Ping pong, otherwise known as table tennis, is a very exciting game that makes use of rackets, hollow ball and a playing table as equipment. It is categorized as an indoor racquet sport, which was first played some time in the 1880s. Many people love this game because it requires quick reactions and fast play. Furthermore, it is an excellent means of exercise because it involves a variety of physical movements. In order to have a better understanding of the game, it is good to know the different ping pong table dimensions.
Dimensions of Ping Pong Table
The official length of the ping pong table is 9 feet or 2.74 meters. In terms of width, the standard size is 5 feet or 1.525 meters. The height of the table from the floor is 30 inches or 76 centimeters. It is made from Masonite, which is a kind of timber or hardwood coated with a low-friction and smooth layer.
Found at the middle of the ping pong table is a net, which divides the playing areas of the opposing players. The standard height of the net starting from the board is 6 inches or 15.25 centimeters. The net also comes with an overhang, which is also measured at 6 inches or 15.25 centimeters. More often than not, the surface of the table is painted blue or green.
Additional Information and Other Interesting Details
Established in 1926, the International Table Tennis Federation is the highest governing body of the sport. Aside from the names ping pong and table tennis, some people refer to it as wiff waff. It is a non-contact sport, which can be played in singles or doubles competitions. It became an Olympic sport in 1988. Ever since, it has been one of the highly anticipated events of the prestigious international tournament. The game is divided into four major Olympic events from 1988 to 2004, namely women’s doubles, men’s doubles, women’s singles and men’s singles.
Players can use a variety of ways and styles to play the game. When gripping rackets, they can use either the so-called shakehand or penhold. Of course, there are other styles available, but these two are the most popular. The shots are divided into two major types, namely the defensive and offensive strokes. The defensive strokes include the drop shot, the lob or highball and side dive. There are also other effective defensive moves such as the kill spin, push-block and chop.
In terms of offensive moves, players can choose from a bevy of options including the smash, flip and counter dive. They can also use the different types of loop drive, namely the hook, the loop kill and the loop. It is also good to score loads of points using the so-called speed drive.