Bruce Dias 
There are plenty of games that people don’t realize can be played professionally. For example, it’s common to see an air hockey table in an arcade, but did you know that air hockey is considered a professional sport? It seems strange, but there are plenty of nuances to what looks like a relatively simple game.
It’s why quite a few people take up the sport, as it’s the kind of thing you can deep dive into without necessarily having to put too much effort (outside of buying the equipment). In any case, if you want to get better at air hockey, here are a few best-practice methods to make the most out of your opportunities.
Going for Fantastic Air Hockey Equipment
Of course, the first step is to ensure that you get durable equipment that does the job. You’ll want to research the best air hockey tables, as there are plenty to choose from. You shouldn’t have too much trouble, as the market for air hockey tables isn’t too overwhelming, so a little bit of research goes a long way. The table should already have the necessary equipment (such as the mallets), though there are a few things to consider. You’ll want to ensure that you get a table with the proper brand recognition and that you are comfortable with the size and air blower performance (extremely important).
Once you’ve got the equipment you want, the hard part’s over. Honestly, everything else is smooth sailing, as you can start to learn how to play and get better at air hockey. The best part is you can practice with family and friends since air hockey’s so easy to get into.
Learning How to Implement Defensive Tactics
One of the best ways to learn to play air hockey is to implement defensive tactics as early as possible. You’ll want the defense to be your foundation, which is why it’s a good idea to place the mallet right in the middle of your goal, covering as much of it as possible. Once you’ve gotten used to the defensive position, you can start practicing how to make maneuvers from that angle. Keep in mind that air hockey tends to be a high-speed game, which means you’ll have to work on your reflexes if you intend to win.
Staying Relaxed No Matter How Intense it Gets
Last but certainly not least, one of the defining features of air hockey is how intense things get, especially when you’re up against a skilled player. As such, developing your defense is great, but it’s also important to stay relaxed. It might be tempting to tense up so you can more accurately predict your opponent’s shots, but staying relaxed is the best way to get results. In addition, if you get used to a relaxed stance, you can quickly use your wrist to make small movements that can protect your goal from the puck.
Air hockey can be as easy (or as challenging) as you want it to be, and it’s extremely accessible. It’s the kind of hobby that could potentially turn into something more if you practice hard enough, as it’s considered a professional sport. Have fun!
