Focus on reflexes, footwork to make the optimal performance in the Olympics, Sathiyan says Gnanasekara

Indias Tokyo-tied men’s singles table tennis player Sathiyan Gnanasekaran has been using dyna vision devices for 30 minutes daily to improve his reflexes.

The 28-year-old Chennai player says he has used the electronic device more often since the first week of June to polish his reflexes and footwork.

I am on an electronic device for half an hour a day after training these days. The device gives accurate information about my reaction time and eye and hand coordination, says Sathiyan.

According to the national champion, he uses dyna vision after training to improve his skills when muscles are tired.

Dyna sightings are mounted on the wall at a certain height. Small, different colored lights flash on the board at different angles and at regular intervals. When the light flashes on the board, the athlete must touch it. The process has been recorded and provides details of reaction time as well as the athlete’s footwork, Sathiyan added.

Sathiyan said out-of-court training is vital to achieving the skills needed to compete in major competitions such as the Olympics.

Concentration is also a very important part of training. Table tennis is one of the fastest sports that requires precision to win quality matches. Out-of-court internships have helped me improve my skills over the past two years. I am pleased with my progress, says the country champion.

Fitness key for Sathiyan preparation

Physical fitness has also been an integral part of Sathian training for the past two years. But he has increased the volume to prepare for the Tokyo Olympics.

I have worked at the gym for 90 minutes alternately on days to prepare for the Tokyo Olympics. At the regional or state level, fitness doesn’t matter if the athlete has good skills. But physical fitness plays an important role in competing internationally. The fitness will improve strength training and the ability to maintain quality performance from the initial round to the finals, he said.

In preparation for the Tokyo Olympics, Sathiyan has focused on certain table tennis drills.

I don’t need the fitness of a marathon runner, but a fitness that would help me perform at an optimal level in table tennis competitions. I do explosive exercises like jumps and squats. The gym has also helped me stay unharmed despite heavy training, Sathiyan added.

To continue strength training exercises during the lockout caused by the pandemic, Sathiyan set up a small gym at home. After winning a bronze medal at the men’s team event at the Jakarta Asian Games in 2018, he has focused on the upcoming Olympics.

I am happy with my education. I look forward to showcasing my talent at the Japanese men’s singles event. Our competition starts on July 24th. We hope to leave the Indian team in the first round on July 17, he said.

Also read: Sharath Kamal in perfect shape both technically and mentally for the Tokyo Olympics, says Brother Rajath