The Effect of the Return Board Tool on Improving Backhand Topspin Skills in Table Tennis Athletes

This study aimed to examine the effect of the return board training tool on improving backhand topspin skills in table tennis athletes. The research employed a quasi-experimental method using a pretest–posttest control group design. A total of 42 table tennis athletes were selected as participants and divided into two groups: an experimental group (n = 21) that received return board training and a control group (n = 21) that followed conventional training methods. The training program was conducted over an eight-week period with a frequency of three sessions per week. The instrument used to measure backhand topspin skills was a standardized table tennis skills test focusing on accuracy and consistency. Data were analyzed using paired sample t-tests and independent sample t-tests at a significance level of 0.05. The results showed a significant improvement in backhand topspin skills in the experimental group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that the return board tool is an effective training aid for enhancing backhand topspin performance in table tennis athletes. Therefore, coaches are encouraged to incorporate return board training into regular practice programs to optimize technical skill development.