One of the many things that any aspiring table tennis player must learn in order to become a very good player is the many different kinds of table tennis equipment that is used. Basically there are four pieces of equipment that are used and that include: the ball, the racket or paddle; the table and the net.
The ball that is used in the game is a 2.7 gram, small celluloid ball that is usually colored white or orange depending on the preference of the players. They can come in different qualities with those possessing 3 stars being the best kind and is often recommended especially to those who are just starting up. Also, they come in a range of sizes from 38 mm to 54 mm in diameter. However, the 40 mm diameter ball is the one that is used mainly on international leagues and competitions as it is the one that is specified by the International Table Tennis Federation of ITTF.
The table tennis racket or paddle is another important piece of equipment that is used in hitting the ball back and forth on the table. Its shape is similar to the ones used in the game of tennis except that it is smaller and is made of different materials. The racket is usually made of wood and rubber and is divided into two parts: the handle and the blade. The quality of both of the parts of the racket can affect the force that can be applied by the player and it is important the player choose the best kind of rackets in order to really improve. Aside from that, the player must take notice of the kind of rubber that is used on the blade as this can affect the type and amount of spin that can be used in hitting the ball. Rackets are available in premade as well as customized conditions. All beginners are recommended to acquire the premade ones in order to avoid the confusion of making customized ones. However, they must be sure to buy from reputable table tennis stores or sport shops, or online table tennis stores.
Included in the list of important table tennis equipment is the table where the game is to be played. The ITTF specifies that the official tables that are used in the tournament must be 9 ft long, 5 ft wide and must be placed 30 inches high from the ground. They come in either green, blue or black in color and are usually made from a type of hardboard. The surface must be smooth as to provide the lowest friction as possible.
The net which is the last piece of important equipment is usually brought together with the table or with the rackets or it can be bought by itself. Whatever the case, it should be six feet long and six inches wide and has an upper white tape that is not more than 15mm wide. Also, it should include an assembly so that it can be attached to the middle of the table tennis table.
These are the four basic equipments that any aspiring player must be familiar with. All of these are necessary in order to be able to play a game of table tennis. There are still other types of table tennis equipment that must be learned such as the shoes, clothing and accessories. However, these are optional and can be readily availed later on.