Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing a Tennis Grip

Tennis grip size is the perimeter of the octagonal cross-section of the handle of your tennis racket. Basically, it is the thickness or outline of the handle that pertains to the grip size. The right tennis grip size is one of the factors that can affect your play. Hence, you need to make sure that you choose the right one, or you risk compromising your entire game with poor performance. The wrong tennis grip may injure you, too, leading to injuries to the elbow, wrist, and hand, and irritation. Tennis grips typically range in sizes from 101.6mm (four inches) for juniors to 123mm (4¾ inches) for adults in the US. Grip size is rated in numbers from 0 to 5 in Europe. Take note of the following pointers when choosing a tennis grip that is right for you:

• Take note of factors like the type of grip, handle shape, and the use of an overgrip – Overgrip adds either an entire size (1/16 to 1/8 inch) or half to your racket. If you want to use an overgrip, make sure that the racket is half to one size lower, depending on the type you will use.

• Can’t decide? Pick the smaller one – A smaller tennis grip will be more forgiving in case you decide to use overgrips later to increase its size.

• No overgrip? Do not choose a smaller grip – A racket with a smaller grip will make you exert more force and squeeze the handle harder. This can harm your elbow, forearm, and hand, since it leads to fatigue and cause tendonitis. Likewise, avoid a racket with a larger grip as it will restrict movement on your wrist, tire you out easily, and make it difficult to change grips.

• Pick a grip that large enough and comfortable for play – A tennis grip in the right size will enable a full range of motion and let you play comfortably.

• Refer to the racket’s buttcap – You can typically find the right tennis grip size for your tennis racket on the buttcap. Otherwise, check the throat of the racket’s frame.