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When you can't get outside for a game of tennis, a game of table tennis or ping pong is the next best thing. Understanding all of the dynamics of ping pong can make you love the game even more.Understanding all of the dynamics of ping pong can make you the love game even more. And sometimes, it is not just about the techniques that you have to learn here.
For instance, there's a need for you to be aware of the appropriate ping pong table size. After all, you cannot hone your skills if you cannot play on the appropriate platform.
This time, we are going to talk about this particular matter. Let's get started!
What's The Official Ping Pong Table Dimensions?
Not all table tennis tables out there are built with the same sizes. A good example of that is those compact units, which in a sense, are designed for spaces with limited interior space.
However, if we are going to look at the standard table size for ping pong tables, things can get specific. There's no deviating to the measurements of ping pong tables that are used on tournaments and official matches.
So, what're the correct dimensions?
- Well, according to the International Table Tennis Federation, the standard size of ping pong tables should be 9.0 ft (length) x 5.0 ft (width) x 2.5 ft (height). If we are going to convert that in centimeters, that would be 274 cm (length) x 152.5 cm (width) x 76 cm (height).
- When folded, the size of the table should be 5.0 ft (length) x 1.8 ft (width) x 5.47 ft (height).
The next time that you buy a ping pong table, make sure that these following specifications are met. Of course, don't push things if your indoor space is not enough to cater to these standard-size tables.
If that's your predicament, then I recommend that you get a compact unit. Otherwise, you should always go with ping pong tables that have the “correct” size.
To make things easier for you, here are the top 12 rated table tennis table reviews for indoor & outdoor. Better check it out.
Other Ping Pong Table Parameters
Aside from the size, there are some other aspects of a ping pong table that you have to know.
Table Top
The first one is the tabletop. Specifically, the tabletop should be 76 cm above the ground. Furthermore, it is imperative that is flat and smooth.
Any signs of flaws on its surface mean that the table is defective or damaged, and should not be used in the first place.
Also, it is crucial that the table can generate a bounce of 23 cm high when the ball trajectory came from a height of around 30 cm. Of course, a table cannot achieve this feat if it is not made from the right kind of material.
A tabletop has to be made with either plastic, plywood, particleboard, concrete, plastic, metal, or fiberglass. These are the ones that can produce consistent ball bounces.
Meanwhile, the thickness of the table top should be range from 12 mm to 30 mm (0.47 inches to 1.2 inches). However, it is considered that the best thickness for a tabletop is 1 inch.
The idea here is that the tabletop should be thick enough to produce the ideal kind of ball bounce. Whenever a ping pong table is used in tournaments, the only material allowed for the tabletop is wood or derivatives of such kind of material.
Table Markings and Net
You should also pick a table that has a dark paint. It should be dark enough so that the ball will contrast on it.
There should be a white line that surrounds the edges of the table surface. Specifically, the line should have a thickness of 2 cm.
When installing a net-and-post system, the net should be able to cover the middle of the table entirely. Needless to say, the width of the net should be at least 5 feet.
Once the net and posts are installed, the table is already divided into two equal parts. Each half has a size of approximately 4.5 feet.
Conclusion
These are the dimensions that you need to keep in mind whenever you are buying a ping pong table. A table is playable when such requirements are present.
If you fully want to enjoy the game, all your gears and equipment must be on par with the standard specifications. You cannot unleash your full potential if the table or racket you use is shabby, right?
In fact, ever the things you wear matter. For ping pong, a pair of high-quality training shoes is highly recommended!
That's it for now. If you have questions, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.
