How to Measure a Tennis Racket for the Perfect Fit
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Not sure how to measure a tennis racket to get the perfect fit? Here’s a quick and easy guide on how to do it so you can get back on the court in no time!
Introduction
A tennis racket should be comfortable for you to grip and swing. The size of the racket is an important factor in finding a comfortable fit, but the weight and balance of the racket are also important. If a racket is too heavy, it will be difficult to control. If it is too light, it will lack power. Tennis rackets are available in a variety of sizes and weights to suit different players.
In order to find a racket that is the right size for you, you will need to measure the length of your arm from your shoulder to your wrist. You will also need to know your height and weight. With these measurements, you can consult a sizing chart to find the right racket size for your body type.
Once you have found a few rackets that are the right size for you, it is time to try them out. The best way to do this is to go to a store that specializes in tennis equipment and have a professional help you select a racket. They will be able to help you find a racket that is the right weight and balance for your playing style.
The grip size
One of the most important aspects of choosing the right tennis racket is finding one with the perfect grip size. The grip size is the measurement in inches of the circumference of the handle of the racket. If the grip is too large, you will have difficulty controlling your shots. If it is too small, you will find that your hand cramps up and you have difficulty holding on to the racket. To find your ideal grip size, wrap a measuring tape around your hand just below your knuckles, excluding your thumb, and make a note of the measurement. To get an accurate measurement, do this at least three times to account for any variations. Once you have your measurement, add 1/8” for a comfortable fit or 1/16” for a tight fit. This is now your ideal racket grip size.
The length
The length of the racket is measured from the tip of the frame to the bottom of the handle. The best way to measure is to place the racket tip on the floor and hold it there with your foot. Then, measure from the top of your foot to the bottom of your hand. The average racket is 27 inches long, but some players like a longer or shorter racket for better maneuverability.
The weight
The weight of a racket is also an important factor to take into consideration before buying. Most people think that a heavier racket will offer more power, while a lighter racket will offer more control. But the weight you choose really depends on your playing style.
If you are an aggressive player who hits the ball hard, you may want to choose a racket that is on the heavier side so you can get more power behind your shots. If you are a control player who relies on placement and accuracy, you may want to choose a racket that is on the lighter side so you can swing it more easily and get more accuracy with your shots.
The weight of a tennis racket is typically indicated by two numbers. The first number is the strung weight, which is how much the racket weighs with the strings installed. The second number is the unstrung weight, which is how much the racket weighs without the strings installed.
The string pattern
In addition to grip size, the string pattern of a racket can also affect play. A denser string pattern (more strings per inch) will provide more control, while a wider string pattern (fewer strings per inch) will sacrifice some control for added power.
If you are an all-court player who likes to stay at the baseline and hit with a lot of topspin, you will want a racket with a denser string pattern. This type of player is often looking for more precise placement of their shots, rather than hitting winners all over the court. Djokovic’s Wilson Blade 98 18×20 falls into this category.
Conversely, if you are a power player who likes to come to the net and hit winners off of your opponent’s pace, you will want a racket with a wider string pattern. Players who use this style often have the talent to generate their own power and do not need as much help from the racket. Rafael Nadal’s Babolat Pure Aero 2019 falls into this category.
The balance
In addition to grip size, another important consideration when purchasing a racket is the weight or “mass” of the racket. The weight is typically listed in ounces, with the lower number corresponding to a lighter racket. For beginners and some recreational players, a lighter racket is often easier to swing. For moreadvanced players who generate their own power with their swings, a heavier racket may provide more stability and power.
There are two main types of balances for tennis rackets:
-Head Light: A head light balance means that the head of the racket (the part where the strings are) is lighter than the handle. This makes the racket easier to swing, but too much head light can make it difficult to control.
-Head Heavy: A head heavy balance means that the head of the racket is heavier than the handle. This makes the racket more stable and powerful, but can also make it difficult to swing.
The swing weight
One of the main specifications you’ll see when shopping for a tennis racket is the swing weight. This is a measurement of how much mass is distributed away from the racket’s center of gravity, and it affects the racket’s feel and maneuverability.
A racket with a lower swing weight will be easier to swing but will lack power, while a racket with a higher swing weight will be more powerful but less maneuverable. The sweet spot for most players is around 300g, but it’s ultimately up to you to decide what feels best.
To get an accurate measurement of your swing weight, you’ll need to use a special tool called a swing weight scale. These can be found at most sporting goods stores, or you can order one online. Once you have your scale, follow these steps:
1. Hold the handle of the racket in your dominant hand and place the head of the racket on the scale.
2. Use your other hand to hold down the scale’s arm so that it doesn’t move.
3. Read the number where the pointer meets the arm – this is yourswing weight.
4. Repeat this process with different rackets until you find one with a good balance of power and maneuverability for your playing style.
The beam width
One of the main things you want to look at when choosing a tennis racket is the beam width. The beam width is how wide the racket frame is from one side to the other. A wider beam width will give you more power, while a narrower beam width will give you more control.
The best way to measure the beam width of a tennis racket is to hold the racket in your hand with the strings facing you. Measure the distance from one side of the strings to the other at the widest point of the racket frame.
