The different ways to play table tennis
Versatile and adaptable, table tennis has the advantage of being playable in many different ways. Traditional, individual, competitive or fun formats for children: there is something for everyone! Table tennis can be discovered and reinvented at every level. How can you combine fun and sport? Which game formats should you try?
The traditional game
With two or four players, what could be more enjoyable than a game of table tennis? Beginner, amateur or professional, this format suits most people. For indoor play, choose an indoor table to fit your space. Outdoor tables, much stronger and more resistant, are the best choice for dynamic play. Professionals should go for competition tables, which offer sturdiness and stability.
The rules of table tennis
The first step is to hold your racket properly. Very popular in Asia, the penhold grip means holding the handle the same way as a pen. The classic “European” grip wraps the bottom three fingers around the handle and pinches the blade with the thumb on one side and the index finger on the other. Choose the grip that feels most comfortable. In any case, make sure your wrist is as mobile as possible and your hand relaxed. This will give you more power and precision in your movements. With your racket in hand, decide who will serve first. You can play singles or doubles. In singles, you can send the ball anywhere on the opposite side of the net.
In doubles, the first server is chosen by the team that won the serve, and the first receiver is then chosen by the opposing team. The server must serve diagonally to the right: the ball must first bounce on the server’s right half of the table, then on the receiver’s right half. Each player must then hit the ball in turn. The serve changes as follows: the receiver becomes server, the server’s partner becomes receiver, and so on.
Round the table
Round the table is played with at least three people. Players stand on either side of the table. The side with more players serves first. The idea is to return the ball while moving around the table. When a player misses a ball, they put their racket down on the table. If a player still in the game bounces the ball off that racket, the eliminated player can rejoin. When only two players remain, they play a match to decide the winner.
Playing alone (solo mode)
Table tennis can be played alone, although it is of course much more fun with real partners. A person on their own can also enjoy the physical and mental benefits of this activity. Our tables are designed to allow individual play: one panel can be folded up into a vertical position. Once raised, it lets you train by bouncing the ball off a flat, raised surface. The advantage is that training matches your level, as you can adapt your speed and movements to suit. All Cornilleau tables, except fixed public tables, are designed for solo play.
Fun formats for children
Long rallies can sometimes be difficult for children. Rather than creating frustration, why not offer new game formats? There are many table tennis exercises that bring maximum fun while developing dexterity and racket handling.
The hoop game
The hoop game is an excellent example of fun. To start, place five hoops at different distances. The first hoop is the shooting zone. The aim is to send the ball from the shooting zone into the second hoop, then the third, and so on to the last. Playful and fun, this game develops concentration and precision.
The multi-ball game
The multi-ball game is ideal for older or more experienced children. Each player has a ball in their hand. One player counts to three, then both serve at the same time. Players try to keep the rally going with both balls for as long as possible. This constant exchange builds a sense of cooperation. When only one ball is left in play, the two players become opponents and battle until one wins. Table tennis has no limits! Your curiosity and imagination will be your best assets. Discover, try and adopt the formats that give you the most satisfaction.
FAQ: ways to play table tennis
Where can you play for free?
Many towns, parks and public spaces offer free-to-use table tennis tables. To find one near you, ask your local authority or check urban leisure apps.
From what age can children play?
Children can start playing from the age of 5 or 6 with suitable equipment. The games in this guide, such as the hoop game or multi-ball, are especially recommended for introducing younger children in a fun way. Cornilleau also offers mini tables designed for children, whose smaller size makes play easier from an early age.
