Ping Pong

As humans, we all have an innate desire to play. Engaging in play can reduce stress, increase overall health and Wellness, improve brain function, and improve social skills. Among children, play is particularly beneficial, as it allows them to express themselves and begin to understand basic rules of socialization. An individual can engage in play alone or with several companions, in any type of weather, in both competitive and cooperative settings. One activity that allows for this freedom is Ping Pong.

Ping Pong, also referred to as Table Tennis, is an extremely versatile mode of play, as it can be engaged in by as few as one person and as many as four at a given time. In this regard, Ping Pong provides a unique and valuable form of play. In addition, playing Ping Pong is not dependent upon weather or sunshine. Finally, Ping Pong can serve as both a competitive and cooperative activity.

Originally developed in England in the 1880s, Ping Pong has become a popular activity worldwide. During play, participants hit a small ball with lightweight paddles on a table separated by a net. At its inception, Ping Pong was developed as an indoor alternative to tennis. Thus, it allowed people to play at any time and during any weather. Play is often used as a form of exercise and [Page 482]stress relief. However, too often play can be dependent upon favorable weather conditions. Unfortunately, often the same weather that prevents us from playing can heighten our levels of stress and unhappiness. This poses a regrettable situation in which individuals who are negatively affected by adverse weather conditions are unable to engage in stress relieving play because of the weather. Auspiciously, Ping Pong provides the perfect play opportunity for those situations and has served as a respite for people during rainy or wintery months.

Another unique characteristic of Ping Pong is the variability of participants it can support. Anywhere from one to four people can participate in Ping Pong at one time, allowing participants to experience the benefits of both individual and group play. Popularized by Tom Hanks in the film Forrest Gump, Ping Pong can be played alone by lifting one side of the table and using it as a wall. Individual play can relieve stress, increase brain function, enhance confidence, and improve self-image. Group play, in addition to those benefits, can improve social functioning.

Ping Pong can be played as a doubles event with two teams of two competing against each other. This style of play can provide a forum for the development of teamwork, communication, and social skills. While often used as a form of competition, Ping Pong can also serve as a cooperative form of play. Rather than competing for points as is traditionally done, players can use Ping Pong as a test of their cooperation. Counting the number of consecutive shots successfully completed can serve as a form of cooperative play. With its accessibility and flexibility Ping Pong is a unique and valuable form of play, which can be used to build teamwork, health, and confidence and relieve stress.

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