Table tennis · Receive · Backhand

Backhand flick over the table

Step in and flick a short serve with the backhand, then be ready for the block that comes back.

P1P2
Start / 5
Time
15 min
Players
2–3
Age
U12+
Area
One table
Equipment
30 balls1 ball box on a chair1 ball net or pick-up tube

Setup

  1. P2 serves short to P1's backhand half or the middle, starting with no-spin or light backspin serves.
  2. P1 stands close to the table on the backhand half, ready to step in.
  3. Balls are kept in a box on a chair and gathered from the floor after every set.

How it runs

  1. P2 serves short; P1 steps in and flicks the ball over the table with the backhand.
  2. P2 blocks the flick back to P1's backhand, P1 plays one more backhand and the point is then played out.
  3. 10 serves each, then swap. Score 1 for a flick that lands and 1 more for winning the point.

Coaching points

  • Step in with the right foot under the table (left foot for left-handers) so the body is close and the bat is over the ball.
  • Bring the elbow up and forward and cock the wrist back, with the bat in front of the body.
  • Contact at the top of the bounce. Against backspin, open the bat a little and brush more upward; against no spin, go more forward.
  • Keep the flick compact, then step straight back out for the next ball.

Common mistakes

  • Flicking from too far away with a straight arm.
  • Letting the ball drop low before contact, so it has to be lifted over the net.
  • Staying in after the flick and being jammed by the block.

Say it: “Step in, top of the bounce, flick, out.”

Make it harder

  • P2 mixes in heavier backspin; P1 adjusts the bat angle.
  • P2 calls a corner as the serve is struck and P1 flicks there.

Make it easier

  • P2 feeds the short ball from the hand instead of serving.
  • No-spin serves only.

Reviewed by the Sportdify coaching team.