Penhold Grip
This is the grip favoured by most Asian players.
- The thumb and first finger circle the handle
- The remaining fingers are curled or spread flat on the back of the bat
- Generally speaking, only the forehand side of the bat is used to play the ball - strokes on the backhand side tend to be relatively weak although a recent development among some Chinese penhold players is to play a backhand topspin using the backhand side!
- If you are going to use this grip, you need excellent footwork and anticipation to try and use your forehand as much as possible!
Shakehand Grip
This grip is favoured by the vast majority of European players and some Asians.
- The playing surface is gripped between first finger and thumb, which should be roughly parallel with the straight edge of the rubber.
- The other three fingers are wrapped around the handle for balance
- Do not grip too tightly as this will lock up the muscles in your forearm, making it impossible to use your wrist or generate that all important 'touch'.
