Kinematic differences between shakehand and pen-hold grips in executing backhand twist-drive in table tennis.

This study sought to determine the kinematic differences between the pen-hold and shakehand grip in executing the backhand twist-drive technique in table tennis by analysing biomechanical characteristics of pen-hold and shakehand grip. A comparative experimental design was used for the study. Five table tennis players participated in the study of which two were division I players and three were division II. Characteristic body mechanics and swing trajectory were examined to investigate the biomechanical differences and possible effects on the ball. No significant relationship was found between the performance level and the execution of the backhand twist-drive. However, the highest velocity of pen-hold grip was greater than the shakehand. Again, pen-hold used longer time in the swing after hitting the ball than the shakehand. The pen-hold had more leftward movement than the shakehand at the early stage …