes wooden paddles with rubber surfaces and a plastic ball instead of the big rackets and the furry green ball used in Tennis.

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Table tennis has become very popular, not only because it is easy to learn how to play it and it is extremely fun, but also because it can easily be played even with just enough space to handle the table. It doesn't require big courts like tennis and most garages can be setup with a table for ping pong.

Also, you don't need to buy very fancy and expensive equipment just to have a table tennis set. It is only the table that requires some high cost but compared to other sports, the cost is not much. Then, all you would need is the paddle, a set of balls and you're good to go.

The History of Table Tennis

Table Tennis first started out in the 1880's when affluent Victorians in England where looking for a sport that they can play indoors. Taking the cue from the popular Tennis, this young men utilized a table and used make shift paddles from the box lids of cigarette boxes and an improvised ball made out of strings or a cork.

Enter the 1900's. With the game's popularity growing, manufacturers of table tennis equipment have made vast improvements out of the crude ones first used and started the manufacture of these new equipments for sale. The paddles known made use of custom shaped wood and rubbers where attached to make the game slower. The balls were known manufactured from celluloid making them rounder and bounce better.

With the commerciality of the game and its equipments, more and more people where able to discover and enjoy the game. In 1902, table tennis enthusiasts were able to compete in the first ever tournament, and by 1921, the Table Tennis Association was inaugurated in England and barely ten years after the first ever World Championships was played in England as well.

With the competitions, the commercialization and the legitimacy brought about by the establishment of an official organization, table tennis has become a worldwide phenomenon that is being enjoyed by all countries.

With many innovations and developments in the equipment used and the affordability of the game, many homes have their own table tennis sets were many people can enjoy the game. Plus, with its surging popularity and the great number of people playing table tennis, the game was recognized by the Olympic committee and was soon included in the world wide competition in 1988.

Over the years, many rules have been added, changed and removed to make the game more exciting. This changes has made table tennis very competitive and a favorite for many people today and probably in the years to come as well.

The Origin and Evolution of Table Tennis

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Learning Spin With Table Tennis Videos

If you want to pick up new skills to improve your ping pong game, there are many resources available. From instructional DVDs, to websites featuring basic instructions, to table tennis videos teaching ways to be better than ever, you can easily find ways to improve your game. Whether you want to learn a drop shot, improve your serve, or learn how to hit with topspin, it's easy to pick up a variety of new skills that will make your opponent scramble for the ball. With videos available all over the internet, you can gain easy access to tips, techniques, and the best of the pros in the game. When it comes to learning how to add spin to the ball, it's easy enough to find tips. Spin is a great way to enhance your game and throw off your opponent. Table tennis videos can show anyone the best way to learn the various types of spin that will enhance your game.

ping pong table top

Backspin will add subtle lift to the ball and let it drop more suddenly, making it more difficult for the opponent to predict the trajectory of the ball. This type of spin is regarded as a defensive alternative and is an effective way to change the strategy of the game. Picking up this skill isn't difficult and can be important to your success in the game. Topspin is a crucial type of spin that is important to any phase of the game and all skill sets. It's harder to learn than some other strokes, but can be useful in creating a winning strategy. Table tennis videos often feature how-to instructions to help you perform this stroke.

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Sidespin is another common stroke and it's usually used during service. This spin causes the ball to spin on a vertical axis, rather than horizontal like other types of spin. Cork spin is also used in service, but can be added to a lob at the professional level. Also referred to as the drill-spin, it causes the ball to dart to the right or left after bouncing. This can be a useful strategy in confusing the opponent. Table tennis videos are great ways to pick up on the cork spin. No matter what you might want to learn, it's easy enough to gain access to any information when it comes to this fun and fast-paced sport. Because it's played throughout the world, players of all skill levels and ages enjoy ping pong.

Learning Spin With Table Tennis Videos

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Cheap Table Tennis Table: Price Is Relative and Durability Is Key

How do you define a cheap table tennis table? Is it based solely on the price range among brand names? A cheap table for you may not be cheap to somebody else. A branded professional table which you bought for ,600, inclusive of a 30% discount and free shipping may be cheap from your perspective. For an ordinary table tennis sport enthusiast, that amount will be quite expensive for him. It is difficult to define in specifics the meaning of cheap equipment because the subject is relative.

