![]() For a huge number of initial conditions, the effect on successful strokes was studied. Modifications in technique, tactics, strength, and fitness were not considered in this analysis. ![]() A database was created to quantify the influence of such changes. ![]() In this work, the impact of larger balls or higher nets on table tennis trajectories was studied using computer simulations. These tests are biased, because the players use the technique optimized for the existing situation (ball size, ball weight, and net height) and modifications needed for the new situation take too long for the players to be automatized in their training to be considered. Rather short and limited tests with some players are evaluated. Usually, an empirical approach is followed to study the effect of such changes on the players and the game. The needs for larger exertion of forces amplify possible technical mistakes, because the individual movement execution gets extended. For the larger ball, only the use of the forearm is no longer sufficient for spin, as was the case for the 38-mm ball. In addition, the wrist has to be used more effectively to produce spin. A stronger athletic body allows more pronounced use of the legs producing larger forces on the ball, which are needed to compensate for the size increase. In modern table tennis, the forces for a stroke are created not only by the arms but also support from the whole body. Because of the modified technique, the fitness of the individual player got more important. However, the larger ball had practically no impact on the characteristics of table tennis, because larger exertions of forces by the players compensated for the effects of the size increase. The larger 40-mm ball results in a velocity and spin reduction of about 5% to 10%. This creates a larger inertial moment and reduces the spin. The mass distribution of the larger ball is shifted further away from the center compared with the 38 mm ball. It has a larger air drag due to its larger cross-sectional area reducing the maximum velocities. The 40-mm ball played today is 2 mm larger and 0.2 g heavier than the 38-mm ball used before.
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