SELECTING THE RIGHT TENNIS RACKET FOR YOU

Now that the USTA Adult League play is over and the holiday season is upon us (hint, hint), this is a good time to try out some different tennis rackets. Why? Because many of you are still playing with a type of racket that you used when you first started playing tennis. Most beginners start with oversize, lightweight rackets that give them power and are easy to swing. But, as your game has changed and improved (hopefully), your racket should also reflect that improvement. With so many rackets on the market, how do you know what type of racket is right for you? Never fear . . . your friendly, neighborhood tennis pro will give you a few salient ideas!! But keep in mind, the following are just a few generalities and are not absolutes.

First, HEAD SIZE: Rackets come in various sizes: oversize, mid plus and mid size. Generally, the larger the head size, the more power you will have and the larger the sweet spot. The smaller the head size, the more control you will get from the racket. To me, a good rule of thumb is if you have a fairly big swing, a mid plus or a mid size racket may be better suited for you because you will have more control. If your swing is short and compact, an oversize racket will give you the power that you may lack.

LENGTH: Racket lengths range from 27 (standard) to 29 inches. Obviously, a longer racket will give you more range, but will also increase the "pop" on your serve.

WEIGHT: A heavier racket will have more power, do more of the work and transmit less vibration, but will not be as maneuverable (net rushers like a lighter racket, groundstrokers may prefer a little more bulk). A lighter racket is more maneuverable which allows the player to swing faster. A lightweight racket weighs in the neighborhood of 8-10.5 oz. A heavier racket is between 11-13 oz. Throw in the balance (head-light, head-heavy, or evenly balanced) and then you have something else to consider. One other rule of thumb: try playing with the heaviest racket you can handle.
And then there is the string: what type of string to use, the tension, the gauge, etc. (sounds like another tip of the month!).

There are many, many companies that manufacture fine tennis rackets. Talk with your pro, demo a few (a must) and see the difference the right racket will make in your game.

Courtesy of your friendly, neighborhood superpro, Junie