When first picking up the sport of ping pong, some years of practice will be required before sufficient competency is achieved in the game. The whole process will require making mistakes and then learning from them. Making mistakes might not be everyone's cup of tea, but there is not one sport that offers the same scenario.

Making mistakes might be part and parcel of excelling in ping pong. This does not mean that one must repeat everything that others have experienced in a negative way. Learning from others’ missteps is just as important in achieving the results one hopes for when trying to become a good table tennis player. As many have said before, learning from history’s failure will teach us to prevent mistakes of our forefathers in today’s generation.

Some might not agree, and try everything within their power to avoid errors due to fear of embarrassment. But most people are not born with a paddle in their hands.

The most important qualities that are neccessary for doing well in table tennis is regular application of hard work and determination. Many players do not reach their maximum potential because of laziness or complacency. Avoid their mistakes and always remember to train hard each day, or on a regular basis.

It is imperative to practice discipline throughout the whole journey of learning ping pong. Laziness will quickly result in loss of standards and wasted effort. Everyone can practice discipline, but most do not and suffer as a consequence.

Good table tennis equipment is also crucial for any beginner in the sport. While high quality might mean more money spent, they often provide long run rewards. Do not try to save on quality shoes or paddles, as they can help prevent injuries. A table tennis table might be priced out of your budget, but save up and invest in one. It will provide an immediate training facility at your doorstep. If you are serious about increasing the depth of knowledge of the game, seek out a good ping pong DVD and study it as part of a training program.

Beginners’ enthusiam might lead them to want to fly before understanding how to walk, as a famous Chinese proverb might suggest. This normally manifests itself in beginners hoping to emulate top players' styles. Stick to the basics and master them first, before attempting technically demanding routines. Without sound fundamentals, one is more likely to fail, which is responsible for many giving up at an early stage.

Basic positive fundamentals are the secrets to enjoying great results when learning and playing ping pong. A few will result from errors we make, and the rest can be created through education resulting from past common mistakes. The end result is the same – everyone will become a better player and enjoy table tennis throughout life.