Shakehand grip and ready stance

Setup

1. Players at the ends of the tables, about an arm's length back from the end line, with space to step sideways.
2. Coach stands where every player can see them, to the side of the tables.

How it runs

1. Grip: shake hands with the handle. The thumb rests on the forehand rubber near the handle and the index finger lies along the bottom of the backhand rubber; the other three fingers wrap the handle lightly.
2. Check the grip: the blade's edge sits in the V between thumb and index finger, and the bat feels like part of the hand rather than a hammer.
3. Ready stance: feet a bit wider than the shoulders, knees bent, weight forward on the balls of the feet, bat in front of the body at about table height, free hand up for balance.
4. Coach calls 'Ready', 'Forehand' or 'Backhand'. On each call the players take a small step to that side and play a slow shadow stroke, then come back to ready.
5. Finish in pairs: pat the ball gently forehand to forehand, returning to the ready stance after every hit.

Coaching points

• Grip pressure about three out of ten; squeeze only at contact.
• Neither finger creeps up onto the middle of the rubber.
• Stay square to the table at ready; turn the shoulders for each shadow stroke.
• Always come back to ready: the stroke isn't finished until you're there.

Common mistakes

• Index finger in the middle of the backhand rubber, which locks the wrist.
• Standing tall with straight legs and heels down.
• Choking up on the blade, with fingers pinching the rubber.
• Changing grip between forehand and backhand; the shakehand grip stays the same for both.