The selection of the correct tennis racquet can be one of the most important choices you’ll have to make when starting out. The correct racquet will greatly influence the performance of your players, their comfort and general enjoyment. With so many options it can be confusing to figure out where to begin. This guide will take you through the most important aspects to take into consideration when selecting an appropriate tennis racquet to match your level of play, assisting you make an informed choice.
1. Consider the Racquet Head Size
For an aspiring player, it’s crucial to select a racquet that has a an increased head size. The bigger head, the greater the sweet spot – this is the part of the strings that generates the most control and power in hitting the ball. A bigger sweet spot helps you get the ball into contact even when your swing isn’t precise.
- The recommended head sizes for novices: 100-110 square inches
This gives you more tolerance to hits off center and also helps you build your skills more easily.
2. Look at the Racquet Weight
Weight of the tennis racquet impacts your control and power. For novices the lighter racquet is usually preferred because it is easier to move and requires less force to swing. If the racquet is too heavy it could cause instability or inability to control. The balance between stability and weight is crucial.
- The recommended weight for novices: 9-10.5 ounces (unstrung)
A racquet of this type is a good mix of control and power, but isn’t too heavy for the beginner to manage.
3. Evaluate the Racquet Length
The average length of an racquet for tennis is approximately 27 inches. This is usually the ideal size for beginner players. The longer tennis racquets (up up to 29 inches) give you greater reach and more strength, but they may become more tricky to manage. If you are a beginner staying with the standard length will enable you to improve your skills easily and not have the difficulties of controlling a racquet with a larger length.
- The recommended length for novices: 27 inches
This size will allow you to keep your balance and maintain control as you learn the basics to play.
4. Check the Grip Size
The size of the grip is important to both comfort and performance. A grip which is too small may result in excessive wrist movements which can result in injuries such as tennis elbow. On the other hand, an unsuitable grip large could hinder the ability of you to turn the racquet efficiently. To determine the proper size grip, hold the racquet in your hands and put one of your fingers in between the palm and fingers. There is enough room enough to allow it to be comfortably.
- The recommended size for grips for newbies: 4 1/8 to 4 3/8 inches (depending on the hand size)
A comfortable grip can reduce stress on your wrist and hand and allows for greater control and more comfort while playing.
5. Choose the Right String Tension
While the frame of your racquet is crucial, you should not forget the tension of the strings. The tighter your strings are, the better control you’ll have but with less power. In contrast, looser strings offer greater power, but less control. If you are an aspiring player, you might prefer to start by using a racquet that has moderate tension. This will give you a balanced balance between the power and control.
- String tensions recommended for newbies: 50-60 pounds
This model is powerful enough without sacrificing control. It gives beginners the chance to learn how to properly stroke.
6. Balance and Power Level
For beginners, it is best to use racquets with a greater degree of being evenly balanced or slightly heavier on the head. These racquets provide a blend of control and power that makes it much easier for novices to hit the ball hard and still maintain accuracy.
- The recommended racquet balance for those who are new to the sport: Even balance or slightly head-heavy
This gives you the extra strength you require as you build your skill.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Fit for You
The right tennis racquet will be about finding the right balance for your level of skill and style. For a beginner, go for a racquet which is simple to handle, has larger head sizes as well as a light weight and a comfortable grip. If you choose a racquet that meets your current needs you’ll be able to increase your performance quickly and be able to enjoy your time in the courts.
We at Smart Tennis Lessons, we know the importance of using the correct equipment. Our highly experienced coaches are there to help you through your training but also making the right equipment choices to ensure your success. Contact us now to begin your tennis journey confidently!
Leave a Reply