History of Table Tennis

• Ping Pong is another name for Table Tennis

Game Basics

• A net divides the table tennis table

History

• Table Tennis originated in the 12th Century
• British Army officers played a version of table tennis in the 1880s.
• Table tennis was played by British Army officers in India and South Africa in the 1880s.
• Improvised items like cigar box lids and wine corks were used to play table tennis originally.
• David Foster patented the earliest known table tennis set in the 1890s.
• The sport evolved from social gatherings before gaining official rules.
• John Jacques of London introduced a version of table tennis called Gossima.
• The net in the Gossima game was 30cm high.
• The introduction of the celloid ball was a major improvement in the early 1900s.
• The name "Ping Pong" was chosen because it mimicked the sound of the ball hitting the paddle.
• The "Ping" in Ping Pong refers to a high-pitched sound.
• The Table Tennis Association was founded in 1921.
• Before 2000, the size of the ball used in table tennis tournaments was 38mm.
• The ITTF (International Table Tennis Federation) is the main governing body worldwide today.

Table and Equipment Specs

• The standard thickness of a table tennis table is 3cm.
• The standard length of a table tennis table is 9ft.
• The playing surface of a table tennis table should be dark and non-reflective.
• The surface of a table tennis racket is covered with rubber.
• The diameter of a standard table tennis ball is 40mm.
• Table tennis balls are typically available in yellow and white.

Gameplay

• The primary objective is to score points by making the opponent miss the ball.
• 11 points are needed to win a game of table tennis.
• In doubles, serves should be executed from the right court to the right court.
• If a serve touches the net and still lands correctly, it is considered a "LET."
• Volleys are not allowed in table tennis.
• Disagreements should be resolved by mutual agreement of players, according to the honor system.
• "Deuce" means the score is tied at 10-10 and must be won by two points.
• The correct name for the grip also known as Chinese Grip is Penhold grip.
• Not throwing the ball before serving is a serving violation.
• Using a backhand shot is NOT a returning violation.
• Arguing with the umpire is considered a technical foul.
• If the ball bounces back to the opponent's side without them hitting it, the hitter wins the point.
• A serve should be started with the ball in an open palm.
• The ball must be thrown at least 16cm high during a legal serve.
• The server must get their free arm and hand out of the way after throwing the ball.
• The ball must be positioned above and behind the table throughout the serve.
• A doubles pair must strike the ball alternately.
• The previous receiver becomes the new server when service changes in doubles.
• Each player gets 2 serves before the opponent serves.
• When the score reaches 10-10, each player gets one serve and must win by two points.
• Players must change ends in a best of 3, 5, or 7 match format after each game.

Officials

• Controlling the crowd is one of the umpire's primary responsibilities.
• The scorer assists in getting player signatures after a match.
• The umpire must familiarize themselves with the rules before a tournament.

Shots and Training

• A topspin shot produces a ball that rotates forward.
• A player must win 11 games.
• Shadow play is often used to develop muscle memory and stroke consistency.
• The ideal body position for effective footwork in table tennis is low and balanced with bent knees.