What You Need
A standard table tennis table is about 9 feet long and 5 feet wide, with a net across the middle. Beyond that, you only need a few things:
- Paddles (rackets) and balls, ideally with spares
- Plastic cups for the no-paddle games
- A scoreboard or a notepad
- A cleared area around the table so players can move safely
Standard Ping Pong Basics
A regular game is usually played to 11 points, and you win by two. Each player or team serves for a couple of points before the serve changes. A serve must bounce on the server’s side, then on the opponent’s side. In doubles, serves must go diagonally. If you are new, play casually first and learn the formal rules gradually.
Paddle Variations
Around the World
Players line up on one side of the table. The first hits the ball across and then runs around the net to the other side, where the next player returns it. Anyone who misses is out, and the last player left wins. It works for groups of four or more, and it is the classic party format.
Winner Stays (King of the Table)
Two players start and everyone else queues. Whoever loses a point or a game leaves, and the next player steps in. It keeps a crowd moving.
Doubles Rotation
In a doubles match, partners hit alternately. With a larger group, rotate teammates after each game so everyone plays with everyone.
Cooperative Rally
Instead of competing, the group tries to reach a target number of hits in a row. Raise the target as you improve.
Handicap Games
If skill levels differ, give the better player a handicap, such as using the non-dominant hand or starting with fewer points.
Games Without Paddles
These work for players who do not play ping pong, and they can be fun with kids. Always use balls and cups that are suitable for the age group.
- Cup Bounce: set cups at one end and try to bounce a ball into them. Keep score by cups sunk. This is often played with drinks in adult versions, but you can play it with plain water, or no drinks at all. For similar cup-and-ball games, see games like Beer Die.
- Blow Race: place a ball on one side and have players blow it across the table, racing to push it off the other end without using hands.
- Target Toss: put paper plates or marked squares on the table and assign points for each landing spot.
- Ball Relay: teams carry a ball on a spoon along the table edge.
Kid-Friendly Ideas
- Bounce-and-catch: one player bounces the ball on the table, and the other catches it with a cup.
- Color Targets: tape colored paper on the table, call a color, and have kids aim for it.
- Soft balls and low pace: use lighter, softer balls and shorter rallies for younger children.
For other ideas that suit children and teens, see our indoor games for youth guide.
Run a Mini Tournament
For a party, write names on slips, draw pairings, and play short games to 5 or 7 points. A bracket keeps things moving, and a “loser’s bracket” gives everyone more games. Consider a theme prize like a homemade trophy. A table also makes a good event for an office Olympics.
Tips and Safety
- Keep the floor clear of balls, since stepping on one can cause a slip.
- Set boundaries so players do not collide while chasing balls.
- Store paddles and balls in a bin, and keep a few spares.
- Agree on house rules before the games start, such as whether the net or edge balls count.
FAQ
What equipment do you need for ping pong? A table with a net, paddles and balls are the basics.
How do you serve? Toss the ball up and strike it so it bounces on your side first, then crosses the net to bounce on the opponent’s side.
What games can you play with ping pong balls? Cup toss, blow races and target games are popular options without a table.