subject: The Importance of Table Tennis Rules [print this page] Ping-pong has often been that game that is played in the basement or recreation room, but many people never go much further than that. It is, however, entirely possible to be bitten by the bug and begin seeking out ways to play table tennis on a more serious level. If you have discovered that you have a skill and a love for the game, then it is important that you learn table tennis rules before going any further. Playing ping-pong with your friends is vastly different from enjoying ping-pong as a sport, and the rules will make that very clear.
As you work through the different rules and techniques to the game, it is important that you are realistic about your abilities. As a new player, you will probably not be able to play at the same skill and difficulty as more seasoned players. Keeping close to the table, moving your feet, and controlling the speed of your swing are all important things to remember. Don't succumb to the desire to show off, but instead use all of your playing time to train yourself and improve your playing.
The table tennis rules also help to keep injuries from taking place. You may not believe that there are many accidents that could cause pain with table tennis, but several people have experience strained muscles or bruises from contact. The lightweight ping-pong ball may not pose much of a threat, but the quickly moving arm of a doubles partner could mess up your whole day. Follow the rules to the letter, and you can avoid hurting yourself and others.
Only after you have mastered the basics and memorized the safety guidelines should you attempt learning fancier shots and swings. There are different patterns for serving and returning, and you can quickly develop your own strategies and techniques. Just remember that your training time is always for learning and growing, and never for showing off. Ping-pong, when played correctly, is a fast-paced game that can drastically improve your hand-eye coordination, but table tennis rules always put safety and learning first. In no time at all, you will be primed to participate in your first competition, but you should remember to use any tournament as a learning opportunity. Even if you don't win, you can pick up new techniques and swings by watching other players, which can greatly enrich your own game.