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It is safe to say that a cheap table tennis table is one which is durable, sturdy, safe, enjoyable, and always ready to serve and be with you for many years. In your journey to become an excellent ping pong hobbyist, player or motivator to yourself, your family and friends in promoting the sport, your table tennis table is always there at your side. In this case, you can rightfully and truthfully claim that it is cheap because the short and long term tangible and intangible benefits you get far outweigh your investment. On the other hand, how can you claim honestly that you got a good deal when you were able to bargain a used professional model worth 00 for only 0 when you use it only occasionally? If you will just store it in your garage and basement and allow it to warp, it is not a cheap buy.

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From a simple point of view, one example of a good deal is when you are able to buy a branded model of a table tennis table at the lowest price and with some extras after canvassing several stores selling the same brand and model, you can say that you bought it cheaply. Another example is when you participate in an online auction for a table tennis table owned by a former world champion, you can still claim that it is cheap compared to its future worth as a collector's item even if you paid several thousand dollars for it. Another example from a collector's item perspective is if you were able to buy one which was used to be owned by a popular Hollywood celebrity. Based on the premise of relativity, there are lots of illustrations to validate this point.

However, from an average person's point of view, a cheap buy is always based on your budget and what type of equipment it is going to be. Would you prefer an outdoor or indoor table for recreation or for training? Are you planning to buy a beginner's recreational model or a professional brand? Would you be open to a used one or a conversion table top to start with? The motive, taste, goals, preferences and budget play the key roles in your project. How often do you intend to use the ping pong table? One thing for sure is that it is not only the price or acquisition cost which determines whether or not the table tennis table you bought is relatively cheap.

In making a major decision to invest in a durable but reasonably priced ping pong table and its accessories, plan it out carefully. Have a conference with your family and get their input and support behind you. The web is still the most convenient place to go where you can source out a branded but reasonably priced ping pong table model which suits your budget and requirements. Remember that cheap is relative and price is not the whole issue. Look instead for durability, style and performance track record. On your part, don't overlook the importance of TLC (tender loving care) if you want your cheap table tennis table to last a long time!

Cheap Table Tennis Table: Price Is Relative and Durability Is Key

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Get Better at Ping Pong With Training and Table Tennis Videos

If you want to improve your table tennis skills, it takes more than just wishing for it to happen. Even playing the way that you are right now might not be enough. If you have dreams of beating every opponent that you find, perhaps even a dream of playing in the Olympics or playing as a pro, you need to make sure that your training is up to par. How dedicated are you to learning the sport, and how much time are you willing to spend?

ping pong rackets

Those who want to get better need to make sure that they have the time to play the game just about every day. Watch table tennis videos that have the pros playing their best games. You might be surprised at how much you can pick up from these game videos.

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Of course, it takes more than just playing the game to improve significantly. The following training tips can help you bring your game to a new level.

Tip #1 - Exercise

Most people do not think that you need to be athletic to play table tennis. However, you are going to want to get in some cardio to improve your stamina. When you start getting into some fast-paced games, having a body that is able to keep up with the action is very important.

Tip #2 - Videos

One of the best ways to learn more skills is to see them performed by professionals. A great way to see the pros in action is to watch table tennis videos. You can find videos that can teach you all of the important skills that you need to learn.

Tip #3 - Losing

How can losing help anyone learn? You need to learn to lose for a couple of reasons. The first is for sportsmanship. If you have been playing against your friends, and if you are better than they are, you probably do not lose very often. You need to play against better opponents who are able to beat you. This will help you to learn the fact of life that someone out there is always better than you are and everyone needs this humbling experience.

You should consider losing a learning experience. When you lose, you should go over the game in your head and see why you lost. This will give you a list of skills that you need to improve.

Get Better at Ping Pong With Training and Table Tennis Videos

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Used Table Tennis Table: Nothing Wrong If You Know How to Buy a Good One

If you want to introduce your family to the exciting and fun world of ping pong, there is nothing wrong if you decide to purchase a used table tennis table. Your priority is to look for good quality, pre-owned equipment, preferably, a professional type if your funds can support it.

ping pong table cover

The best places to look for it are your local sports stores, table tennis clubs and ping pong associations. There you can ask for anyone selling their table or for any leads. Another way is to let your circle of family and friends know that you are in the market for it. Word of mouth news will circulate around and who knows, there may be a neighbor who plans to move out and dispose of their old ping pong table to buy a new one. The other sources are newspaper classified ads, the yellow pages and online manufacturer's websites such as Amazon.com, eBay.com, Craigslist and Nextag. You just search for used table tennis tables under this category and you will be having many options.

