Impact of the Eight Weeks Training Plan on Enhancing Forehand Loop Stroke Speed Through Technique Correction in Table Tennis

Abstract

The forehand loop is considered to be one of the most important strokes in table tennis since it can dominate rallies through its speed, spin as well as accuracy which is quite crucial in competitive table tennis. However, if the player has technical flaws such as the lack of footwork, inadequate body weight shifting as well as faulty mechanics during the follow- through phase, the speed of the stroke and the whole performance of the player can be considerably below par. This action research aimed to investigate the impact of an 8-week training program that focused on improving the technical aspect of the forehand loop to increase the stroke speed of male table tennis players from Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka. The study was conducted by pre-test and post-test design employing video analysis, feedback sessions and progressive drills for technical faults that were rectified and systematically retested. Basic Level t able tennis players were purposively selected during previous tournament where they had obvious technical mistakes. Participants in the exemplar study included analyses of videos and quick tests secured by employing a tennis robot machine for speedy actions and movement quality control. These program’s participants understood biomechanical principles and practiced them in increased pace and stroke consistency over three two-week timeframes for 16 sessions. These pre and post-test assessments were analyzed utilizing Human Movement Analyzing software (Kinovea) to examine how quick one is able to move during stroke, and how efficient those moves were. There were statistically significant improvements in both forehand loop speed and accuracy, and the player was able to utilize this refined technique and have even improved performance. These results highlight the importance of biomechanics-focused training and corrective feedback to optimize technical skills in table tennis. This study will be useful, through evidence-based guidance for coaches and athletes, to enable them to focus appropriate training programs that will bring improved performances by players for competitive outcomes. Additionally, these findings are of great benefit to the Department of Sports and Physical Education as support for skill development initiatives for table tennis players.