The forehand flick is an offensive stroke usually used to counter serves and other strokes like the drop shot, the backhand or forehand push. It is played to the side, the center or the corner of the table. The choice depends on the player's game style and the opponent's weak points. For example, the diagonal forehand flick can be used to force the opponent out of his position thus preparing the ground for the next stroke, which could be a forehand topspin or a smash. The forehand flick is a difficult stroke, however, because it requires a kinetic ability and sufficient mobility of the wrist.

The basic stance for the execution of the forehand flick is the same as the ready stance previously described. When the opponent plays a forehand side serve the player moves diagonally moving his right foot to approach the ball*. The right foot points toward the point where the racket will contact the ball. The right arm movement and the movement of the left leg are simultaneous.

As the racket moves forwards and diagonally to hit the ball, the body weight falls forwards and on the right leg. At this point, the arm forms a 150°-160° angle with the elbow. The racket contacts the top of the ball when the ball reaches its summit after it bounces. The racket is moved primarily with the wrist and to a lesser extent with the help of the elbow. The left arm is bent for balancing reasons. The direction of the ball from the forehand flick can change even at the last moment if the angle formed by the wrist and the forearm changes. In this way the player can deceive his opponent, taking him out of his position.

* The left leg should not overstretch because the body balance can be lost during the stroke. On the other side if the left leg is placed far from the right, the player will have difficulty to return to the ready stance to do the next stroke.

Source: Table Tennis: From A to Z e-book

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