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In buying a used one, it is important that you are in a position to know if the price of the ping pong table being offered is reasonable in the condition that it is in. Usually, the deal is on an "As Is, Where Is" basis. First of all, you do not know the wear and tear background of the item. You just have to believe or rely on the information given to you when you inspect and ask some questions. In online auctions, this may not be possible. It is only the price and the photo or video that you have to base your interest in making a counter-offer.

A sample used table being sold online is a Butterfly T2625SU Centrefold 25 Sky Rollaway Table Tennis Table (Tournament Used) for $ 2000-35% discount or 00 free shipping.

Another sample online ad: "Stiga Elite Roller Ping Pong table for sale. New, these tables sell for around 0. A used one in good shape, which this one is, sells for 0-0. We're asking 0 for ours. I've attached a picture of the table in the flat play position. It also folds up for practicing alone. If you're interested in purchasing, you will need to come to our house with a truck."

How can you know if the price being offered is fair? To that question, if would be easy if you are aware of the year model and brand. If you get info from the manufacturer the brand new price of such model, it would be easy to calculate the depreciation percentage. Typically, a seller who bought his ping pong table two years ago for ,000 will ran an ad and sells it for $ 500. If you make a counter offer for let's say $ 300 and it is accepted, you can conclude that you have a good deal. For the discount of $ 200, you can budget it for enhancement or improvement of the table.

In cases where it is possible for you to inspect the item, it would be better if you can bring along someone who has the technical expertise to examine and assess the table. Part of the evaluation process is to the test the table by playing with your friend. You can do some ball bounce checks. Find out if the ping pong ball bounces according to the international standard. Try a variety of spin shots.

Check the smoothness of the surface quality and watch out for any warping or damage. Inspect the levelers if any and the condition of the wheels and the brake mechanism. See how it folds and check for other features such as playback. Have some tool and measuring tape handy to check the measurements and level. Feel also how stable and secure it is. This is the advantage of a visual inspection. If the price is negotiable, then you can go ahead and negotiate if you discern that the table can still be useful for many years. Be fair with your vendor. Don't haggle too much if the price and table's condition are okay.

Used Table Tennis Table: Nothing Wrong If You Know How to Buy a Good One

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Top Table Tennis Players - Mark Hazinski and Michael Landers

Mark Hazinski has been playing table tennis since he was nine years old. He was introduced to the sport when his elementary school principal offered an after school program. Mark's aptitude for the sport was quickly apparent and his love of the game was instantaneous. On a whim he decided to attend a tournament he heard about in passing. At the tournament he heard about an offer for a free lesson with Coach Viktor Tolkachev. He signed up, and the rest is history. He began training at the South Bend Table Tennis Club under Coach Viktor Tolkachev. Mark progressed steadily under his direction until Tolkachev left the club to return to his homeland when Mark was eleven. Dan Seemiller, a 5-time U.S. Men's Singles Champion, took over coaching duties at the club and Mark flourished. He was having a great time, but he wasn't simply training to be training. Mark had a goal. He wanted to make it to the 2004 Olympic games in Athens. His parents had faith in his abilities and removed Mark from school and began a home-school program so that Mark could devote more time to training. He began training five days each week.

ping pong table tops for pool tables

At the age of fifteen he earned a spot on the U.S. Men's National Team and was the youngest player to ever do so. He has trained in Sweden, Germany, China, and Japan. His dedication and efforts have resulted in eight Junior Olympian Gold medals, five under-22 U.S. Singles Championships, two Men's U.S. Doubles Championships, a U.S. Mixed Doubles Championship, and numerous collegiate national championships. In 2003 he was named as the USATT player of the year and in 2004 he achieved his dream of competing in the Olympic Games. He was also a member of the 2007 U.S. Pan American Games team.

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Although he narrowly missed a spot on the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team, Mark has not given up on becoming a two-time Olympian. Earning a spot on the 2010 U.S. National Team, his fourth national team, is another step towards making it to the 2012 Olympic Games.

