ITTF requirements for table tennis equipment

Each characteristic of a tennis table - and there are many of them - is important for the quality of the game. This type of sports equipment is in very high demand today. Such popularity is due to nothing other than the ease of playing ping-pong and the large number of positive emotions that can be obtained by getting carried away by it. Among other things, table tennis is a sport in which serious competitions are held at the world level.

Let's see what characteristics amateur and professional tennis tables may have:

• Dimensions.
• Weight.
• Class.
• Color.
• Transportation system.
• Folding system.
• The material from which the countertop is made, etc.

Below we will look at each of the above options in more detail.

What are the dimensions of a standard tennis table?

There are three main variations in the size of the device in question:

• A standard tennis table is a fairly large structure, which, however, can be transported relatively quickly and easily if there is a special modern folding system. This device is 76 centimeters high, 274 centimeters long, and 152.5 centimeters wide.
• Mini tennis table is usually used by children. Its parameters are: length 136 cm, width 76 cm, height 65 cm.
• There is also a middle option (midi tables). Their dimensions are 76x105x186 cm - height, width, length, respectively.

It is quite possible to order a table according to individual sizes, but you will still need to find a company for this. And, of course, the cost of such a design will be much higher than the prices set for standard products.

Custom table tennis table sizes

But quite often there are situations when you have to make a countertop of non-standard sizes. There may be several reasons for this:

1. A small room in which the owner would like to place a playing area: then the dimensions of the tabletop are reduced, but it is advisable to maintain its proportions.
2. The design of the room requires a table not only of other sizes, but sometimes also of other shapes. Today in the world you can find the most bizarre forms of countertops.
3. The tennis seat is organized on another type of furniture, for example, a kitchen or desk, while the dimensions of the tabletop are determined by their dimensions.
4. Saving material and minimizing costs. It is necessary to make a tabletop from what is available, for example, an OSB board, and then its dimensions change significantly.

Tennis table weight

The weight of a tennis table is determined, as you can quite easily guess, by the mass of materials from which it is made. To make the classification that we present below clearer, we explain in advance: professional tables have more weight due to the fact that their tabletops are thicker than their counterparts. In addition, the product units in question must have high stability - this predetermines the use of a durable, serious supporting structure. So:

• The weight of a professional table varies between 100-160 kg.
• Club models can weigh about 70-110 kg.
• Amateur tennis tables weigh 50-70 kg.

But don't be afraid of the above numbers. Manufacturers have taken care of user comfort - most modern models have a convenient assembly/disassembly and transportation system. Therefore, even the largest table can be handled by only 1 person.

Dimensions of mini tennis tables

The standard size of a children's tennis table is 1220 x 2440 mm. Often an adult tabletop with adjustable legs is used for games. This option allows you to adjust the size correctly as the child grows older. To avoid injury to players, the standards of the mini-table and the traditional model require the support structure to be deepened inward from the edges by 20–30 cm. If the product is mounted indoors, for convenience, the following room dimensions are provided: 14 x 7 x 5 m (length/width/height ).

To prevent tennis from turning into torture, the tabletop must be perfectly flat. In professional tournaments, two colors of the playing surface are allowed: an aggressive blue tint and a calming green tint. Lovers can afford an expanded range, ranging from brown to gray. It is better if the tabletop is matte and does not give glare. The glossy analogue is poorly suited for competitions; it is usually used for presentations or exhibitions.

Tennis table parameters: class

Some parameters of a tennis table together determine the class of the structure. Considering this category of goods from this angle allows you not only to purchase the right model, but also not to overpay out of ignorance when it comes to purchasing goods for home, non-professional use.

So, we can distinguish three classes of standard tennis tables:

• The first one is professional. Such products weigh about 100-160 kg and have a relatively thick tabletop of 25-30 mm. The edge of the lid is necessarily equipped with an edging. The parameters of a tennis table of this class must comply with the standards set by the ITTF. Such models are usually used in competitions.
• The second is club (semi-professional or training). The average weight of models in this class is 70-110 kg. The thickness of the playing surface varies between 19-22 mm. Such models are widely used by experienced amateurs, as well as professionals during training between championships. Often tables of this class can be found in sports and entertainment establishments.
• The third class is amateur. The tabletops of these products have a thickness of 16-19 mm. These products rarely weigh more than 50-70 kg. Easy and quick to assemble and relatively easy to transport. Such products are recommended for home amateur use.

The manufacturer increases the durability and reliability of the tennis table by equipping it with steel edges.

Optional equipment

1. Net

Wicker net for tennis table is a standard sports equipment. Specific dimensions have been established for it:

• Length/height: 183 x 15.25 cm, height
• Cell size: from 1.3 to 1.5 cm.

A mesh made of cotton cords is an option for playing indoors. It is better to complement outdoor tables with a mesh made of metal wire or synthetic material. Plastic or metal alloy mesh fasteners may be included in the kit or sold separately. Depending on how often you have to install the mesh, you can choose one of the types of fasteners:

• Screw – securely screwed to the tabletop. There are screw-mount models with thick posts that can withstand strong winds and precipitation.
• Clip-on – quickly attached to the tabletop using a latch. Relevant if you need to frequently remove/put on the mesh.

