Also known as table tennis, ping pong is the undisputed champion of tabletop gaming. A true classic, this micro tennis match has volleyed its way into sporting history—from its humble beginnings as a recreational activity—to an internationally recognised skill on the Olympic world stage.
In this fast-paced duel, two to four players compete to return a lightweight, hollow ball over a central net and into their opponents half of the court. Take your eye off the ball, and it’s game over. Score points by keeping the ball within the table’s boundaries and outplaying your opponent with precision and quick reflexes. Think you’ve got what it takes to go for gold?
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).
Head over to the Games Desk to grab your paddles and balls – and make sure you grab a drink to accompany your games… things are about to get competitive!
Kick things off by serving the ball across the net to your opponent’s side. They have to return it before it hits the table twice. Then it’s back and forth, trying to outplay each other.
Rack up points by getting the ball past your opponent. If they miss or hit it before it bounces on their side, you snag a point. First to hit 11 points wins, but if it’s tied at 10-10, keep going until someone’s ahead by 2.
When serving, make sure the ball bounces on your side first, then across the net. If it nicks the net and still makes it over, redo the serve. But if it gets stuck in the net or flies off the table, it’s your opponent’s point.
Serve from wherever you want in singles play, aiming anywhere on the table. Switch up servers every two points, or if it’s tied at 10-10, switch after each point.
Matches can be best of 3, 5, or 7 games—or really any odd number you’re feeling. Just keep it fun and competitive!
Let the good times roll with a classic ping pong session. You’ll find ping pong at every Roxy Lanes venue across the United Kingdom, as well as some Roxy Ball Room sites.
Have questions about your ping pong experience? From setting up to improving your skills, we’ve got everything covered to help you make the most of your time at Roxy. Explore the FAQs below for tips, and safety guidelines to ensure a fun and seamless night for all!
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!
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