In another part of the country, fifteen-year-old Michael Landers is following a path similar to that of Mark Hazinski. Like Hazinski, Michael has been playing table tennis since he was a young boy. Born in Mineola, New York on August 16, 1994, Michael first played the game as a toddler. His family has photographs of Michael at the age of two, paddle in hand, standing on a couch to reach the table, ready to play. The game was a hobby for the young Michael until a twist of fate, in the form of a broken arm, prevented him from participating in other sports such as tennis, baseball, and soccer. Unable to attend a summer sports camp due to the injury, his family searched for activities to help their nine year old son stay active. They found a table tennis club in Queens and Michael began taking lessons from Hui Yuan Liu, a National Coach. He was playing in tournaments in four months. Before a year had passed he earned first place in under-12 doubles and second place in singles at the 2005 Junior Olympics. His natural abilities apparent, he chose to stop participating in other sports and began to focus on training for table tennis competitions.

Michael racked up wins including the 2008 Canada Cup Open Doubles Championship, 2008 Eastern Open U-16 Boys Championship, and 2009 Chinatown U-2400 Champion. In 2009, Michael became the youngest athlete to win the U.S. National Men's Singles Championship. His success to date has earned him a spot on the 2010 U.S. Nationals Team and has aroused talk of the possibility that he could make the U.S. Team for the 2012 Olympic Games in London. With all the attention, Michael stays humble and focused on making table tennis more popular in the United States. When he is not training or attending school, he spends time writing letters to athletic companies, asking them to support the game. He knows that marketing departments might show more interest in promoting the sport since he is a young kid competing against grown men. He is wise enough to use what works to achieve success for himself and for the sport.

Top Table Tennis Players - Mark Hazinski and Michael Landers

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Table Tennis Boards: Learn About the Features of Outdoor and Indoor Models

Table tennis, otherwise known as ping pong, is a favorite household sport all over the world. It is already an Olympic sport since 1988 and the best players come mostly from Sweden and China. Its popularity keeps on growing because the sport is easy to learn, fun and exciting. What is nice about with this game is it can be played b the entire family during weekend or as often as they can. It becomes an alternative form of competitive and recreational exercise and an opportunity for the family to bond together in leisure and enjoyment.

ping pong net

If you are planning to purchase a table tennis for your family, you need to consider whether you will use it for indoor or outdoor. Table tennis boards come in many different styles and designs. There are outdoor and indoor tennis tables. Their price ranges vary depending on the brand, quality of the table and features.

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Choosing the right one will depend on your purpose. If it is for outdoor use, the board needs to be more durable and easy to transport and store. Outdoor ping pong tables are made usually of aluminum as outer layer and a wooden inner core. They are UV and moisture resistant for longevity. You can find a model which has a crafted steel body and a melanine laminated top for strong heat, light and rain resistance. It has a latch system that has a safe security triangle aid mechanism, usually a dual kind. When it comes to the undercarriage, you can opt for a rollaway type possibly with a playback feature so that you can even practice and play by yourself. To protect the table board, you have to purchase a durable nylon cover.

There are also many versions of indoor table with unique and innovative designs. You can select an indoor favorite model with a 19mm special chipboard top and gray non-glare playing surface. It has a stable fixed net which is adjustable. You can easily fold it for safe handling and storage. It can also be transported with its four (4) double rotatable and rubber cushioned wheels

The usual dimension of the table board is 2.74 cm (9 ft) long, 1.525 m (5 ft) wide and 76 cm (30 inch) high. It can be 19mm thick up to the official 25 mm thickness. There are tables with a playing surface divided into halves for easy storage. The acceptable table surface approved by the ITTF is either green or blue. The middle net used is 15.25 cm (6 inch) high and is sometimes permanently fixed to the table even if you fold it.

There are some ping pong table models with an innovative electronic scoring feature. Its automatic serve indicators monitor scoring of points and identify the turn of the server. It has a smooth painted top coating to create pro style ball spin. Its steel table aprons provide stability to the flat surface. For safety and storage features, it has a thick tubular steel frame with auto folding legs. This model also has a playback fold up and comes complete with the electronic scorer, net, post set and official game rules.

Popular brands are Stiga, Butterfly, Kettler, Prince, Cormilleau, Harvard, Joola and many others. Depending on your desired model and allocated price range, which can be as low as $ 300 up to ,000 upwards, you have many options to choose from a variety of brands of table tennis boards. With sufficient knowledge and information about the ping pong game, if you have the resources, you will most likely decide to invest in a longer lasting professional type if you want to fully enjoy the sport.

