Having recently opened a table tennis facility in Sterling, Virginia I have lost an amazing 18lbs in 7 weeks. I am stronger, faster and fitter than I have been in over 15+ years as a direct result of playing table tennis 5-6 days a week.

Worldwide millions of people play table tennis, and with good reason. It is entertaining, fun, fast and has great health benefits as well. Because of the low risk of injury table tennis can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. Wh…en played regularly it improves reflexes, hand-eye coordination and balance, while toning and strengthening the core muscles, upper and lower body. It’s great for working up a sweat and increasing your heart rate, thus helping to keep your heart strong and healthy. Not only is it a good cardiovascular exercise, it is also a great aerobic workout. When running about the table your heart rate increases and your body’s requirement for oxygen becomes much higher, therefore you breath heavier, faster and deeper, which increases lung capacity in addition to how efficiently your lungs use oxygen.

As well as being a fantastic physical work out, table tennis is also a great mental work out. You have to plan strategies and decide what spin to put on the ball, whilst trying to stay one step ahead of your opponent and react to the shots they are playing all at the same time. Decisions have to be made in split seconds, this increases concentration levels, short term memory and decision making ability. All this mental exercise boosts hormone levels and keeps the brain young, which can slow the progress of cognitive decline that occurs with ageing. It is also a sport that is good for social bonding, with its friendly but competitive nature, it can be enjoyed at your local club where you can meet with new people and form lasting friendships. It can also be played at home as a great way to spend more quality time together and bring the family closer.

We have daytime beginner group classes in Sterling, VA on Thursday’s from 10.30am to 12pm and Sunday’s from 2.00pm to 3.30pm. Email michael@smashtt.com for more information and to register