Tips to Picking Out a Tennis Racket
If you are a new player, it is helpful to know a few tips to picking out a tennis racket. Tennis racket companies spend enormous amounts of money to convince you that their product is the best available, but every person is different and must find a racket that suits his or her needs. Fortunately, there are a few basic tips and tricks to help your search.
Demo program
Take advantage of the demo program offered by most tennis racket retailers. Whether you are a rank amateur or a professional, you can take advantage of this program. Most companies allow you to select up to four rackets, have them shipped to your home, use them for a week and then ship them back. Usually all you have to pay for is the shipping. By testing out several models, you can discover what you like and do not like about different styles.
Selecting rackets
If you are already a tennis player and have a racket you normally use, consider getting a similar racket. Try a few things that are slightly different to see if you like these changes, but do not get something radically unfamiliar. Experiment a little with the weight, perhaps by trying one racket that weighs slightly less than your current one and another that weighs slightly more. If you can handle the weight, heavier rackets produce more power. Try different string patterns. Denser patterns give you more control, but less dense ones provide more spin. If you are experiencing arm problems, like difficulties with your elbow or wrist, your racket is probably too stiff. Try a racket with a springier frame, and see if your arm feels better. Maybe you love your current racket but it is getting a little worn. Companies are always taking advantage of new technologies and updating their models, so you should consider a newer version of a racket you already own or like.
Trying the rackets
After choosing and receiving your demo rackets, you need to test them. The best way to do this is by testing them one at a time, on different days. It is very tempting to run to the court and start hitting balls with each one in turn, but this does not help you very much. Instead, select one to bring along with your normal racket. Warm up as usual with your old racket. Then, use one of the demo rackets for about an hour, paying attention to how it feels different or similar to your usual racket. By using only one racket a day, you can focus on how the racket feels and moves. Do the same thing with each of the other rackets. On the final day, bring them all to the court to compare their performance.
Choosing which racket to buy
You are under no obligation to buy any of the rackets you tried out, so if you do not like any of them, demo four more rackets. If you find one you like, get it and enjoy!
Because of the helpful tennis racket demo program, you can try out as many rackets as it takes to find the racket of your dreams. If you test each racket thoroughly and make an informed decision, you are rewarded for years to come.