Class 8 Khel Yatra Unit 4 – Fundamental Skills of Sports: Table Tennis with easy NCERT and CBSE Notes, Solutions, Questions & Answers and Worksheet. Learn important table tennis skills and concepts with simple Class 8 Khel Yatra study material for revision, practice and exam preparation.
Unit 4 – Fundamental Skills of Sports
Table Tennis
Class 8 Khel Yatra – Easy Notes and Book Solutions
Reprint 2026–27
Grip • Footwork • Strokes • Services • Game
Table tennis racket, ball and net – Wikimedia Commons.
Shakehand grip – Wikimedia Commons.
Table tennis racket – Wikimedia Commons.
Table Tennis – Easy Concept
Table tennis is one of the fastest racquet games in the world. It is played on a wooden table with a net and a small ball.
Players use forehand and backhand strokes with defensive and attacking techniques. The game needs quick reflexes, eye-hand coordination, accuracy, concentration and fast movement.
Table tennis was earlier known as Ping-Pong and Gossima. It can be played as a recreational, remedial and competitive sport.
In this unit we learn about speed, strength, quick reaction time and physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual skills.
Table, net, 40+ mm ball and racquet.
Forehand, backhand, push, drive, topspin and smash.
Speed, strength, quick reaction, balance and coordination.
Concentration, confidence, fair play, teamwork and strategy.
1. Grip
A grip is the technique used to hold the racquet. It is the first and foremost requirement for developing table tennis skills.
Types of Grip
1. Shakehand Grip
- Hold the racquet like shaking hands.
- Place the thumb and index finger parallel to the straight edge of the rubber.
- Wrap the remaining three fingers around the handle.
- Keep the grip loose for better readiness, flexibility, strength, rotation and stability.
2. Penhold Grip
- Hold the racquet like holding a pen.
- Thumb and index finger hold the actual handle near the blade.
- The remaining fingers are placed around the back of the racquet blade.
- There are Chinese and Japanese types of Penhold Grip.
- Shakehand Grip is more commonly used worldwide.
Warm-up
- Open palm stretch.
- Wrist rotation clockwise and anti-clockwise.
- Flexion and extension of the wrist.
- Radial and ulnar deviation.
- Rotation with open palm and closed fist.
Lead-up Activity – Tapping the Ball
- Forehand tapping: Bounce the ball using the forehand side of the racquet.
- Backhand tapping: Bounce the ball using the backhand side.
- Combination tapping: Alternate between forehand and backhand sides.
- Perform each activity for two minutes and count the number of taps.
Variations
- The same activity can be done while walking or running straight, around the table or in a zig-zag way.
- The activity can be conducted outdoors. A corridor is a good option when it is windy.
Circle Time – Strength and Flexibility
Identify, while holding the racquet, which muscles are involved and which joints allow the rotation of the hand while performing the alternate backhand and forehand tapping of the ball on the racquet. How did you manage to balance the knock on the ball from the centre of your paddle while walking or running?
Discuss how you felt after completing the desired number of knocks on the ball by forehand and backhand.
Table Tennis is both an individual and team sport, featured in various tournament formats such as the New Swaythling Cup, Corbillon Cup, and Olympic patterns.
2. Footwork
Footwork is the way a player moves the feet to reach the correct position for returning the ball. Good footwork gives quick reactions, balance and smooth movement.
Types of Footwork
Basic Footwork
1. Stance
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Keep knees slightly bent.
- Lean the body forwards.
- Stay on the balls of the feet for quick movement.
2. Side-to-Side Movement
- Push off with one foot to move laterally.
- Maintain balance while moving smoothly.
- Keep the racquet in a neutral position.
3. Forward Movement
- Step forward with the leading foot when attacking.
- Transfer weight onto the front foot.
- Stay low to maintain stability.
4. Backward Movement
- Push off the front foot to move backward.
- Keep the body centred and balanced.
- Stay ready to return to the table.
5. Follow-through
- Return to ready stance after each shot.
- Stay light on the feet for the next movement.
Lead-up Activity
Players stand on one side of the table. The teacher or feeder calls out “Left!”, “Right!”, “Forward!”, or “Back!”. Players move according to the instruction as quickly as possible while maintaining balance.
- A wrong or slow movement receives a point against the player.
- The first player to get 5 points against them loses.
- To increase difficulty, players can move and hit a shot at the same time.
Variations
- Set up cones or ladders in different positions and move between them quickly.
- The coach throws multiple balls in different areas and the player adjusts footwork to hit each ball.
- Two players compete to shuffle from side to side quickly without losing balance.
