Ping pong, the ultimate table showdown that’s also known as table tennis! A game for two to four players who volley a lightweight ball back and forth across a table using small paddles. It’s a fast-paced duel played on a divided table with a net in the middle. The goal? Score points by keeping the ball within the table’s boundaries while outplaying your opponent with precise aim and killer shots. Ready, set, serve up some fun!
The aim of the game is simple; hit the ball over the net onto your opponent’s side. The ball should bounce once on the opponent’s side of the table. A point is won by you if your opponent is unable to return the ball or if they hit the ball before it bounces on their side of the table (unless the ball has already cleared the table).
HERE’S THE LOWDOWN ON HOW TO PLAY PING PONG IN 6 EASY TO FOLLOW STEPS:
1. Set Up:
2. Serve and Rally:
3. Score Points:
4. Serving Rules:
5. Game Setup:
6. Match Play:
A match can be a best of any odd number of games: 3, 5 or 7, but most people play 5 games. Fit as many matches in as you can whilst you have your table – loser buys the next round!
Ping pong can be played with either two players (singles) or four players (doubles), making it a perfect game for both one-on-one showdowns and team battles.
If the ball hits the net during a rally but still manages to make it over, it’s all good, play continues. However, during a serve, if the ball touches the net and doesn’t make it over, it’s a do-over and the player should retake the serve.
During a serve, you have to stand behind the end of the table, tossing the ball up and hitting it from there.
If you touch the table surface with your free hand (the one that’s not holding a paddle) during a rally, your opponent will be awarded with a point automatically. This also applies if you move the table with anything you’re wearing or carrying. Keep those hands off the table and let the ball do the talking!
