Short push and long push

Setup

1. P1 and P2 at opposite ends, each on their own backhand half, so the rally runs diagonally backhand to backhand.
2. Each rally starts with a short backspin serve or a gentle push.
3. A spare ball or two in a pocket; collect the rest between games so the floor stays clear.

How it runs

1. Phase 1: short pushes only. Each push should be low enough and soft enough to bounce twice on the other side if left alone.
2. Phase 2: after three short pushes, either player may push long and fast to the backhand corner; the other pushes back long and the rally continues.
3. Phase 3: free choice of short or long. A push that sits up high or goes into the net loses the point. Games to 7, then swap ends.

Coaching points

• Short push: step in, open the bat a little and touch the lower back of the ball early, just after the bounce.
• Keep the short push soft and low so its second bounce would land near the net.
• Long push: take the ball a fraction later with a longer, quicker stroke, aiming near the end line.
• Step back out after every push, ready for a long ball.

Common mistakes

• Too much pace on a short push, so it pops up and invites an attack.
• Long pushes that float: keep the bat travelling forward, not just under the ball.
• Reaching with the arm instead of stepping in with the feet.