Circle Time – Eye-hand-ear Coordination
How can visual and verbal cues to help improve footwork and what are some effective cues to enhance speed, balance, and positioning?
Visual and verbal cues tell us where and when to move. They help us react quickly, keep balance and reach the correct position.
There are 11 classifications in the paralympic event of table tennis, Class 1 to 5 are for wheelchair play Class 6 to 10 for standing disabilities and Class 11 for intellectually challenged players.
3. Forehand Push
The Forehand Push is a defensive stroke used to return short and low balls with backspin. It helps control rallies and prevents aggressive attacks.
Technique
Lead-up Activity
Players pair up and rally using only the forehand push, trying to keep the ball on the table. If a player makes an error, the opponent earns one point. The first player to win five points wins the round.
Teachers can introduce a target accuracy challenge where players aim for marked zones on the table.
Notes for the Teacher
- Demonstrate the correct technique first.
- Focus on racquet angle, ball contact and follow-through.
- Start with slow and controlled pushes.
- Emphasise accuracy over power.
Variation
A deeper push can force the opponent away from the table and disturb their position.
Circle Time – Realisation
Discuss how the ball moved when you hit it from different positions; for example, when your weight was on your rear leg, middle line, or on your forwards leg. How did each position change the power, control, and accuracy of your shot?
4. Backhand Push
The Backhand Push is a defensive stroke used to return short and low balls with or without backspin. It helps control rallies and return serves.
Technique
Lead-up Activity
Players pair up and rally using only the backhand push, aiming to keep the ball on the table. If a player makes an error, the opponent earns one point. The first player to win five points wins the round.
To increase difficulty, use marked target zones. A thread can also be tied across the table through the net clamps four inches above the net, and players may pass the ball between the thread and net.
Notes for the Teacher
- Demonstrate correct backhand push technique.
- Focus on grip, ball contact and follow-through.
- Start slowly before increasing speed and spin.
- Emphasise consistency over power.
Variations
- A soft push with heavy backspin can keep the ball short.
- A deeper push can force the opponent away from the table.
Circle Time – Feel the Muscles
Discuss and compare the body parts or muscles that were engaged while performing this skill with those that were used in other skills. Highlight the similarities and differences in movement and effort. Also, try to count the constant returns and increase the numbers.
5. Basic Service
Service is an important skill in table tennis. Beginners should learn a legal and consistent serve by following the correct technique and laws.
Lead-up Activity
Place a small tub at the centre of the opponent’s side of the table. Players take turns to serve five times and aim to land the ball inside the tub. A successful target earns one point.
Note for the Teacher
Make sure players toss the ball vertically at least 16 cm and strike it after it begins to fall. The ball should not be hidden by any body part or partner.
Variations
- A soft serve that bounces twice or more on the opponent’s side can result in losing a point.
- A faster serve can reach deep near the end line.
- A serve directed towards the corners can make the opponent move.
Circle Time – Fairplay
Discuss the importance offair play in sports and how it promotes respect and integrity. If you notice a teammate engaging in foul play, how would you address the situation while maintaining team spirit?
Fair play teaches us to follow rules, respect others and play honestly. We should politely tell our teammate to follow the rules and encourage them to play fairly.
6. Topspin Service
A Topspin Service is an attacking serve that makes the ball spin forwards. The ball dips quickly and bounces aggressively towards the opponent.
Lead-up Activity
Players serve in pairs using a topspin motion. A successful service that bounces twice or causes a weak return earns one point. The first player to reach five points wins.
A target accuracy challenge can be used by marking areas on the table. A spin challenge can also be used.
Notes for the Teacher
- Demonstrate the correct topspin service technique.
- Focus on grip, body position and brushing movement.
- Practise slowly before increasing power and speed.
Variations
- A soft brushing motion can make the ball bounce twice.
- A stronger shot with more spin can land deep and force a quick reaction.
Circle Time – Ball Trajectory
Discuss the significance of the ball trajectory. How does the topspin affect the ball’s movement and the opponent’s return?
Ball trajectory tells us how the ball travels. Topspin makes the ball dip and move faster after bouncing, making the return more difficult.
7. Backspin Service
A Backspin Service makes the ball spin backwards. It slows after bouncing and can make attacking difficult for the opponent.
Lead-up Activity
Players serve in pairs using backspin. A correct serve that forces a weak return or mistake earns one point. The first player to reach five points wins.
A spin effect challenge can be used where the players try to make the ball return towards the net after bouncing. A target-zone challenge can also be used.
Notes for the Teacher
- Demonstrate the correct backspin service.
- Focus on grip, ball contact and follow-through.