Table Tennis Boards: Learn About the Features of Outdoor and Indoor Models

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Did You Know? Interesting Facts About the History of Table Tennis

With humble roots beginning in the 12th century, table tennis has gone through tremendous changes, in both equipment and in official rule guidelines, evolving into one of the most popular competitive sporting games played in several different countries.

ping pong net

Around 1880, British soldiers stationed abroad would often play "Royal Tennis", using cigar lids as paddles, and corks or webbed wrapped devices as a table tennis ball. The exciting game became very popular with the soldiers since the game was a quick and highly mobile entertainment vehicle to pass idle time.

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In the Victorian Era, upper class women and men enthusiastically played table tennis, better known as "Wiff-Waff" or "Gossima", as an indoor recreational game. Using a large surface as a table, the opponents would hit rounded objects, sometimes a golf ball or ball made from string, with another book, passing the "ball" over a net erected out of additional propped up books. "Wiff-Waff" became extremely popular and newly manufactured materials allowed for the reengineering of the first official paddle made out simple framing material with parchment paper stretched end to end. Soon after, a celluloid ball was introduced to the game and, and a creative J. Jaques & Sons officially deemed the game "Ping Pong". Around 1901, Jaques & Sons sold the copyrighted the "Ping Pong" game name to the ever so popular United States game manufacturer, Parker Brothers. Hoping to increase popularity in the United States, Parker Brothers began marketing Ping Pong sets complete with paddles, balls, and nets.

Searching for a way to add spin to the ping-pong ball, Englishman E.C. Goode redesigned the ping-pong paddle in 1902. His designed the paddle out of thin wood and he covered the wood with a pebbled rubber. Until 1952, his ingenious design dominated Ping Pong paddle sales around the world.

With the game becoming popular and increase demand for regulations and serious competition, two organizations, "The Ping Pong Association" in the United States and "The Table Tennis Association" in England, were formed in 1903. Popularity and desire to compete on an international level called for the creation of a new organization to regulate international Ping Pong rules and competition. In 1926, a meeting between several countries interested in participating took place in Berlin and The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) officially formed, holding the first official World Championship competition in London in 1927. Over the years, the ITTF has changed the table tennis surface many times, lowered the net, and introduced standardized paddle rules for competition.

Players from Hungary began fiercely competing in ITTF competitions and held the World Championship Women's Singles championship from 1926-1931 and help the Men's Singles Championship from 1930-1935.

Today, many countries compete in Championship Table Tennis games around the world. Although the equipment has changed over the years, the enthusiasm, popularity, and serious competition have never truly wavered. For a game to start so humbly as a simply way to pass time, to a highly competitive Olympic Sport game, Table Tennis has truly arose from little to become a passionate game played on the International level.

Did You Know? Interesting Facts About the History of Table Tennis

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How to Play Table Tennis

It's cold, and it's snowing, and you can't get outside to do any of the things you enjoy. What's a sport that you can play all year round, regardless of rain, shine, or snow? Table tennis! It's easy to learn and incredibly fun. Here are the basic facts about this exciting and engaging game.

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First off, you should know the point scale. To win a game, you have to score eleven points before your opponent does. If the game is tied at 10 points each, that's called a deuce and the first person who snags the lead by two points wins.

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Now that you know what to do, you can get started! Although in a big-time table tennis match, players often toss a coin to decide who will serve first. If you're just hitting around in the den, it can be less formal.

When you're just learning how to play table tennis, serving can be difficult. Don't worry, it gets easier with practice. Simply remain standing behind your side of the table, hold the ball in the hand without the racquet, and toss it in the air. When it falls, tap it with the paddle, just enough so that it gets over net. If it bounces more than once before the other player hits it, you'll get a point. Don't let it touch the net and then hit your opponent's side because then you'll have to serve it again. If it hits the net and then bounces back to your side, the other player gets the point. While you're playing, remember not to let the ball hit your side more than once because that's a point in favor of your opponent.

Serving duties will alternate back and between players. Once someone scores a point, the person who did not serve last time will serve. You'll keep getting points as long as you hit the ball longer than the other player does. They'll score if they hit it longer than you do, if you make a poor serve, or if you let it bounce more than once on your side of the net.

A game ends when someone's point total reaches eleven. After each game, players switch sides and the person who did not serve first at the beginning of the last game will serve. To turn these little games into a match, simply play three to seven games. Ready, play!

