Ping pong (pronounced: ping-pong) is a table tennis sport that is played with a small, hollow paddle called a bat. It is a very fast-paced game and requires high levels of mental agility. It is also a very social activity, encouraging communication and teamwork between players. It can be a great way to relax and relieve stress.
It is important to keep your eyes on the ball at all times and watch for its direction. You must be able to tell when your opponent is ready to hit, and you must quickly make decisions about where to place the ball. This is why consistent practice is essential, and this will help you become a better player.
The 1950s were often referred to as the “Golden Age” of ping pong, as it became a popular recreational pastime for people of all ages and backgrounds. The game was widely embraced by the media, and photos of ping pong champions were blasted across the public print. The popularity of the game also led to “ping pong diplomacy,” a period in the 1970s in which Cold War tensions between the US and China were eased with a series of highly publicized table tennis matches between athletes from both countries.
To play ping pong correctly, you need a smooth and flat surface such as a wooden or plastic table. The ball must be celluloid or plastic and 40 mm in diameter. It must be a competition ball and it must have two colors on it. The paddle must be wooden or plastic and hollow with rubber. You may use a variety of rackets, but the best is a paddle that is light, compact, and balanced. You can find many different brands of ping pong equipment online, but the most popular is made by Parker Brothers.