OK, so I’m going to attempt to wade in on this….. Which may make it worse, and as I’m on my phone, it will probably be disjointed! 😂
Any user who has been around a while knows I’ve always advocated for people to upload videos of themselves, and I’ve posted about the benefits in other threads (feel free to search).
The first point I’d like to cover is the one from
@Takkyu_wa_inochi, saying the OP is “boasting” about their backhand.
I have absolutely had this feeling with people in the past, and whilst my natural cynicism would make it very easy to dismiss people simply looking for some cheap praise, I try very hard to simply, be nice.
I think it’s really easy for words to get taken the wrong way on an internet forum. When you factor in how few people are native English speakers, it makes it even harder!
So I always try and be as direct as possible whilst being nice (and giving people the benefit of the doubt if I’m sceptical of their intentions).
My guess with the OP and his backhand is that he didn’t have many examples of hitting his BH, and they probably looked even worse on camera when he came to edit the video - Which is why you predominantly see “OK to Good” BH’s in the video.
Side note - It’s worth seriously highlighting to anyone reading this….. You NEVER look as good on camera as you think.
Your shots won’t look as good, or fast, or spinny and your movement will look average at best.
We are so used to watching really high level professional play, that seeing a VERY good non professional player can often look like you are watching someone average at best.
So for anyone thinking about uploading, don’t worry if it looks rubbish!
Now for point 2, which we’ll call “Gozo-gate” 😂
I’m sure people have seen from my comments, and Gozo himself knows from my DM’s and comments that I’m a huge fan of his constant updates and progression videos.
As the OP didn’t post in the “video safe” thread, anyone could answer.
Personally (and I may be alone here), but I get SIGNIFICANTLY “more” from a post when I know what level the poster plays at.
Ma Long could have a secret account on here, and if that account posted about FH technique, I’d probably ignore most of the comment because I simply have no idea who that person is. They could be a complete beginner repeating other comments, or they could be….. Ma Long.
That’s not to say those who haven’t posted video don’t add a huge amount to the forum. They do. There are lots of regulars who post amazing content and help, who haven’t ever shared video.
There’s a saying, “you don’t know what you don’t know”, and I find this to be very suitable for Table Tennis.
There is just so much that only comes with experience, or being able to play at a certain level, that reading on forums and simply being involved in the sport won’t ever give you.
There are incredibly good players who would have no idea about equipment or even match tactics.
Then there are average players who could be superb tacticians and be able to advise players on that aspect of the game who have a much higher playing level than them (most pro coaches for example).
I don’t think there is anything wrong with Gozo offering his input in this situation - It’s an open thread where anyone can reply, and Gozo has put himself out there for judgement, so should be allowed to comment on others who are asking for it.
However, what I would say (Gozo), is that I would perhaps avoid using video footage of yourself to give advice on the ideal technique.
I think the video you posted is a huge improvement of your own technique, and you should be incredibly proud with how far you’ve already come.
But there are a number of things that are far from perfect (which is expected), and using yourself as the “textbook” is reaching a little far right now.
Had you said the exact same comment, but used a video of Darko Jorjic for example, it would have been better.
The biggest thing you’ll come across is the “spin” element - Right now, you’ve simply not played in many/any matches where people can “really” spin the ball.
Your BH in the video you shared would end up at the bottom of the net (if it even reached the net) against someone who could really backspin a ball.
Again, you don’t know what you don’t know, and that’s ok (you can’t do anything about this! 😊)
I have occasionally used videos of my own technique, but very rarely in a “this is the ideal form” type of thing, and often just to show someone that the shots are achievable for the every day person (but make no mistake, I’ve been playing for 20 years and had coaching as a junior).
If a tall, heavy man came on this forum and asked for help, I’d probably show a video or two of mine 😂
If you have got to the end of this message, I congratulate you!
I hope I covered everything.
Thanks for coming to my TED talk.
