A Guide to Selecting a Tennis racquet

Tennis is considered as a fast sport which needs lots of stamina and energy. One of the most important aspect of the game is the racquets. A player’s game depends on his racquet and vice-versa.

All racquets are not suitable to all players. But it is very diificult for a player to choose his or her racquet. There are many things that must be kept in mind. There are different brands, sizes and prices to choose when buying a racquet. All can’t afford a costly racquet. Here are some of the things that should be focused on while buying a tennis racquet:

JUDGE A RACKET BY THE SIZE, LENGTH, STIFFNESS AND WEIGHT OF FRAME

The first thing to be considered when buying a racquet it its size, length and stiffness. The size should be neither too big nor too small.

It is considered that a larger frame racquet provides greater power and is less likely to twist in hand when hitting balls off centre. The larger the frame of the racquet, the larger the sweet spot, or the area of the strings where the impact of the ball is least likely to be felt.

A stiff frame also works the same as a large frame. It helps to provide greater power and bigger sweet spot area. It helps to distribute the impact of the ball accross the whole string area and it gives a uniform and a solid feeling response.

When a racquet frame is longer, it gives great speed when trying to swing it. When the velocity is more, more power and spin is possible in the shots – helping the shots to be exact. A longer racquet frame is also good for increased leverage and control. The best length of a racquet is 27 to 29 inches long.

A heavy frame is considered to be helpful in giving greatest power. It may pain the hands, but the power it can give is the best. It helps to have a higher sweet spot and also transmits fewer vibrations.

IT IS ALSO ESSENTIAL TO CONSIDER THE HEAD SIZE

There are different hoop sizes for beginners and advanced level players. Beginners usually prefer large headed racquets. It is easy to make shots in large headed racquets and shots can also be made even if the ball hits the racquet off centre. And as the sweet spot is larger, you normally tend to get more power.

Advanced level players can play with small headed racquets and they get more control using it.

THE WEIGHT AND BALANCE SHOULD BE PROPER

Head light racquets are mostly preferred by the professionals as they can get more power and control with them.

Heavy head racquets are considered to be lighter – without taking the weight and stability from the head.

THE STRINGS AFFECT THE BALL’S IMPACT AGAINST THE RACQUET

The strings can be open ended or closed pattern. The open pattern feels lose and light and deflects the ball upon impact, and it produces great spin. But these racquets require more maintenence.

The closed pattern racquet provides less spin but greater control and durability.

All of these points must be kept in mind while purchasing a racquet. The racquet must be bought depending on the needs and demand of the individual player.