The Psychology of Table Tennis

The Psychology of Table Tennis

Table tennis is not just a physical sport but demands a lot of the mind also. As one of the fastest sports in the world, it requires not only quick reflexes but also quick thinking, with decisions on which shot to play having to be made in a split second. It makes sense therefore that we train our minds to play table tennis as well as training our bodies. However, mental training remains largely neglected in our clubs and coaching sessions as coaches and players focus on fine-tuning technique and movement and give little or no time to the mental aspect of the game. Mental toughness is however what separates players of a similar ability in tight situations, it therefore makes sense to include some aspects of mental training into your practice routine.

It was only in the last few years that I started reading up on Sports Psychology and how it can be applied to table tennis, and I took a Diploma Course in Sports Psychology to broaden my knowledge further. Before this I too remained rather ignorant on its key role in performance enhancement. Now when I look back to my own playing career I wish I had known more about Sports Psychology then and how it could have helped me control my anxiety and emotions before, during and after competition.

As a coach I am therefore very keen to pass on this recently acquired knowledge to my players and to my readers. I have delivered several presentations and webinars on the subject and have recently completed an ebook entitled “Mental Toughness in Table Tennis”.

The key aspects of sports psychology which can be applied to table tennis are as follows:

1. Self-motivation: Includes both extrinsic and intrinsic motivators. Extrinsic motivators include such things as medals, rewards and recognition and intrinsic motivators come from within, such as a personal desire to win or sense of pride that comes from performing well.

2. Goal setting: The ability to create precise and challenging short and long term goals which act as motivational factors for an athlete.

3. Positive self-talk: The ability to turn negative thoughts into positive ones.

4. Visualisation & Imagery: Involves visualising performing a task or performing a particular skill successfully. It involves creating an image of what you intend to happen and athletes often use this tool to visualise themselves winning an event.

5. Anxiety & Stress: Athletes often need assistance in dealing with the intense pressure that comes from competition. They need to learn how to channel their nerves in a positive way rather than letting them affect their performance.

6. Emotional control: The ability to control ones emotions in a way that will positively impact on performance.

7. Attentional Focus: Involves the ability to tune out distractions and focus attention on the task at hand.

In my latest ebook entitled “Mental Toughness in Table Tennis”, I examine each of the above topics and more, including mental preparation for competition and the psychology of injury and rehabilitation. I draw on my own experience as a player and as a coach to illustrate how sports psychology can be used to improve your table tennis performance.

Download “Mental Toughness in Table Tennis” now by clicking on the following link: Mental Toughness in Table Tennis