Grip
NCERT Class 8 Physical Education and Well Being Chapter 32: Grip (Pages 94–96)
Summary of Grip
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Grip at a Glance
CBSE
Class 8
Physical Education and Well Being
Khel Yatra
32
94–96
6 study resources
Grip Summary
In this chapter, we learn about the importance of grip in racquet sports, especially table tennis. A good grip is essential for striking the ball effectively and improving overall skill. First, we explore the Shakehand Grip, which is widely recognized and used globally. To hold the racquet with this grip, you begin by shaking hands with the racquet, ensuring that your palm securely cradles it. Your thumb and index finger should align with the straight edge of the rubber, while the other three fingers wrap comfortably around the handle. This grip allows for better control and power when playing. Next, we discuss the Penhold Grip, which involves holding the racquet as if you were using a pen. With this grip, your thumb and index finger grasp the handle near the blade, while the remaining fingers rest at the back of the blade. There are two versions of the Penhold Grip: the Chinese Grip and the Japanese Grip. Although both are effective, the Shakehand Grip is more commonly adopted in competitions today. We also engage in lead-up activities to strengthen our grip techniques. For instance, we practice tapping the ball on the racquet using both forehand and backhand sides. This activity not only enhances our gripping skills but also fosters hand-eye coordination, a vital aspect of sports performance. Tapping while walking or running introduces a fun element to our training and helps improve our stability and balance. During this chapter, it’s important for teachers to monitor students’ coordination abilities as they practice. Discussions about the muscles and joints activated when using the grip can make the learning experience more enriching. Understanding how our body works when we strike the ball can lead to better form and technique. Finally, we take note of the versatility of table tennis as a sport enjoyed both individually and in teams, with its presence in tournaments globally, such as the New Swaythling Cup and the Olympic patterns. This chapter provides a foundational understanding of grips, preparing students for further skills development in table tennis.
