FREN

Table tennis tables

A bat, a ball, and the table is all yours.

Outdoor table tennis tables are about the easiest sports facility there is to use: all you need is a bat and a ball. You will find them in parks, squares, near schools and outside apartment blocks. Oukonjou helps you spot the free-access ones near you.

Also known as: outdoor ping pong table, public ping pong table.

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Overview

An outdoor table tennis table is built to stay outside all year round. It is often made of concrete or metal, with a rigid metal net that does not sag and cannot be carried off. Its size follows the sport's rules: the international federation (ITTF) specifies a table 2.74 × 1.525 m, with the playing surface 76 cm off the ground.

A good table is level, with a smooth, crack-free surface that gives a consistent bounce, and clear space all around so you can step back and move. Firm, clean ground, a bit of shade and a spot sheltered from the wind make games more enjoyable, because a table tennis ball is so light that it drifts easily outdoors.

Do not confuse these tables with teqball tables, which have a curved surface and are played with a football, no hands allowed: some have been installed in Brussels parks. On the Oukonjou map you will find free-access table tennis tables in France, Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Andorra and Monaco. You can also follow a town to get an email alert when a new table is listed there.

Where to find table tennis tables

57 table tennis tables listed in 28 towns.

By country

Best-equipped towns

Who it's for

SinglesOne against one, in games to 11 points. The basic format for improving your game.
DoublesTwo against two, hitting in turn. You have to keep moving to make room for your partner.
Round the worldEveryone circles the table and takes one shot each. Miss and you are out. Great for groups, from four players to many more.
Casual rallyingKnocking the ball back and forth without keeping score, just for fun or to warm up.
Family gamesTable tennis suits almost any age. Children can start by standing closer to the table and playing slow balls.
Club players' practiceClub players use outdoor tables in summer to work on consistency between indoor sessions.

Rules of the game

The official rules are set by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF). Outdoors, people play them in a relaxed way, but the basics are simple.

  • The official table is 2.74 × 1.525 m, with its playing surface 76 cm off the ground.
  • A game is played to 11 points. You need a lead of at least 2 points to win it.
  • The serve passes to the other player every 2 points.
  • To serve, toss the ball up from your open palm, then hit it so it bounces once on your side before crossing the net.
  • If the serve touches the net and then lands on the correct side, it is a let and is replayed.
  • During a rally, the ball must bounce once on your opponent's side. You may not hit it before it has bounced on yours.
  • Touching the table with your free hand during a rally loses the point.
  • In doubles, the serve goes from the right half of the table to the opponents' right half, and partners hit the ball in turn.
  • A match is played over a number of games you agree on before you start.

Safety and gear

  • Concrete tables have hard edges: take care when leaning in for a short ball, and watch young children running around.
  • Do not sit or stand on the table, and do not lean on the metal net.
  • After rain, the ground around the table can be slippery, especially under fallen leaves. Wipe the table down and check your footing.
  • Before chasing a ball that rolls away, look around you, particularly near a cycle path or a road.
  • Wear trainers that hold your feet well: the movements are short but quick.
  • In summer, pick a table in the shade or play early and late, and keep water within reach.

Regulations

EuropeITTF rules

The International Table Tennis Federation sets the table dimensions, the scoring and the service rules. A park table does not need to be approved for competition, but these rules are the reference for play.

EuropeBelgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg: local rules

Use of public tables is governed by the local council or the site manager, who may set opening hours, particularly in parks that close at night. The posted notice is the reference.

FranceFacility census (Article L.312-2 of the French Sports Code)

Every owner of a sports facility must declare it to the authorities so it can be recorded. These declarations feed the Data ES database, one of Oukonjou's sources.

FranceNoise and opening hours

Under the French Public Health Code (Article R.1336-5), no noise may disturb the peace of the neighbourhood through its duration, repetition or intensity. The mayor can set opening hours by municipal order for facilities close to homes.

AndorraAndorra: follow the posted rules

Go by the rules displayed near the table or at the park entrance, often in Catalan, the country's official language.

MonacoMonaco: follow the posted rules

Access and conditions of use are those shown on site by the site manager.

European standards are voluntary, but they are the reference when an accident happens. The rules posted on site always come first.

Etiquette

  • When others are waiting, play a game or two, then suggest round the world or hand over the table.
  • Pick up broken balls and wrappers when you leave.
  • In the evening, near flats, keep the noise down: the click of the ball and the shouts carry a long way.
  • Do not leave bags or drinks on the table while others are playing.
  • When a ball strays to another table, throw it back by hand between rallies.
  • Invite children or beginners who are watching to have a rally.

Glossary

Bat
The racket used in table tennis, also called a paddle, especially in North America.
Forehand
A shot played on the same side as the hand holding the bat.
Backhand
A shot played on the opposite side to the hand holding the bat.
Topspin
A shot that gives the ball forward spin. It dips onto the table and kicks forward after the bounce.
Backspin
A shot that gives the ball backward spin. It slows after the bounce and tends to drop into the net on the return. Also called chop.
Smash
A powerful shot on a high ball, to finish the point.
Let
A serve that clips the net and lands on the correct side. It is replayed.
Rubber
The rubber sheet glued to each face of the bat. Smooth or pimpled, it determines grip and spin.
Did you know?

In table tennis, a game is won at 11 points with a 2-point lead, and the serve changes every 2 points. Short games like that are perfect for rotating players around a park table.

What to bring

  • Two table tennis bats
  • Box of outdoor balls
  • Portable clip-on net
  • Protective bat case
  • Water bottle

FAQ

Is the table free to use?

Yes, the tables listed as free-access on Oukonjou cost nothing and need no booking. Just bring bats and balls.

Is there a net?

Most outdoor tables have a fixed net, often made of metal. On some older tables it is missing or damaged, so a portable clip-on net can come in handy.

Which balls should I use outdoors?

Ordinary recreational balls will do. Some slightly tougher models are designed for outdoor play. Bring several: they blow away and get crushed easily.

Can I play when it is windy?

Yes, but the ball is so light that it drifts a lot. In strong wind, look for a table sheltered by a wall or trees.

How many people can play at one table?

Two for singles, four for doubles, and as many as you like for round the world, where everyone takes a shot in turn as they circle the table.

A table is missing from the map or broken. What should I do?

If it is missing, suggest it on the “Suggest a facility” page: every suggestion is checked before it is published. In France, the local council that owns it can also declare it in the official Data ES database at equipements.sports.gouv.fr. Elsewhere, you can add it to OpenStreetMap. For a damaged table, let the local council know.