Shakehand vs. penhold: which table tennis grip should you use?
There are two main ways to hold a table tennis paddle. Choosing the right one early saves a lot of retraining later.
Shakehand
You hold the paddle as if shaking hands with it. Your index finger rests along one edge of the rubber and your thumb along the other. Nearly all players outside East Asia use it.
- Pros: Forehand and backhand are both strong and easy to learn. Both sides of the paddle are used. Good reach on both wings.
- Cons: The transition area between forehand and backhand, around the hip, can be awkward at first.
Penhold
You pinch the handle between thumb and index finger like a pen. Variants include the traditional Chinese style and the Japanese/Korean style, which has a different handle shape.
- Pros: Very flexible wrist. Excellent close-to-table forehands and quick serves.
- Cons: Harder to build a reliable backhand. Fewer coaches teach it outside Asia.
Which should you use?
If you are new, start with shakehand. It is easier to learn, and almost every coach, club, and training video assumes it. If you already play penhold and are comfortable, stay with it. Whichever you choose, keep the grip relaxed. A death grip kills touch.
Finding a coach
If you want to learn penhold, say so when you contact a club. Not every coach teaches it. Our club directory lists where to start.
Published Oct 3, 2026.