How to play a forehand push in table tennis

What is a forehand push?

A forehand push is a defensive stroke, where you put backspin on the ball.

When should you play a forehand push?

You’re most likely to play a forehand push when the ball already has backspin on it, either from an opponent’s serve or in the opening stages of a rally. The main reason you use a forehand push is to make it difficult for your opponent to attack. For example, if your opponent serves a short backspin serve to your forehand, you can play a short forehand push back or push back fast and long. Either option will make it difficult for your opponent to play a strong attack.

How do you play a forehand push?

  1. Start with your bat to the side of your body, just below chest height
  2. Turn your bat so your playing side is facing upwards
  3. As the ball approaches, bring your bat forwards and down
  4. Brush under the ball – this will generate backspin
  5. Your bat should finish in front of you, pointing in the direction in the direction you want the ball to go

Common mistakes

  1. Don’t play too close to your body – this will make it awkward to play the stroke. Make sure you play to the side of your body and you will have better control.
  2. Don’t hit too hard – the ball will most likely fly off the end of the table. Play with a relaxed grip and smooth action. The more you brush the ball, the more backspin it will have.

Further reading and viewing