Learn Tennis – How to Pick the Perfect Tennis Racket

Learn Tennis – How to Pick the Perfect Tennis Racket

Purchasing the right tennis racket can be confusing. In this piece, I’m going to give you some tips to help make the process a little easier. Check it out…

Know Your Skill Level. Rackets are divided into three categories: power rackets (best for beginners and intermediates), tweeners (for intermediate and advanced players) and control rackets (best for advanced players). By categorizing your skill level, you’ll instantly narrow the field of rackets to purchase.

Know Your Options. Head size, racket length, weight and string tension are all important things to consider when selecting your racket.

  • A larger head size will equal more power, but a smaller head will give you more control.
  • Length is also critical. Rackets are available in lengths from 27-29 inches. A longer racket will provide you with more reach for ground strokes, and is typically more powerful than a short racket. Longer rackets are also lighter than their shorter counterparts.
  • Heavy rackets pack a more powerful punch, but light rackets are more maneuverable and provide more control. Mid-weight rackets are a good option, since they provide a nice combination of control and power.
  • Most tennis rackets for sale will be pre-strung with a fixed amount of tension in the strings. Getting your racket restrung is always an option. Tight strings will give you more control, and loose strings offer more power.

Know Your Grip. Put your hand around the grip. You’ll see a space where your finger and palm meet. Place your index finger from your other hand in between that space. Does it fit? Perfect! The grip is right for you. If there’s too much space, the grip is too big. If there’s not enough space, try something smaller.

Know Your Price. If you’re truly committed to developing your game, then price should be no object. For the rest of us, that’s not practical. If you’re just getting started, you can even try a used racket, just to get a feel for what you like or dislike. Ultimately, only you know how much you can afford.

There are dozens of tutorials, quizzes and demos online to help make this process easier, but the most important thing is testing the rackets for yourself. Does the racket feel too heavy or light in your hand? Do you have a good grip on the handle? Is the head too big?

Follow your gut, and you’ll be on your way.