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.
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