Paralympic Table Tennis Classifications: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

What Are the Paralympic Table Tennis Classifications?

The Paralympic Table Tennis Classifications are a structured system that groups athletes with physical or intellectual impairments based on how their condition affects their ability to play.

Think of it like boxing weight classes — a heavyweight never competes against a lightweight because their capabilities differ. Similarly, in Para Table Tennis, athletes play against others with similar functional abilities, ensuring fair, skill-based, and strategy-driven matches rather than physical mismatches.

To explore the official framework, visit the ITTF Para Table Tennis Classification Guide

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Reading the Para Table Tennis Classification PDF

The Para Table Tennis Classification PDF, published by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), serves as the official handbook detailing:

• The classification process

• The evaluation and testing of athletes

• Impairment profiles for each class

• Sport-specific criteria

Players, coaches, and fans can download this PDF to understand how athletes are categorized before competitions.

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Why Classifications Matter in Para Table Tennis

Without a proper system, athletes with vastly different abilities might face each other, leading to unfair competition. Classifications ensure that matches are determined by skill, tactics, and training, not by disability.

For example, imagine a wheelchair player competing against someone who can stand and move freely — their mobility range differs significantly. With accurate classification, both players compete with others sharing similar physical abilities.

This system celebrates talent, effort, and equality — not limitations.

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The Classification Process for Paralympic Table Tennis Players

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how players are classified:

Step 1: Medical Assessment

Athletes submit medical documentation detailing their impairment. Certified ITTF classifiers review these to understand each athlete’s condition.

Step 2: Physical Evaluation

Classifiers observe movement, balance, and hand control during sport-specific actions.

Step 3: Technical Observation

Athletes participate in practice rallies while classifiers assess how their impairment affects performance.

Step 4: Class Assignment

After all assessments, athletes receive a class number (1–11) based on their functional ability.

This transparent and scientific process ensures accuracy, fairness, and consistency across global events.

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The 11 Paralympic Table Tennis Classifications

Athletes are divided into 11 classes, grouped by competition type — wheelchair, standing, or intellectual impairment.

 Wheelchair Classes (1–5)

• Class 1–2: Minimal trunk control, limited arm movement

• Class 3–4: Improved trunk control and balance

• Class 5: Full arm function, strong balance, limited leg function

 Standing Classes (6–10)

• Class 6: Severe impairment in arms or legs

• Class 7–8: Moderate impairment, possibly on one side (unilateral)

• Class 9–10: Mild impairment, such as slight balance or strength issues

 Intellectual Impairment (Class 11)

• Class 11: For athletes with intellectual disabilities, verified by INAS (International Sports Federation for Persons with Intellectual Disability).

These classes ensure every athlete competes on equal and fair terms.

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Updates in the 2021 & 2022 Paralympic Table Tennis Classifications

The Paralympic Table Tennis Classifications 2021 introduced consistent standards to make competition fairer.
In Paralympic Table Tennis Classifications 2022, new testing protocols were implemented to enhance accuracy and reduce reclassification disputes.

These updates reflect how sports science continues to evolve, making the classification system more inclusive and precise.

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Spotlight: Paralympic Table Tennis 2024

The Paralympic Table Tennis 2024 event at the Paris Games will feature the world’s top para athletes competing for medals and glory.

The updated classification system will ensure every match is balanced, thrilling, and fair, showcasing the diversity of abilities — from wheelchair users with lightning-fast reflexes to standing players delivering powerful spins.

Explore related coverage: Paralympic Powerlifting Rules and Regulations 
 Learn more about other sports: Paralympic Swimming Classifications Guide

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Important Para Table Tennis Rules You Must Know

The Para Table Tennis Rules are almost identical to Olympic rules, with a few key adaptations:

• Wheelchair Service Rule: The ball must not cross the sideline during service.

• Service Adjustments: Some athletes modify serves based on ability.

• Assistive Equipment: Wheelchairs, straps, or supports are allowed.

• Scoring System: Traditional ITTF scoring applies (best of five, 11 points per game).

These rules ensure safety, inclusion, and fairness across all matches.

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The Power of Fairness: A True Story

At Tokyo 2020, Chinese athlete Feng Panfeng (Class 3) won a gold medal. He shared:

“Classification offered me the opportunity to compete on equal terms. It’s about what I can do, not what I can’t.”

His story captures the heart of Paralympic Table Tennis — a celebration of bravery, hard work, and equality.

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How to Read a Paralympic Table Tennis Class Chart

If you’re new, here’s a quick chart to help you understand each class:

This chart makes it easier to recognize how each athlete competes and the unique challenges they overcome.

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Start Your Para Table Tennis Journey

Feeling inspired? Here’s how you can begin:

✅ Join your local Para Sports club
✅ Contact your National Paralympic Committee
✅ Learn about your classification
✅ Get adaptive sports equipment

Once classified, you’ll compete fairly and confidently among athletes with similar abilities.

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Final Thoughts

The Paralympic Table Tennis Classifications ensure the sport remains fair, inclusive, and empowering.
They remind us that success isn’t about perfection — it’s about passion, persistence, and performance.

Whether you’re a fan, coach, or athlete, understanding these classifications deepens your appreciation for this incredible sport.

So, grab your paddle, explore the Para Table Tennis Classification PDF, and enjoy a world where every spin, rally, and smash reflects true equality and sportsmanship.

FAQ

Q1. What are the classifications for tennis in the Paralympics?

There are 11 classes:

• 1–5: Wheelchair users
  
• 6–10: Standing players
  
• 11: Intellectual impairment
  

Q2. What is class 7 in table tennis?

Class 7 is for standing players with moderate physical impairments who can move around the table.

Q3. How many categories are there in table tennis?

There are 11 categories in total, divided into wheelchair, standing, and intellectual classes.

Q4. What is the MS7 category in table tennis?

MS7 means Men’s Singles Class 7, a standing class for athletes with moderate