Ping pong is a fun and fast-paced game that can be played in community centres, backyards, gyms, bars, and family game rooms. It’s easy to pick up but takes years to master. It’s also a great way to spend time with friends and family while keeping the brain active!
In ping pong, players play either one-on-one or in teams of two. The game is played on a table with a net across the middle. Each player has two paddles, which are commonly made from wood and foam and have pimpled or stippled rubber on both sides. Players can choose to add a spin to the ball, which affects how it travels on the surface of the table.
During a match, points are scored when the ball hits your opponent’s side of the table and does not return to their side. The winner of each point is awarded a serve. The game goes up to 11 points before the service alternates between both players. A popular variation of ping pong, Rundlauf (round the table), originates in Germany and allows larger groups of players to enjoy the game at the same time.
The best way to become a better player is to practice regularly with someone who wants to play as much as you do! It’s important to find a partner who is at your skill level or a little higher, and preferably not aggressively competitive. It’s also helpful to get plenty of sleep and eat well!