There are several steps involved in choosing the right tennis racket. You should consider the balance, head size, weight and length of the racket. The criteria for selecting a racket will depend on your skill level and preference. Once you find the correct format racket, you need to select the proper grip size. According to Dick's Sporting Goods, a properly fitted grip is essential to controlling the racket. A grip that is too small for your hand keeps you from holding the racket firmly, and a large grip will affect your wrist action.
Select a Grip Size
Step 1
Hold your dominant hand open with the palm facing up. Extend your fingers completely and press them together.
Step 2
Place the bottom edge of a ruler against the second crease in your palm. If you look at the palm of your hand, you should see three deep creases, two horizontal and one vertical that curves toward your thumb. The second crease is the one between the top horizontal crease and the vertical one.
Step 3
Lay the ruler vertically against the line that forms when you press your middle and ring fingers together. Measure from the second crease to the top of your ring finger. This is your grip size.
Step 4
Record your grip size and take it with you when shopping for a racket. Grip size is an important element. After determining the other factors for your racket such as balance and head size, select a racket close to your grip size or slightly smaller. You can enlarge a grip size by using wrapping tape on the racket handle. However, you cannot reduce a grip size. Selecting a racket with a grip larger than you can handle causes injuries to the muscles in your arm.
Size the Racket Body
Step 1
Select a larger head size if you are a beginner. The website Tennis Thing reports larger heads provide more power and stability. Large heads are best for beginning players.
Step 2
Move to a smaller head racket if you are a skilled player. As your skill develops, you are able to control your shots through play and rely less on the racket. At this point, a smaller head has more advantages and will add power to your swing.
Step 3
Look at all the head sizes for your skill level. Heads come in midsize, midplus, oversize, and super oversize. If you have a medium skill level, select a midplus head at 90 to 105 square inches.
Step 4
Pick up rackets to gauge the weight. The lighter the racket, the more speed you must place in your swing. Determine a weight that allows you to swing with power but does not fatigue your arm. Get the Right Fit suggests a racket that weighs at least 11 oz. for a beginner.
Step 5
Hold the racket to determine a length suited for you. Length is less of a skill component than a comfort setting for the player. Practice holding different lengths and pick one that feels comfortable.
Select a Balance Point
Step 1
Evaluate your style of play to select a balance point for your racket. Balance refers to the stability point of the racket. Determine if you play at the baseline, the net or in the center of the court. Game style factors into balance choice.
Step 2
Investigate "head heavy" rackets if you play at the baseline. This style racket carries the weight near the head.
Step 3
Purchase a "head light" balance if you prefer to play near the net. A head light racket provides a player with faster movement.
Step 4
Choose an evenly balanced racket if you are a casual player who starts in the center court. Evenly balanced rackets use the midpoint as the center.
Tips and Warnings
- Selecting a racket is a personal choice. As you go through the steps, make note of the different choices that you prefer. For instance, if you feel comfortable with a large headed racket, write that down. After investigating all variations, choose a racket based on your notes that has the proper grip size for you.
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