You don't have to spend a lot to find a beginner racket that will help you learn the game. In fact, spending hundreds of dollars on a top-of-the-line racket and custom string job might not provide much more benefit than buying a generic racket at a big box store. While you're developing the basic footwork and coordination to hit the ball, focus on a larger, lighter racket for maximum benefit.
Racket Types
Tennis racket manufacturers sell rackets in three basic categories: Game Improvement, Tweener and Player's rackets. Game Improvement rackets are designed to do just that: Help beginners make longer rallies with more forgiving features. Player's rackets provide more control and less power, since top competitors can generate their own power. Tweener rackets provide a mix of power and control between beginner and competitive players' rackets.
Head Size
One of the main considerations for beginners choosing a tennis racket is head size. The larger the head size, the more hitting area you'll have. Not only will this help you hit more shots, but as you improve, you'll also get more control as you hit off-center shots because of the larger sweet spot, or optimal hitting area.
Weight
Beginners want a lighter racket that is easier to swing. This helps you create a faster swing, which helps you generate more power, since a racket traveling at 40 mph sends a ball away faster than a racket traveling at 30 mph. Rackets with more weight toward the head have a larger sweet spot, a big plus for beginners.
Length
Look for a longer racket, which gives you more reach and more momentum on serves and ground strokes. Beginner rackets often come in a 27.5-inch length, as opposed to the standard 26-inch length used by better players.
Price
Don't buy a racket on price. Many of the beginner rackets you find in a big box store are made by the same companies that make the name-brand rackets. For $20 or less, you can find a reliable racket that will help get you started. Once you learn what type of style of play you want to develop, such as baseliner or net rusher, you can buy a more expensive racket that has specific features you want.
General Features
Look for a racket with a larger head size, a length near 27.5 inches, a balance point toward the head and one that's light enough for you to swing for 30 minutes or more without tiring your arm.
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