If you are someone who loves to keep moving your feet, while constantly working with your arms, and your mind on full focus – then table tennis is your kind of sport! Whatever we just said might sound a little exhausting, but believe us, this sport is not just fun to play, but a delight to watch too!
Table tennis, also known as ping pong, is a fun and exciting sport that people of all ages can enjoy. Whether you're playing to be fit and fine, or aiming to defeat the biggies, having the right equipment is the key.
As you know, SportsBunker brings to you the best sports equipment, from the leading brands – the same goes for equipment of table tennis as well. Through this blog, we will walk you through the essential items you need to play table tennis, so that you rule the table every time you hit that little ball.
Get ready with this table tennis equipment list
Whether you are a newbie to the sport, or a professional one, playing TT needs you to have a few things handy. Here is what you must have with you to play this sport -
- Table tennis table – well this is the basic requirement, isn’t it? The table, or board, has the following features -
- Size: A standard TT table is 9 feet long, 5 feet wide, and 2.5 feet high.
- Surface: The playing surface should be smooth to ensure the ball bounces evenly.
- Net: The net that divides it into two halves should be 6 inches high.
- Table tennis racket (TT racket or bat) - The racket, also known as a paddle, is what you use to hit the ball. It is necessary to hit the ball and control its direction. It has the following features -
- Blade, made from wood and usually has a handle for a good grip. Bats are generally durable; players change the rubber time to time though.
- Rubber, on both sides of the blade which helps with spin and control. People use different kinds of rubbers, based on their playing style.
- Grip, which should be comfortable to hold on to the bat. It is very important to go for comfortable and sturdy grips.
- Table tennis balls - The ball is small, very lightweight, and usually made of celluloid or plastic. TT balls are very bouncy.
Features:
- Size: The standard size is 40 mm in diameter. Players usually prefer balls with a “3 star rating” and above.
- Weight: The ball should weigh 2.7 grams.
- Colour: Although table tennis balls come in orange as well as white colours, white is the preferred one among professional players.
- Table tennis net and post set - The net and post set divides the table into two equal halves. Made with durable materials, these are also easy to set up and take down for storage or transport. These are the features of a TT net and post set -
- Height: The net should be 6 inches tall.
- Set up: Easy to attach and remove from the table.
- Adjustability: Some sets allow you to adjust the tension and height of the net.
- Table tennis clothing and shoes
Wearing the right clothing and shoes can make a big difference in your comfort and performance. Here’s what to look for -
- Clothing:
- Shirt and shorts, made using lightweight, breathable, and flexible materials that help you move freely.
- Socks, made from comfortable and moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry.
- Shoes:
- Grip: Shoes with a strong grip prevent slipping and provide stability.
- Support: Proper cushioning and support protect your feet during quick movements.
- Additional accessories
There are several other accessories that can enhance your table tennis experience. From keeping your equipment organized and clean, to extending its life, these accessories are very important.
- Racket Case, to protect your racket from damage. It also keeps your racket in good condition for longer use.
- Ball Holder, to keep the extra balls for convenience during play. It also prevents balls from getting lost or scattered.
- Table Cover, which protects the table from dust and damage when not in use. It basically extends the life of your table.
Choosing the right equipment of table tennis -
When selecting your table tennis equipment, you might want to choose items that fit your needs, playing style as of course, your budget. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:
- Invest in high-quality equipment that will last longer and provide a better playing experience. Some brands, such as Stag, DONIC, or Butterfly offer the best kinds of TT bats and balls.
- Make sure your clothing and shoes are comfortable and allow for easy movement. You can choose SportsBunker for branded sports footwear and apparel.
- Choose a racket that feels good in your hand and is suited to your playing style. What suits your partner, might not suit you.
- Pick balls that are easy to see against the table surface. White being the neutral colour is often preferred by players.
Tips for playing table tennis
Once you have all your equipment set up, it's time to do some ping pong playing! Here are some simple tips to help you get started:
- The more you practice, the better you'll get. Try to play regularly to improve your skills.
- Understanding the basic rules of table tennis will help you play fair and enjoy the game more.
- Remember, the most important part of playing table tennis is to have fun. Enjoy the game and the time spent with friends and family.
Choose SportsBunker for table tennis kit, and more!
If you have noticed, table tennis is a fantastic sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. But having the right equipment and setting up a suitable playing space are a must for hours of fun. Whether you're playing casually or aiming to compete, table tennis essentials at SportsBunker will help you get the most out of the game.
Happy playing!