What are the seated classes in para table tennis?
I · Intermediate · Classes · 1 of 4Only players who cannot walk functionally, or have certain high leg amputations, may play seated. Classes 1 to 3 have poor or no sitting balance and use the other arm to hold the trunk: class 1 also has a weak playing arm, class 2 working elbow extension, class 3 near-normal arms. Class 4 has some trunk balance, class 5 good trunk function.
How it works
- Eligibility: cannot walk or step sideways functionally.
- Amputations: short above-knee stump, or above and below knee.
- Class 1: weak grip, no active elbow extension.
- Class 2: reduced arm function, elbow works.
- Class 3: normal arms, upper trunk may be active.
- Classes 1 to 3: other arm holds the trunk.
- Class 4: poor pelvic anchorage.
- Class 5: good trunk muscles.
The glossary has the sitting classes 1 to 5, the classes 1 to 3, the classes 4 and 5, the playing arm and non-playing arm, the wheelchair points and the table for wheelchair players.
Tricky cases
A player walks with crutches. Seated class?
Only if they are not a functional walker.
Is a single below-knee amputee seated?
No. They play standing.
What separates class 4 from class 5?
Pelvic anchorage and trunk muscles.
Can a class 3 player lean forward?
They may have an active upper trunk.
Why the rule exists
Sitting balance decides how far a player can lean for the ball. The arm decides how hard they can hit.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Classes 1 to 3 | Poor sitting balance | CR A1 3 |
| Class 4 | Partial balance | CR A1 3 |
| Class 5 | Good trunk | CR A1 3 |
From the rule book
ITTF, Classification Rules for Para Table Tennis (January 2018), Appendix One section 3. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: ITTF Statutes 2026 and Para Table Tennis Classification Rules.