Table Tennis Falkenberg Footwork Drill

A classic table tennis drill that links a backhand, a forehand from the backhand corner, and a forehand from the forehand corner. Students work on side-to-side footwork, rotating the body, and keeping a consistent rally.

How to play

1. Pairs at each table: one student is the blocker and always returns to the other player's backhand corner; the other is the worker.
2. Shadow walkthrough with no ball: the worker practices backhand, side step and forehand from the backhand corner, long step and forehand from the forehand corner (2 min).
3. With the ball: the blocker sends two balls to the backhand corner and one to the forehand; the worker always returns to the same diagonal at an easy pace.
4. Sets of 90 seconds counting full cycles without a miss; then switch roles (4 sets each, 12 min).
5. Wrap-up: each pair names the hardest step, then stretches calves and shoulders (2 min).

Rules

• The worker sets the pace; the blocker does not speed up.
• Return to the ready position, knees bent, after every shot.
• If a ball rolls to another table, ask for it and wait.
• Wear athletic shoes, tied tight, to prevent slipping.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the blocker feeds closer to the middle and trunk rotation replaces the footwork.
• Autism: show the pattern on a card with arrows and keep the same partner.
• Fitness level: 60-second sets with longer rests in between.

Learning goals

• Link backhands and forehands with side-to-side footwork.
• Hold a ready position between shots.
• Keep a consistent rally with a partner.

Equipment for a class of 25

• ping-pong tables: 6
• paddles: 25
• ping-pong balls: 40

Teacher tip

The usual mistake is hitting the forehand with just the arm and no body turn; cue right-handers to drop the right foot back before each forehand. If blockers miss a lot, slow the pace down.

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