The mesh color can be any. But the top edge of the tennis net, 1.5 cm high, is always painted white. In this part there is a strong braided cord that regulates the level of tension of the equipment.

Stiga “Match” mesh with fastening (, China)
Assembled size	183 * 15.25 cm
Material	Nylon/ steel
Color	blue
Weight	734 g
Nylon mesh with adjustable tension. Traditional screw fastening. Suitable for any field. Can be used for playing outdoors and indoors. ITTF approved. Read also:  5 ways to decorate a mirror in the hallway with your own hands
Price:	from 950 rub.

1. Rackets

Ping-pong equipment, like tables, belongs to a certain class. When purchasing, you should focus on the player’s experience, age and how often the racket will be used to play.

The information on the packaging (in the instructions) indicates what type of rackets they are:

• For newbies. Amateur, children's version. Informationally indicated:

— speed and torsion value — up to 50%;

— control — up to 100%.

• Training (semi-professional). For non-professional players with extensive experience, students of sports schools, classes in fitness centers. Options:

— torsion and speed — up to 70%

— control is reduced to 90%.

• Professional. Indicators:

— torsion and speed – 100%

— control – 90%.

Donic Top Teams 600 Racket Manufacturer: DONIC (Germany)
Overlay	3* 1.8 mm
Material	Wood Basic (5B)
Color	colorful
Weight	0.165 kg
A racket for experienced amateurs and professionals. Class: training (semi-professional) Five-layer base. Handle with vibration damping technology. Shock-absorbing AVS system: 2 special soft layers in the racket handle Options: speed: 80 rotation: 80 control: 70. ITTF approved. Read also:  What is used to fill a tabletop made from cut wood?
Price:	from 600 rub

Tennis table color

The color of the tennis table may vary. First of all, professional class products stand out. The ITTF allows those models in which the lid of a standard tennis table is green or blue and must be matte so that glare does not disturb the players.

As for amateur and training products, everything is a little simpler. Firstly, they can have either a glossy or matte surface. More often, the second option is found - the first is preferable for exhibition halls, where shine should attract attention. The covering of tennis tables of the considered classes can be of different colors (this is especially true for all-weather products): gray, green, brown, blue, etc.

Grid layout and height

The table tennis table must have appropriate markings. A white line 20 mm wide is applied along each perimeter edge on the matte surface. The vertical grid divides the tabletop into two fields exactly in the middle. For doubles games, each half of the table is divided strictly in half by a central line 30 mm wide (parallel to the side borders).

The width of the mesh should correspond to the same parameter as the tabletop, plus 150 mm on each side. The height of the product is at least 15.25 cm from the top of the table, the bottom practically touches the playing surface. The stock in question has a white top edge that is 15mm high. The color of the main part of the accessory can be any. Materials used: artificial fibers, cotton, metal.

Most budget amateur tennis tables are equipped with built-in nets. To replace them, you will need the help of a specialist. It is possible to change only the blade without touching the fastenings. The clamps are made of metal or plastic with a protective coating.

There are two types of mesh fastenings: a screw version with a twisting mechanism and a clip latch. To extend the service life of the product, it is recommended to loosen it after each competition. The correctly selected tension load during the game is evidenced by the confident rebound of the ball from the canvas.

Tennis table design: folding and transport systems

The design of the tennis table of the modern model range allows it to be easily transported and folded even by 1 person. Moreover, you can find systems that can be easily operated even with one hand. Special clamps allow you to secure the position of the product both unfolded and folded.

The wheels are made of high-quality materials, which makes it possible not to worry that after a couple of years they will fail.

How to make a table yourself?

Since their cost in stores is quite high, many are interested in how to make a tennis table with their own hands. There is nothing complicated about it! The main thing is to purchase material for the countertop, and everything else can be done from improvised materials. For this you will need:

• blueprints;
• plywood, chipboard, LMDF or any other smooth and thick material for the countertop;
• self-tapping screws;
• brackets for attaching the base to the tabletop;
• fastenings for table legs;
• bolts for fastening the legs;
• edged timber or other material for legs;
• putty;
• dye;
• wood antiseptic;
• hacksaw or jigsaw;
• drill.

Tennis table material

The material for a tennis table should be environmentally friendly, harmless to users, durable and guarantee a good rebound of the game ball. The quality of the product as a whole, as well as its individual elements, must be confirmed by certificates, which the client can freely obtain from the distributor.

The durability and reliability of a tennis table, as a rule, is ensured by materials such as:

• Melamine.
• Plastic.
• Aluminum.
• Chipboard/MDF/LDSP.
• Waterproof plywood.
• Steel and others

If you want to get a high-quality and practical ping-pong table, call ZonaSporta. Our online store is a profitable place to purchase various categories of sports equipment.