- Start with slow controlled serves.
- Emphasise consistency.
Variations
- A soft serve can bounce twice and become difficult to attack.
- A faster serve can still use backspin and make a powerful return difficult.
Circle Time – Reflection and Strategy
What was the most challenging part of executing the backspin service?
Controlling the racquet angle and creating the correct amount of backspin can be challenging.
How does backspin affect the ball’s movement and the opponent’s return?
Backspin slows the ball after it bounces and makes it harder for the opponent to attack strongly.
When would you use a backspin service in a match situation?
It can be used when we want to slow the ball, control the rally and make the opponent’s attack difficult.
8. Forehand Drive
The Forehand Drive is an attacking stroke used to hit the ball with speed and control. It uses a forward and slightly upward movement and creates light topspin.
Lead-up Activity
Place or hang a hula hoop at upper-body height. Players work in pairs and try to hit the ball through the hoop. Each successful hit earns one point.
Notes for the Teacher
- Focus on grip, stance and swing.
- Allow practice in pairs or against a wall.
- Give individual feedback.
Variations
- Keep the ball low and close to the net.
- Practise placing the ball on the left, right and centre areas of the table.
Circle Time – Coordination, Control, and Consistency
How did controlling the ball help in the game?
Good ball control helps us keep the ball on the table and place it where we want.
What adjustments did you make to improve your accuracy?
I adjusted my foot position, racquet angle, swing and ball contact to improve accuracy.
9. Backhand Drive
The Backhand Drive is an attacking stroke that allows a player to hit the ball with speed and control using the backhand side of the racquet.
Lead-up Activity
Players rally using only the backhand drive. The rally continues until one player makes an error. The winner earns one point. The first player to reach five points wins the round.
Target challenge, timed rally and knockout variations can be introduced.
Notes for the Teacher
- Demonstrate correct technique.
- Focus on grip, stance and follow-through.
- Allow individual, wall and partner practice.
Variations
- Keep the ball low and close to the net.
- Practise hitting to the left, right and centre of the table.
Circle Time – Proper Technique
Discuss the significance of proper technique and phases during practice.
Proper technique helps us control the ball, improve accuracy and reduce mistakes. Practising each phase makes the stroke better.
10. Forehand Topspin
The Forehand Topspin is an attacking stroke that creates forward spin. The ball dips quickly and accelerates after bouncing.
Lead-up Activity
Players rally using only the forehand topspin. A missed topspin gives the opponent one point. The first player to reach five points wins.
Players can increase speed while maintaining control and consistency. Marked areas can be used for bonus points.
Notes for the Teacher
- Demonstrate grip, footwork, ball contact and body rotation.
- Start with slow and controlled topspins.
- Increase power and speed gradually.
Variations
- The technique is useful for countering backspin.
- A faster shot with less arc and more forward speed can be used for attacking.
Circle Time – Spin
How does the spin affect the speed, bounce, and control of the ball in a forehand topspin, and why is it an important skill?
Topspin makes the ball dip, move quickly and bounce forward. It gives better control and helps create an attacking shot.
11. Backhand Topspin
The Backhand Topspin is an attacking stroke that creates forward spin. The ball dips quickly and accelerates after bouncing.
Lead-up Activity
Players rally using only the backhand topspin. A missed shot gives the opponent one point. The first player to reach five points wins.
Players aim to create maximum topspin and land shots in marked areas for bonus points.
Notes for the Teacher
- Demonstrate grip, foot positioning and ball contact.
- Start with slow controlled topspins.
- Increase spin, power and speed gradually.
Variations
- A slow, high-arching shot with heavy topspin can counter backspin.
- A quicker, lower shot with less arc can be used for aggressive attacking.
Circle Time – Spin
How does the angle of the racket affect the spin, speed, and control of the ball in a backhand topspin shot? Why is adjusting the racket angle important?
The racquet angle changes the amount and direction of spin. Adjusting it helps control the speed, height and placement of the ball.
Discuss the variation of the racquet angle between the slow but high arching shots and of the lower shots with a less arc.
A high-arching shot uses an angle that helps lift the ball more. A lower shot uses a more controlled angle to keep the ball low and fast.
Table tennis is played under fifteen basic laws developed by the International Table Tennis Federation. Discuss some of them with your friends.
12. Smash
The Smash is one of the most powerful strokes in table tennis. It is used when the opponent returns a high ball.
Lead-up Activity
One player tosses the ball high and the opponent attempts a smash. If the smash lands on the table and cannot be returned, the player earns one point.
Players can aim for marked target zones while the opponent tries to return the smash.
