If you're planning to spend time on the court, getting a properly fitting tennis racket is essential. The type of racket you need depends on your level of experience, your style of play and your body type. An experienced professional does not mind spending top-dollar on the best racket available, but a beginner wants a racket that is versatile and easy to use.
Size
Tennis rackets are available in a wide range of sizes. Smaller rackets, or control rackets, are appropriate for players with hard-hitting, powerful swings since smaller rackets are easier to control. Players who don't have a powerful swing might benefit from a longer, stiffer racket, or power racket, which helps them hit the ball harder. Beginners often choose oversized rackets, or rackets ranging in size from 107 to 135 square inches, which supply more power and make it easier for them to hit the ball.
Weight
The invention of new, lightweight materials means that high-tech synthetic materials have replaced heavy wooden tennis rackets. Although heavy rackets supply more power, they are also harder for less powerful for shorter players to wield. Short players or those with a slight build often choose a lightweight racket they can handle more easily.
Length
The height of the player determines the appropriate length of racket, as does his playing style. Longer rackets have greater leverage, which increases their power. Their extra length enables greater reach, letting players cover more of the court than would otherwise be possible. However, slight players might find shorter rackets easier to handle since they weigh less than long rackets.
Grip Size
Make sure that your racket has the proper grip size to avoid tennis elbow, an injury that causes pain on the outer arm near the elbow. To determine the correct size, measure your hand from the middle of your palm, at its lower lateral crease, to the tip of your ring finger, keeping your hand open and extended. This length is your grip size. The average grip size for a woman is 4 1/8 to 4 3/8 inches; the average for a man is between 4 ½ and 4 ¾ inches. A properly sized grip enables better handling of the racket and may improve your enjoyment of the game as well as your performance.
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