Are you looking for a new way to get active in the new year? Or a way to meet people through exercise? Table tennis could be the sport for you!

As we are all aware, regular movement at any stage of life brings physical benefits such as improved coordination and cardiovascular health – and playing table tennis for as little as 10 minutes can make a real difference.

It is also easy on the body as it is a non-contact sport and you can play within your own capabilities and limitations and still have a great game.

The benefits are not only physical, but mental and emotional too – playing table tennis can increase your energy, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost self-esteem. 

Table tennis aids complex thinking and increases the cortex (the part of the brain that shrinks with age). It can help people manage conditions such as Parkinson’s, or aid those who are recovering from a stroke.

And as one of the most inclusive sports around – anyone can play, irrespective of age, physical ability or gender – it’s easy for everyone to get involved.

Whether you prefer a gentle, social game or something a bit more competitive, there are countless locations where you can pick up a bat and get started.

From public tables placed all over the country as part of the Ping! initiative, to Ping Pong Parlours in shopping centres and hundreds of clubs, you are sure to find somewhere to give it a go.

To find your nearest table click on the big red button below.  

You can even play at home – a dining table can be easily converted into a table tennis table with a roll-net set. To get you started, you can find all the basic rules here.

If you’re over 50 and looking for a relaxed environment to enjoy table tennis, consider joining one of our Bat & Chat sessions, which include a coach and a mix of free play, fun and competitive games, and a break for socialising. 

The benefits of table tennis for mental health

Table tennis is more than just a sport; it is a valuable tool for promoting mental health and well-being. By recognising and embracing its benefits, individuals can use table tennis to improve their overall quality of life!

As depicted in the graphic, one in four of us will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in our lives. Physical activity is shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and the risk of depression, and table tennis, as a flexible sport suitable for everyone, is a fantastic way to enjoy these benefits. Here are five ways table tennis positively impacts mental health: 

Enhanced Mood: Table tennis can trigger the release of neurotransmitters associated with happiness and contentment, fostering enjoyment and upliftment. 

Stress Reduction: The game requires quick decision-making and reflexes, diverting attention from sources of worry and anxiety, leading to relaxation and calm. 

Anxiety Alleviation: The focused concentration needed during gameplay can quiet anxious thoughts, promoting mindfulness and emotional well-being. 

Cognitive Stimulation: Beyond its physical aspects, table tennis challenges cognitive functions like attention, memory, and problem-solving, improving mental acuity over time. 

Social Connection: Whether playing casually with friends or in organized events, table tennis promotes social interaction and a sense of belonging, creating a supportive network that enhances mental well-being. 

Why not get in touch with a friend and find somewhere to play some table tennis together?

Join us for HUGE table tennis tournaments!

Fancy watching some of the best players in the world competing against our home-grown talent? We’ve got just the events for you!

England is hosting two big WTT events in 2025 – the WTT Feeder Manchester from 24-27 April and the WTT Star Contender London at the iconic Copper Box in October. Beyond that, London is hosting the centenary World Team Championships in 2026!

That gives YOU the chance to watch the very best athletes in the world up close! Tickets are already selling fast for the WTT Feeder Manchester – don’t miss out, click below for more information.

PLUS, tickets for our flagship domestic event, the Mark Bates Ltd Senior National Championships, go on sale soon.

Keep an eye on our website for details and sign up to our newsletters at the foot of this page to ensure you get all the latest information about events and tickets.

Help us to deliver world-leading events

Volunteering in table tennis is a great way to experience the sport, while playing a key role in helping us deliver iconic events AND adding something different to your CV!

Some of our volunteers have gone on to play key roles at the Olympics and Paralympics – start your journey today and who knows where it will take you! Click below for more information and to let us know you’re interested in volunteering.