How to Play Table Tennis

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Table Tennis Secrets - The Forehand - Be a Ping Pong Hero

In this article, you'll discover that developing a consistent forehand is one of the secrets to separating yourself from your opponent.

ping pong balls

Although there are various methods to hitting forehands, a common technique is to hold the racket with your palm behind the ping pong paddle and on the grip. Some players place their index finger behind the table tennis racket head for added stability and to assist in racket head speed when creating spin.

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Although many players are tempted to hit big and go for winners, the best plan when developing your ping pong skills is to develop a game and strategy based on consistency. Like other racket sports, the best foundation is one based on control and consistency rather than a killer shot. Once you have established a strong foundation based on consistent and solid table tennis technique, you can then move on to developing a killer weapon. The most common ping pong weapon is the forehand.

The following are 3 keys to unleashing the full potential of a killer table tennis forehand:

1. It's all in the feet. Believe it or not, the first secret has nothing to do with your arm, upper body, or racket holding technique. Good footwork is often overlooked and underestimated. Watch any good player, and you'll see active feet, short sidesteps for recovery after a wide shot so that you continually face your opponent, and a ready position which allows the player to wait on their toes which aids in quick reaction time.

2. Learn Spin. Without spin, it won't go in. Although this may not always hold true, you'll find that shots without spin have less control. It is to your advantage to learn how to hit topspin on your strokes. Hitting topspin on your shots allows you to go for your shots more. Why? When you hit with topspin, the ping pong ball dips towards the end of its flight decreasing long and wide shots. The result is more control. To hit a topspin shot, you'll need to hit the ball from low to high and brush up on the back side of the ball with your ping pong paddle. With practice, you'll soon see dramatic results from adding topspin to your shot.

3. Do Not Recover to the middle of the table. What strange advice you say! Most players have better forehands than backhands. Additionally, most players move better to their forehand side. What can we do with this information? How 'bout using it to our advantage. Instead of recovering to the middle of the ping pong table after hitting a forehand or backhand, try recovering slightly left of center table (lefties try recovering slightly right of center table). By recovering off center, you'll be protecting your backhand and you should see more balls come to your right side which is your stronger forehand shot.

With these great tips in mind and a determined spirit, you're sure to improve. Although these tips may not be for everyone, give them a try. You may find a secret to help you develop that killer table tennis forehand!

Table Tennis Secrets - The Forehand - Be a Ping Pong Hero

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American Table Tennis - How "Ping Pong Diplomacy" Put American Table Tennis on the World Map

Although not as celebrated or quite as popular as other pro-sports in the world today, American Table Tennis has been around for longer than you think. For those who were lucky enough to have been around at the time, a curious but important cultural event transpired almost four decades ago in the land where table tennis is perhaps more revered and respected than any other sport: Japan. Most people who know about this part in America's rich history refer to it as "Ping Pong Diplomacy" when relations between the two world superpowers were not as open as they are today. 

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It was during a visit to Japan in 1971 by the United States Table Tennis team where Glenn Cowan, a flamboyant but beautifully gifted player trained a little too long and just happened to miss the team bus. A Japanese official had come by and informed Cowan and his Japanese sparring partner that their time was up; the training facility was to be closed for the evening.

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While trying frantically to locate the rest of his team members in a sea of unfamiliar faces, a player aboard the Chinese team bus waived Cowan over and told him to get on their bus instead.   As the bus travelled along, the players from opposite sides of the world struck up a conversation with the aid of a translator. Zhuang Zedong, a member of the Chinese squad realized the opportunity for relationship building and chose diplomacy over heavily ingrained cultural responsibilities. 

Coming forward towards Cowan, Zhuang Zedong tapped him lightly upon the shoulders and proceeded to present him with a beautiful silk-screen portrait of the Huangshan Mountains. Cowan immediately understood and read the situation correctly by trying to find something of equal value in return, all he could muster up after rifling desperately through his entire gym bag's worth of belongings was an old comb definitely unworthy of the magnitude of the situation.

Instead of offering a sub-par gift, Cowan left the Chinese team bus and was immediately greeted by the press and hoards of photographers because it's not everyday you see an American born table tennis player exiting a Team China bus with a smile on his face and a gift firmly in hand. He would have to wait for another opportune time to return the favour. 

Glen Cowan would get his chance eventually and presented Zhuang Zedong with a patriotic American t-shirt with the words "Let it Be" emblazoned on the front in clear red, white, and blue lettering. Suffice it to say that the cultural tensions experienced during the 1960's and throughout the 1970's between these two countries were well chronicled in history books, but instead of going with the flow, these two particular athletes saw past the restrictions and limitations that society has a tendency of placing upon our humble shoulders and took the opportunity to see what cooperation and camaraderie can really look like. This might not have been possible with any other sport. 

