Thursday 28 July 2016

The Ultimate Tennis Racket Sizing Guide



When choosing a tennis racket size, there are three things that need to be considered: the length of the racket, and the size of the grip and the head. This guide will explain how exactly to work out what grip size, head size and racket length is most suitable for you, to ensure you are the best you can possibly be out on the court.

Grip Size

Calculating your grip size is a very easy process, and it is also useful to know that a racket’s grip size can be altered by adding or removing grips.

To measure your grip size, all that is required is your hand and a ruler. Simply place the ruler on the palm of your dominant hand (the hand you use for your forehand) and horizontally align it with the gap between your thumb and index finger. Point the ruler vertically, and measure its length up to your ring finger in inches. Then, use the chart below to determine your grip size:

4 inches      = Grip Size 0

4 1/8 inches = Grip Size 1

4 1/4 inches = Grip Size 2

4 3/8 inches = Grip Size 3

4 1/2 inches = Grip Size 4

4 5/8 inches = Grip Size 5

Racket Length

Surprisingly, the matter of racket length for adults is not a greatly complicated subject. Anyone 150cm or taller is advised to use a 27 inch racket. There are oversized rackets made longer than 27 inches, but ultimately it comes down to the individual to decide whether or not they wish to go higher than the standard racket length. The advantage of longer rackets is their increased reach and power, but it is important to remember that the feel of oversized rackets can often be strange and unnatural. Considering this, it is best to adopt a “try before you buy” philosophy, and if a racket feels good and right in your hands, then you can invest in confidence.

Racket length for children is not such a straightforward issue. If younger players start early in the game, then they will need new rackets fairly regularly to accommodate their height growth and tennis development. The size guide below shows the appropriate racket length for children, and anyone under 150cm:

Below 105cm = Size 19

105-118cm = Size 21

118-135cm = Size 23

135-150cm (aged 9-10) = Size 25

135-150cm (aged 11-12) = Size 26

Above 150cm = Size 27

Note: Racket length is measured in inches

Head Size

The head of the racket is the part of the racket covered by the strings. As with the length of the racket, the head size also boils down to personal preference, however there are advised sizes to follow based on your tennis ability.

Beginners should opt for oversized rackets which normally are above 105 square inches. Oversized rackets have the biggest head size of all, and provide beginners with a great deal of power to assist them in getting the ball over the net when they are new to the game.

Intermediates would be wise to purchase mid-plus head sized rackets, which range between 95-105 square inches. Mid-plus rackets give players a nice blend of power and control at a stage where they will be beginning to develop these two skills to a good level.

Advanced players require mid-sized rackets, below 95 square inches. These rackets offer increased control, but are difficult to use compared with larger rackets. Players using mid-sized rackets have the ability to create all their own power through their racket speed and timing.

Although this head size guide is accurate and helpful, it certainly does not apply to everyone. Even in the professional game, players such as Andre Agassi chose oversized rackets instead of mid-plus, whereas others like Roger Federer preferred rackets around the 95 square inch mark.

The decision for the size of your rackets and grips is entirely yours, but be sure to choose wisely and sensibly.

Blog Source URL: http://tennisracket.me/blog/the-ultimate-tennis-racket-sizing-guide/

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