How To Choose Your First Racket
One of the common questions we get from our adult students is: "How do I select my first tennis racket?"
This is an important question because the racket that you use may help or hinder your tennis development. There are 3 main aspects to consider when you are purchasing your racket.
1. Grip Size
The grip size can usually be found on the butt cap. Typical grip sizes:
4 inches (US size) / 0 (Euro size)
4-1/8 inches (US size) / 1 (Euro size)
4-1/4 inches (US size) / 2 (Euro size)
4-3/8 inches (US size) / 3 (Euro size)
4-1/2 inches (US size) / 4 (Euro size)
Most women use size 0,1 or 2. Most men use size 2, 3 or 4.
Why does grip size matter?
- comfort
- easier to swing
- less prone to slipping off
How do we measure if the grip size is suitable? One index finger spacing (refer to the video).
2. Weight
For women, we recommend unstrung weight between 255 grams to 285 grams.
For men, we recommend unstrung weight between 285 grams to 315 grams.
Why does weight matter?
- If too heavy, your arm muscles will tire easily and your technique will be compromised
- If too light, more power may need to be generated from your body and your technique will be compromised
Most of the specifications will be stated on the frame of the racket.
3. Head Size
We recommend at least 100 square inches (645 square centimetres) for both women and men.
Why does head size matter?
- Smaller head size = smaller sweet spot = higher risk of missing the sweet spot = balls flying everywhere. However, a smaller head size can improve control and accuracy for intermediate and advanced players.
- Bigger head size = bigger sweet spot = easier to hit balls = lower risks of arm injuries.
- Bigger head size = greater rebound effect from strings (like a bigger trampoline = higher bounce effect) = more powerful shots.
Most of the specifications will be stated on the frame of the racket.
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About The Author
Darren Teo is the founder of Play! Tennis, the most Google reviewed tennis academy in Singapore. His passion for making tennis accessible to everyone regardless of their age, experience and ability continues to drive his work at the school. He is a thought leader in LinkedIn with 14,000 followers.