Whether you are trying to take your game to the next level or you just don't have a partner to hit with often enough, a tennis ball machine is an option. This piece of equipment essentially gives you a permanent partner on the court, available whenever you would like to play and allowing you to hit whatever strokes you would like without relying on someone else to return them.
Function
A tennis ball machine basically "throws" balls at you so that you can practice hitting. Most ball machines can be adjust to the speed and position you would like so you can change it to adapt to whatever stroke you are practicing at a certain time. Many of these machines also offer remote control technology so you can remain in your hitting position and still adjust where the equipment is sending the balls.
Features
All tennis ball machines allow you some control over the ball. A few of the models actually let you set it to feed you specific strokes, such as lobs. Others will let you add features the pace of the ball, including topspin, underspin and height. Some of these features come standard with certain ball machines and others are optional. Check before you buy what comes included with the equipment you are purchasing.
Size And Cost
The size of a tennis ball machine can vary greatly, as can its capacity. It can hold anywhere from 28 to 300 balls, according to "Racquet Sports Industry Magazine's" guide of 2010 ball machines. This piece of equipment can also weigh as little as 30 and as much as 150 lbs. Surprisingly, the actual size and weight of the machine does not always determine the capacity or the price. The cost of ball machines can range from about $200 to $15,000.
Brands
When "Racquet Sports Industry" put together its 2010 Ball Machine article and data, there were eight companies making this equipment: Lobster, Playmate, SAM, Robot Optimizer, Silent Partner, Sports Attack, Sports Tutor and Super Coach. Most of these companies make a variety of models in different sizes, features and capacity. Sports Tutor makes some of the least expensive as well as some of the more costly machines.
Considerations
A ball machine is a big investment in your tennis. Before purchasing one, think about how often you will use it and whether it is worth owning one. Ask about trying one out at your local tennis club to see if you like it. It also may be possible at some clubs to rent out a ball machine on court once in a while if it is something you won't do often enough to make it worth owning one.
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