Written by Ishaan Hingorani

Table tennis has evolved significantly, becoming faster with changes in ball size and shape. Yet, the approach to improvement has not kept pace. Many players invest countless hours in training, expecting better results, but often find progress unsustainable. So, how can one consistently perform at peak levels, becoming not just a better player but a more balanced individual?

The Starting Point: Discipline and Attitude

Everything begins with discipline and attitude. However, this alone isn’t enough. A more holistic approach is needed, incorporating mental practices like self-talk, breathing exercises, meditation, and other methods to help players relax, understand the situation, and make strategic decisions.

Physical fitness should also be non-negotiable, akin to maintaining a daily journal—even if it starts as a forced habit. Today’s youth face motivational challenges, influenced by fast-paced technology and instant gratification. The key to overcoming this is consistency. As James Clear mentions in Atomic Habits, “Motivation often follows action.” By committing to small, regular actions, discipline and motivation naturally develop, leading to significant impacts over time, both in table tennis and in life.

Why Mental and Physical Strength Matter

Mental and physical strength are crucial not just for performance but for realizing one’s true potential. Obstacles like anger, negative feedback, frequent injuries, slower movements, and lack of stamina are within a player’s control. Overcoming these barriers requires a combination of mental resilience and physical conditioning.

At the highest level of competition, most players have similar technical abilities. They know the same strokes and have comparable control. So, what sets the elite apart? It’s their mental agility—the ability to anticipate, read the game, and stay composed under pressure.

The Power of Physical Strength

Physical strength isn’t just about rigorous exercise; it’s about finding balance and positioning on the table. Lower body strength and core stability are essential for explosive lateral movements and maintaining balance. This not only enhances the timing of shots but also allows players to dominate rallies.

Mastering Mental Strength

Mental strength is often the differentiator, especially for younger players. While professional athletes exhibit maturity in managing emotions and staying present, younger players struggle with consistency. Yet, mental resilience can be cultivated through daily practices like:

●      Meditation – Enhances focus and calmness.
●      Self-Talk – Builds confidence and positive mindset.
●      Visualization – Prepares the mind for in-game scenarios.

With discipline and consistency, these practices can yield extraordinary results.

Learning from the Greats

Mental strength is celebrated across all sports. Icons like Novak Djokovic, Kobe Bryant, Michael Phelps, and Ma Long are renowned for their mental resilience. Even Ma Long, considered one of the greatest table tennis players, admitted that if he could change one aspect of his game, it would be his mental approach.

Conclusion: The Balance Between Mind and Body

In table tennis, the harmony of mental and physical strength is the secret to consistent high-level performance. It’s not merely about practicing strokes or putting in long hours. It’s about cultivating the right mindset, maintaining physical fitness, and developing emotional resilience.

By embracing this balanced approach, players can elevate their game, not just technically but holistically, transforming themselves into better athletes and individuals.

 ABOUT THE AUTHOR

My name is Ishaan Hingorani. I’m 24 years old. Born and brought up in western part of India most of my life. I discovered my passion for table tennis despite limited resources and early challenges. Determined to succeed, I traveled across India for better training, eventually defeating top-ranked players and earning over 50 national and international titles including 2024 US Open hardbat doubles silver medalist ,2021 US open U-2400 Gold and U-2600 silver medalist, 2023 US nationals U-2600 silver medalist and 2022 Indian National Games gold medalist.

In 2022, I moved to California at ICC Table Tennis center, where I continue to compete while mentoring young talents who are excelling on national and international stages. Committed to giving back, I donate equipment to underprivileged children in my hometown. My journey is about more than personal success—it's about inspiring the next generation of champions.

Equipment:
Blade: JOOLA Vyzaryz Freeze HRD
Rubbers: JOOLA Dynaryz ZGR both sides