Hi everyone, I've recently swapped rubbers (and blade as well!) and I thought
to leave here at table tennis daily some feedback and comments about the
importance of finding the right match of blade and rubbers to fit your own game style.
Previously I had been playing with Butterfly Innerforce ALC with Tenergy 80 and 05
on forehand and backend. I played with this combination for about 2 years. Since then,
my game has improved somewhat and has also developed into a semi offensive style,
where I make points by a combination of strategies that depend heavily on positional
blocking an counter attacking. As I lack strengh and speed in my most offensive shots
(and I'm still developing/correcting my loop technic, specially on my backend) I try to
add variety in shots in my game. Even though I do like ternegy 05, I had grow to find
it a bit unforgiving and not too tolerant to mistakes. It's was a great rubber when I spinned
with my backend with a perfect technic, but most times, I was not able to do this and adjust,
resulting in an inconsistent game. I've always enjoyed my forehand, ternergy 80. So, at
a recommendation of a friend, I decided two change both rubbers to ternegy 80-fx.
The impact on my game was very visible. If I had to highlight what it has brought into my
game I would say three things: 1) time on the ball, 2) and overall sense of control,
3) and tolerance to my own mistakes when hitting balls. I've now have played with
these rubbers on Jun Mizutani SZLC blade, and I'm very happy. Not only my game has
grown in confidence, but it has also allowed me to keep improving my backend. The ternergy
80-fx feels a lot softer than the 05, and it is really suited my style. Overall, it gives a player
a sense that the ball spends a lot more time on the impact with the rubber, and is clearly
an excellent all rounder. I would particular recommend it to players that are keen on
developing their game through control, other through speed. Since changing to the new
rubbers and blade, my game has improved 10-15% and I'm sure it will continue on that
direction. The most important thing I learned is that is critical for a player to always think
about where their game stands, and think about what rubbers and blades are out there that
can best fit your style, and move it forward. Coaching and practising are very important
but always remember to keep your rubbers updated (and change them frequently) so that
you make the most of it!