So the next time anyone happens to ask you what American Table Tennis is really about, let them know about this "Ping Pong Diplomacy" between the U.S. and Japan.

American Table Tennis - How "Ping Pong Diplomacy" Put American Table Tennis on the World Map

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Table Tennis Conversion Top - A Smart Alternative to Ping Pong Tables

If you already have snooker or billiards table then why would you want to invest in a ping pong table. It's not only an additional expenditure but will also take up a lot of space. If you live in a home which can only accommodate one recreational game table and you already have one, then it would be a waste of money and space to buy a ping pong table.

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Instead you could buy a table tennis conversion top. This is a superb innovation from the manufacturers to help people save space as well as money. These conversion tops can fit easily on the surface of a billiard or snooker table which converts the playing surface into a ping pong table surface.

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This is great for families who have limited space in the recreation room, backyard, basement or garage but want to have more than one sport to play with. Before buying a conversion top you must consider the size of your table. The height and the length play a major part while buying a table tennis conversion top.

Usually a snooker table is much bigger in size and length as compared to a table tennis top. So this could be a bit of a problem if you have a conversion top for ping pong placed on a snooker table. With a regular snooker table being 11 x 5 ft and 10 inches while a ping pong table is 9 x 5, you will find that there is an extra foot of snooker table protruding on both sides. This may cause you problems while playing short balls.

More over the recommended height of a snooker table is between 33 1/2 to 34 1/2 inches while that of a table tennis table is 30 inches. It's quite difficult to play on a much higher surface. So if you have a snooker table, it's much better to get a small sized, foldable ping pong table instead of a table tennis conversion top. Unless you don't mind playing ping pong with a bit of compromise.

But if you have a billiard table, it makes much more sense to buy a conversion table tennis top as billiard tables are much smaller in size and shorter in length, pretty much close to a table tennis table.

Once you have the conversion top on, you need to check the bounce of the ball. Check if the ball bounces to correct height of 23cm when dropped from 30cm height. This will give you an idea if the conversion top is a perfect match on your billiard table.

A table tennis conversion top is one of the most economical and sensible investment for any home recreation room to give loads of entertainment to you and your family.

Table Tennis Conversion Top - A Smart Alternative to Ping Pong Tables

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The Thickness and Quality of Table Tennis Table Tops Affect the Dynamism of Technical Spin Shots

Many experts believe that the quality and thickness of your table tennis table top will determine the dynamism of the ball bounce and the creation of various technical spin shots by the players of the game of ping pong. If you are serious to develop your skills in this sport, it is vital that you are aware of how the construction of table top can affect its performance.

ping pong paddles

In your choice of a perfect table top, you have to consider factors such as the aesthetic beauty of the design, color and smoothness of the surface. Its thickness, configuration and materials used are the features that create a good impression with the buyer. A sleek laminated playing surface can develop awesome spin drives that will amaze the player and observers. A thicker top improves the quality of the ping pong table top.

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The official color in international competitions approved by the International Table Tennis Federation is either blue or green. These colors were given approval after a period of experimentation to determine the best kind for television audience. Color plays an important role in providing harmony or contrast to the color of the surrounding area like the flooring, walls and background. It can be a distraction or attraction.

Table thickness of 25mm provides the best quality of playing spins and ball bounce because of its more solid feature. The support under the top should be even because it has an effect also on the performance of the bounce quality of a table. Being warp resistant is also a characteristic of a properly laminated table top. Warping can affect the performance of the ball bounce on the table. It can also develop cracks due to moisture if not properly constructed or laminated. Official material for tournaments is a wooden top. Many manufacturers have table tops of plywood, particle board, aluminum metal, concrete or fiberglass. Some tops have 15mm up to 19 mm thickness which is less expensive and ideal for beginners but they do not produce a good ball bounce.

How about a conversion table top? If you want versatility and have a pool table around your place, you can purchase a table tennis conversion table top kit. You can just place the padded foam backing on top of the pool table and you can begin to play ping pong. It has a regulation size of 9' x 5' table top with ½ thickness play surface. It is easy to install with a four piece hinged design. The material is easy to fold for storage and is available in green or blue. The kit includes the rails, nets set, a two player racket set and three ping pong balls. You just have to monitor the proper installation and storage after your game to keep its quality and performance in excellent condition.

