Useful Tips

HOW TO CHOOSE A RACKET FOR BIG TENNIS - how to choose a tennis racket for adults and children

My tennis racket “formula for quality” is defined by five parameters.

The larger the surface area of ​​the string, the easier it is to hit the ball.

For beginners and those who like to play on the back row, I recommend choosing the Oversize with an increased string area - 110-115 in² (square inches).

But the big head has disadvantages:

  • the aerodynamic properties are reduced: more force will have to be invested in the push;
  • ball control worsens: it will be more difficult to execute an aimed strike.

The larger the head of the racket, the more powerful the stroke, the smaller the better the control.

  • Mid Plus or MidOver sizes (90-105 in²) are a trade-off between strength and precision. They are the most popular among the majority of players.
  • With less string area, it is easier to control the impact. MidSize models (70-89 in²) are good for on-the-fly swings. But your playing technique must be perfect.
  • SuperOversize giants (116-135 in²) should not be purchased by a beginner.

The tighter the interlacing of the strings, the easier it is to control the ball.

Photos from the site: blog.tennis-warehouse.com

The most common string formulas are 16x19 and 18x20. The first number in the formula means the number of strings vertically, the second - horizontally.

16x19 (open formula)

  • When hitting, the ball "lingers" on large cells longer and gets additional spin.
  • Strings wear out faster.

18x20 (closed or dense formula)

  • It is easier to control the ball on a hard surface.
  • The shock feels less comfortable on the wrist.

Tightly weave strings for experienced players. They make up for the loss of strength with skill. Beginners are better off opting for an open formula.

The heavier the racket, the more powerful the serve.

Like the area of ​​the stringed surface of the racket's head, its weight is also proportional to the player's skill level.

  • A beginner needs a maneuverable light weight of 260-280 g. It obeys every hand movement, simplifying the development of the technique of the game and reducing the load on muscles and joints.
  • When you have sharpened your shots to automaticity, work on a powerful serve with a 280-320 g racket.
  • Professionals play with "heavyweights" weighing from 320 g.

Trainer's advice: increase the weight of the racket gradually. Every 15 grams dramatically changes the way you play. Remember, you can make the racket heavier, but not lighter.

The balance of gravity of the racket predetermines the technique of the game

Balance refers to the distribution of the racket's weight.

Photos from the site: blog.tennis-warehouse.com

  • If it outweighs the rim, it is a head-balanced model (HH marking).
  • When the handle is heavier - balance to the handle (marked HL).
  • The weight is evenly distributed - the balance is neutral.

What does this mean in practice? Imagine that you are swinging a hammer, holding it first by the handle, and then by the head of the percussion instrument. In the second case, it is easier to manage it, although the total mass has not changed.

  • A racket balanced in the handle is lighter when swinging. Its feature is agility. This is the choice of those who prefer to play at the net.
  • For backcourt play where more powerful shots are required, balance to the head is preferable.

Trainer's advice: neutral balancing is a universal option. Start with this racket until you have developed your style of play.

The stiffer the rim, the more stress on the arm

Photos from the site: blog.tennis-warehouse.com

The stiffer the rim, the more vibration from impact and recoil to the hand. Inexperienced or previously injured players should choose a racket with a softer rim.

How to choose a tennis racket for your child

The most important criterion is the length of the racket. According to the rules, it is held by the end of the handle, and the child will constantly grab the racket "for growth" by the middle of the handle. This is a surefire way to ruin your technique.

How to choose a children's tennis racket by height and weight

Child's ageHeight, cmRacket weight, gRacket length, inch
34 years10014917
5 - 6 years old11615719
6 - 7 years old12517521
7 - 9 years old13519523
9 years14021525
10 years145245 - 25526

Trainer's advice: how to choose a tennis racket for a child if you happen to be in a store and do not remember these calculations? Have the baby grab the end of the handle and put his hand down. There should be about 5 cm from the top of the rim to the floor.

For children under 7 years old who are just taking their first steps in tennis, I advise you to choose a sports equipment according to three parameters.

  • Racket material - aluminum. It is the lightest. When the little player has mastered the technique, take a closer look at the graphite or carbon models.
  • A pen - shortened. It will be easier to swing while the child's coordination is not well developed.
  • String surface area - increased. The larger the head, the easier it is to hit the ball.

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