Table tennis · Loop & topspin · Push & block

Loop-to-block rally

One player loops down the line, the other blocks it back, building a consistent topspin rally before any variation is added.

P1P2
Start / 6
Time
15 min
Players
2–4
Age
U12+
Area
Table
Equipment
20 balls

Setup

  1. P1 loops from the forehand side, slightly back from the table. P2 blocks from the backhand side, close to the table.
  2. The line runs P1's forehand to P2's backhand.

How it runs

  1. P2 starts with a long topspin serve to P1's forehand.
  2. P1 loops down the line; P2 blocks back to P1's forehand.
  3. Count loops in a row; target 10, then 20.
  4. Three minutes, then swap so both players loop and block.
  5. Variation: every fourth block goes to the middle and P1 must move the feet to keep looping.

Coaching points

  • Looper: rotate from the hips and transfer weight from the back foot to the front foot.
  • Looper: aim for a safe arc over the net and depth; consistency first, then pace.
  • Blocker: bat in front, angle closed, short stroke; take the ball just after the bounce.
  • Blocker: let the incoming topspin do the work and place the ball, don't swing.

Common mistakes

  • Looper drifting too close and hitting up from cramped arms.
  • Blocker swinging, which sends the ball long.
  • Blocker's bat angle too open, so the ball flies off the end.

Say it: “Loop through, block in front.”

Make it harder

  • Blocker places to either half at random.
  • Looper alternates a slow spinny loop and a faster drive loop.

Make it easier

  • Looper drives with light topspin before adding a full loop.
  • Count 5 in a row before moving to 10.

Reviewed by the Sportdify coaching team.