You can purchase your table tennis table tops from online manufacturers, local table tennis club or sports shops. If you go online, you can visit the websites of reputable table tennis manufacturers such as Adidas, Bribar, Cornilleau, Donic, Dunlop, Double Happiness, Halex, Jaques, Juic, Kalahari, Sportscraft, TSP, Yasaka, Killerspin, Marquis, Optima, Prince, Robbins, Tibhar, Lynx and others. Study and compare their products and prices as well as their incentive offers and have your order of table top and other accessories delivered to your door for free.

The Thickness and Quality of Table Tennis Table Tops Affect the Dynamism of Technical Spin Shots

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Tips For Table Tennis Beginners

Table tennis is an easy game to get into. You don't need to be particularly fit to play, and there's very little specialized equipment required, so you can get started quickly and easily. Thanks to falling prices, many people are getting table tennis tables for their homes - and even if space is at a premium, many tables fold up for easy storage, so it's practical, too. To become a really good player, it does take a bit of skill and practice. Here are a few tips for table tennis beginners.

ping pong net

The first and simplest tip is to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. This may not seem important, but agility is an important element, and you need to be able to move your arms and legs freely. Having said that, it's a good idea to tuck loose shirt-tails away - you don't want to get clothing caught on the table while you're playing.

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Work on your serve. This is something that you can practice on your own, if necessary; just move the table up against a wall, so you don't have to walk to retrieve balls, and get to practicing. Try to get plenty of variation into the serve, aiming for different areas of the table, keeping the ball low, and trying to introduce some slice and spin into your serves. It may sound difficult, but after a bit of time practicing, you'll find that your serve becomes a useful weapon.

Generally, in table tennis it's often the aggressive players who win games. A lot of people, especially beginners, play cautiously, concentrating on getting the ball over the net, but not really thinking about what to do next. As your skill at returning the ball increases - and it will - try to mix up your shots, sending your opponent wide of the table by aiming for the sides and then hitting your next shot to the opposite side of the table, or playing a fast, low shot followed by a short one. Even if you don't win the point, you'll still have some fun watching them huff and puff!

Finally, learn to use your forehand. Once you have mastered this shot, applying topspin to the ball as you strike it, you'll find that you can hit the ball with fearsome speed and power quite easily. Watching your opponent scampering after a well-hit shot is one of the joys of table tennis!

Tips For Table Tennis Beginners

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Protect Your Ping Pong Table With a Table Tennis Cover

If you are a serious ping pong player then you would know how expensive a table tennis table is. If you own one then it's quite natural for you to protect it; especially if you have children around. Most ping pong table surfaces are made of wood. But you also get them in metal such as aluminum and some of them have laminated construction.

ping pong paddles

If you plan on keeping your ping pong table outdoors then it makes all the more sense to protect it. You need to protect it with a table tennis cover. You can get many different types of covers. You can choose from durable PVC material that is weather resistant. These are perfect for outdoor tennis tables. They also are U.V. stabilized which gives the table extra protection from the sun.

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When you're buying a table tennis cover, make sure they fit well. It helps to have a snugly fitted cover as it gives little or no room for dust, dirt and other materials and even moisture to enter the table surface. These covers also help to give your table tennis table a longer life, free from all defects such as scratches that could ruin the feel of the game.

If you live in a high humidity area then it helps to buy a table tennis cover that is made of tough synthetic fiber. This will provide protection from dampness as well as dust and dirt. Most table tennis covers fit all makes of ping pong tables, but there might be some tables which need customized covers.

If you want your table to last long and protect it from damage then you need to get a very durable table tennis cover. A nylon cover will last for years and it also looks great if you have your table tennis table on display.

You can choose from many different colors and shades of table covers that will go along with your home decor or the feel of your recreation room. Also you have a wide variety of materials to choose from.

One more important factor to consider before buying ping pong table covers is of course the size of your table. Since table tennis tables come in various sizes, you need to buy a cover that fits your table well. An over-sized cover for a small ping pong table will be of no use as it will allow dust, dirt and other particles to enter the surface of the table.

Likewise a small cover for a large table would be a total mismatch and would do no good to protect the ping pong table. Another thing to consider when buying a ping pong cover is the quality; the higher the quality the better. A good quality cover will last long and protect your table and help prolong its life and look.

Protect Your Ping Pong Table With a Table Tennis Cover

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