Note for the Teacher
Demonstrate proper smash technique, focusing on positioning, shoulder movement, arm movement and follow-through.
Variations
- A smash can be played from the forehand or backhand side.
- A powerful smash can use full-body rotation.
- A deceptive smash can use less power and short placement.
Circle Time – Strategy
When should you use a smash instead of a topspin? How can you position yourself for a smash and what adjustments are needed against different opponents?
A smash is useful when the opponent gives a high ball. Stand in a good position, move back if needed and adjust the placement according to the opponent.
13. Table Tennis Game
This activity combines the table tennis skills learned in the unit.
Warm-up
Full body stretching, jogging on the spot, ladder drills and high knees.
Cool-down
Full body stretching exercises.
How to Play?
- There will be a game of five points which will consist of all the skills you have learned.
- Whenever a player wins a rally, they earn a point.
- The game is won by the first player to score five points.
- In a situation in which Player A serves and wins the rally, they advance to serve with a 1-0 lead.
- If Player B wins the subsequent rally, Player B receives the chance to serve and the score is tied at one. Players keep serving and rallying throughout the game until one person reaches five points.
- Another player can be involved to count the score.
Circle Time – Enjoy
How did you gather your focus when you started losing on points?
I stayed calm, concentrated on the next rally and tried to use the correct technique instead of worrying about the score.
Identify the rallies, shots, and moments in the games when you enjoyed the most irrespective of who scored the points.
I enjoyed long rallies, successful shots and moments when both players played with good skill and fair play, no matter who scored.
Unit 4 – Quick Revision
Grip
Shakehand and Penhold are the two main types of grip.
Footwork
Good footwork helps in quick movement, balance and positioning.
Defensive Strokes
Forehand Push and Backhand Push help control rallies.
Services
Basic Service, Topspin Service and Backspin Service are important serving skills.
Attacking Strokes
Forehand Drive, Backhand Drive, Forehand Topspin and Backhand Topspin are attacking skills.
Smash
A powerful attacking stroke used especially against a high ball.
Important Table Tennis Terms
| Term | Easy Meaning |
|---|---|
| Grip | The way a player holds the racquet. |
| Shakehand Grip | A grip in which the racquet is held like shaking hands. |
| Penhold Grip | A grip in which the racquet is held like a pen. |
| Footwork | Correct movement of the feet to reach the ball. |
| Forehand Push | A defensive stroke played from the forehand side. |
| Backhand Push | A defensive stroke played from the backhand side. |
| Service | The shot used to start a rally. |
| Topspin | Forward spin that makes the ball dip and move forward. |
| Backspin | Backward spin that can slow the ball after bouncing. |
| Drive | An attacking stroke played with speed and control. |
| Smash | A powerful attacking stroke used against a high ball. |
| Rally | The sequence of shots played between players. |
| Follow-through | The movement of the racquet after hitting the ball. |
Remember These Points
- Table tennis is a fast racquet game.
- A correct grip gives better control of the racquet.
- Shakehand and Penhold are important grips.
- Good footwork helps a player reach the ball quickly.
- Forehand Push and Backhand Push are defensive strokes.
- A legal service begins the rally.
- Topspin makes the ball move forward with forward spin.
- Backspin makes the ball spin backwards.
- Drives are attacking strokes with speed and control.
- Topspin strokes are useful for attacking and controlling the ball.
- Smash is a powerful stroke generally used against a high ball.
- Concentration, fair play and teamwork are important in sports.
- Regular practice improves skill and confidence.
Safety Rules for Table Tennis
- Warm up before playing.
- Listen carefully to the teacher.
- Use proper sports equipment.
- Keep enough space around the table.
- Do not run into another player’s path.
- Keep the playing area clean and dry.
- Do not throw the racquet or ball at others.
- Follow the rules of the activity.
- Drink enough water.
- Cool down after practice.
Unit 4 – Table Tennis at a Glance
Table Tennis: A fast racquet sport requiring quick reactions, coordination, speed, concentration and accuracy.
Grip: Shakehand and Penhold.
Footwork: Side-to-side, in-and-out, pivot, crossover and one-step movements.
Defence: Forehand Push and Backhand Push.
Service: Basic Service, Topspin Service and Backspin Service.
Attack: Forehand Drive, Backhand Drive, Forehand Topspin, Backhand Topspin and Smash.
Game: Use all the learned skills during rallies and try to reach five points.
Remember: Good technique + regular practice + concentration + fair play = better table tennis skills.
Practice important questions and revision exercises from this unit with this easy Class 8 Khel Yatra worksheet for unit 4 . It is useful for learning, revision, practice and exam preparation.
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