Making your own table

Many people like to play table tennis, but not everyone has the opportunity to purchase a professional table for this exciting game. Yes, there is no need for this. You can try making a tennis table with your own hands.

The product can be stationary or assembled. The size of the table tennis table is 760 mm high from the floor level. It must stand on a hard surface, have a flat surface, and there must be free space around it.

Required materials and tools

Before work, you need to decide where the product will be located and what its dimensions will be. Prepare materials and tools in advance.

You will need:

• sanded plywood (2 sheets, 1525 x 1525 mm, 12 mm thick or more);
• edged timber (5 pieces, 50 x 50 x 300 mm);
• metal brackets for attaching legs (4 pieces);
• self-tapping screws (5 x 89 mm - 38 pieces, 3.5 x 49 mm - 45 pieces);
• bolts for connecting brackets with legs - 4 pieces;
• antiseptic for treating wooden surfaces;
• wood putty;
• green and white spray paint;
• hacksaw;
• drill;
• welding machine;
• tools for applying primer and paint.

Plywood is sold in the required width; you only have to adjust it in length.

Blueprints

The product must comply with the parameters, otherwise it will be inconvenient to play. It is necessary to prepare not only materials, tools, but also drawings. The drawings indicate everything down to the smallest detail, even the mesh size.

The drawings are made clear and understandable.

Assembly steps

Before you finally assemble the structure, you need to prepare all the parts.

If the product involves a removable tabletop, then special brackets will be required that will act as fastenings and ensure quick disassembly of the table.

You need to make holes in the brackets for self-tapping screws.

For a plywood tabletop you will need two sheets of 1525 x 1525 mm. Cut 155 mm from each sheet. The junction of two plywood sheets will be strictly under the mesh.

Treat the cut timber with an antiseptic. Dry it.

To avoid confusion of elements, they must be numbered.

Once all the parts are ready, you can begin assembly.

Step 1. Mark the timber and assemble the frame using self-tapping screws.

Step 2. Screw metal brackets to the corners to strengthen the frame.

Step 3. Fit the legs to the fasteners, remove excess wood. The matching of the leg and the mounting socket is very important.

Step 4. Place the beam in the socket and screw it to the bracket. To do this, use bolts.

Step 5. Screw 4 beams to create a frame.

Step 6. Attach the tabletop to the frame using self-tapping screws. Drill holes, attach the lid to the frame and twist.

Step 7. Wipe the surface of the countertop thoroughly with a cloth. Apply a layer of putty to a clean surface. Let dry thoroughly.

Step 8. Paint the tabletop in two layers. The first layer must dry, only then apply the second layer.

You need to correctly calculate the length of the beams that will be under the tabletop. In order to prevent deformation of the tabletop, the bars must be made shorter than the length of the playing surface.

Table layout

After the lid of the product has dried well, you need to apply a special marking 2 cm wide. It is located in the middle of the product and parallel to each edge. Use masking tape to mark the boundaries of the markings. For application use white spray paint.

How to make a folding ping pong table

There is a sport close to table tennis - ping pong. There are sports federations for ping pong. The main difference is the use of rackets with hard rubbers.

Folding ping pong tables are suitable for playing indoors, while stationary ones are suitable for playing outdoors. A classic table will have standard dimensions, just like for table tennis. If the area of ​​space does not allow you to accommodate a product of this size, then it can be made smaller. For teenagers, the height of the product can be 700 mm. A mini-stol for playing can even be 110 x 61 mm in size and have a maximum weight of 17 kg.

Many people would like to throw a ball at home, so folding structures are in great demand. The roll-out folding table makes it possible to perform different ping-pong exercises alone. When one half of the tabletop is raised, it plays the role of a bumper shield.

The mechanisms of folding products are complex, but you can create a homemade ping pong machine. When folded, the tabletop halves can be secured with detachable brackets.

You need to start work with a drawing and preparation of parts.

The drawing must indicate the dimensions of each part:

1. The tabletop can be made of boards or plywood.
2. To create a frame, it is better to use steel corners.
3. In order for the frames to be rigid, they are strengthened with transverse corners.
4. It is necessary to make holes on the side of the frames for attaching the legs and struts of the platform.
5. Carts require boards up to 25 mm thick. For struts - up to 20 mm thick, 60 mm wide.
6. For the legs, 80x20 mm boards are required; for their fastening it is better to use bolts with wing nuts.

This will allow you to fold the product if necessary.

You can make a folding table on wheels.

It is better to number all the parts and elements on the blanks so as not to confuse them.

The necessary furniture casters can be purchased at a specialized store.

Having prepared all the material, you can start working.

Step 1. Make holes for the bolts on the legs.

Step 2. Strengthen the upper parts of the legs with metal plates.

Step 3. Attach bushings to the holes for a stronger fixation.

Step 4: Level the playing surface. Install a nut under each leg.

Step 5. Fasten the legs in pairs using self-tapping screws.

Step 6. Install the countertop using self-tapping screws. It's better to mount it on the reverse side.

Step 7. Paint the countertop. Apply markings.

The roll-out folding simulator for outdoor play is ready for use.