The slow backhand topspin is the first to be taught in the series of the backhand topspins. This stroke is mostly used for the return of long serves and balls with backspin like the forehand or backhand push and chop.

The best position for the execution of this stroke is from the left backside of the table and at a distance of 50-100cm (19.7-39.4in). The feet are in the same straight line, at a distance slightly greater than a shoulders' width apart, and parallel to the edge of the table*. The feet point forwards while the knees are bent at a 120° angle. The torso bends slightly forwards. As the ball approaches after its bounce on the table, the racket descends approximately to knee height at an angle such that the backhand side of the racket is parallel to the floor. The wrist is angled so that the racket points to the left. The forearm forms a 140°-160° angle with the arm. The body is balanced between the two feet, while the torso bends forward.The movement of the arm, which moves in a forward clockwise trajectory, starts from this position. The top side of the racket touches the ball at the beginning of its descend. At the end of the movement the hand is in front and to the right of the body approximately at the eye level. At the moment of the stroke the body moves upwards with the help of the legs. The left hand is bent and plays a balancing role.

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

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• Table tennis technique - Slow forehand topspin
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