Hardbat

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Hardbat table tennis is the classical table tennis playing style that existed prior to the advent of sponge rubber in the 1950-60s. The main difference between hardbat and modern table tennis lies in the racket used, which greatly affects the dynamics and strategy of the game. Hardbat rackets use short outward "pips" with no sponge, resulting in decreased speeds and reduced spin compared to rackets using sponge rubber. This results in longer rallies and an increased focus on the strategical aspects of the sport.

There has recently been a resurgence of hardbat play, with national championships disputed yearly in the United States.