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Para table tennis is a version of table tennis adapted for athletes with various physical impairments. It is governed by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) and follows similar rules to able-bodied table tennis, with some modifications to accommodate the specific needs of the athletes.

WA para teams at the 2024 Australian Nationals

While the rules are essentially the same for able-bodied and para table tennis, the techniques and strategies used may vary significantly depending on the classification and the type of impairment. For example, wheelchair players often have unique approaches to serve, return, and maneuvering around the table.

Differences from Able-Bodied Table Tennis

• Classification System: Unlike able-bodied table tennis, para table tennis uses a classification system to level the playing field among athletes with different types and degrees of impairments.
• Rules Adjustments: There are slight modifications in some rules to accommodate the needs of athletes, such as allowances for alternate ways to hold and toss the ball when serving.
• Equipment Modifications: Wheelchair players may use wheelchairs designed specifically for the sport. Standing players may use prosthetics or other aids as necessary.

Classifications

Para table tennis players are classified based on their physical impairments to ensure fair competition. The classifications range from 1 to 11:

• Classes 1-5: For wheelchair athletes, with class 1 being the most severely impaired.
• Classes 6-10: For standing athletes, with class 6 being the most severely impaired.
• Class 11: For athletes with intellectual impairments.

Major Tournaments

• Paralympic Games: The most prestigious event in para table tennis, held every four years. Features athletes from various classifications competing for gold, silver, and bronze medals.
• ITTF Para Table Tennis World Championships: Held every two years. Includes singles, doubles, and team events across multiple classifications.
• Commonwealth Games: Competitions in a few classes are included on the table tennis program

Similar Sports

• Table Tennis (also called Ping Pong) — a racket sport played with small paddles and a lightweight ball on a rectangular table with a net in the middle.
• Swish — a version of table tennis for blind athletes.
• Tennis (Lawn) — players use a racket to hit a ball over a net.

Related Pages

• Sports for the Disabled
• Table tennis at the Paralympics
• Table Tennis Type Sports
• Complete list of sports
• The Encyclopedia of Sports — a list of every sport from around the world.

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