10% discount with code XMAS10
WHY SHOULDN’T YOU CHANGE YOUR TENNIS RACKET?
It is essential to distinguish the good reasons from the false excuses to renew your tennis racket.
1- THE LURE OF MARKETING
Tennis brands frequently renew their ranges, with an average periodicity of two years. They usually emphasize innovative technological advances to encourage sales. However, these are often marketing strategies aimed at convincing that your current tennis racket is no longer competitive. Avoid changing rackets solely on the basis of these so-called innovative news.
2- THE CONFUSION BETWEEN RACKET AND STRING
A racquet can feel unpleasant because of the string. Before deciding to change rackets, make sure that the problem is not with the string. It is recommended to change the string at least twice a year. For frequent players, the string should be replaced every 15 to 20 hours of play, or sooner if you notice a significant loss of feel.
3- THE INFLUENCE OF POOR QUALITY BALLS
Playing with poor quality balls can make the racket feel like it no longer fits. It is important to differentiate the impact of the balls on your game from that of the racket. We will never say it enough but it is important to renew your balls and play with quality tennis balls to improve the pleasure of the game.
4- THE LACK OF TRAINING
Yes, a period without training can distort your perception of your racket. Before changing equipment, give yourself time to resume regular training. However, if you really wanted to change your tennis racket, then now is the best time!
5- A LACK OF TECHNIQUE
A racket must be complementary to your game but will not earn you 5 rankings. You have to be lucid about your game and it is sometimes better to take lessons with a tennis teacher who will correct a technical fault that will never be erased by a tennis racket.
GOOD REASONS TO CHANGE YOUR TENNIS RACKET
1- RECURRING INJURIES
An inappropriate racket can lead to tennis-related pain. Some extreme characteristics of the racquet can cause injury. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, it may be a good idea to try different rackets to see if they alleviate your symptoms. Some typical cases that can cause injury:
- A racket that is too light absorbs vibrations less contrary to what is said.
- A racket that is too heavy requires more muscle strength (make sure you have the size and level of play to play with the weight of the racket).
- An unsuitable handle size (too small or too big) will cause you to tighten the racket too much and therefore apply a lot of tension to the hand.
- A racket too rigid that emits more vibrations than a soft racket.
- A string that is too tight or loose (so consider changing your string).
2- A RACKET THAT HAS BECOME UNSUITABLE
Your racket may become unsuitable over time and as your physical skills change. Growing young players and seniors losing physical abilities may need to adjust their equipment.
- A young player who has a junior racket will have to switch to an adult racket adapted to his morphology.
- Conversely, as you age, you lose your physical qualities. Remember to adapt the weight and size of the sieve.
- You are progressing and will definitely need a tennis racket that suits your level of play.
- You play less or more: it may be time to adapt the racket to your frequency of play.
3- RACKET WEAR
Wear is another key factor to consider. The frame of the racket deforms with each ball strike and each setting, but also when it hits the ground (intentionally or unintentionally). Wear depends on your level of play, your style of play and the how often you play and change strings. A few tips will help you know if your racket is too worn:
- Power loss
- You see the fibers of the frame from scraping the racket on the ground
- The frame is cracked
- The stiffness of the racket has decreased
4- A NEW INCENTIVE
A change of racket can revitalize your enthusiasm for tennis, especially if your old equipment is no longer in good condition. A new racket may give you more power or control that your game may have been missing to compete with your opponents.
5- TO MAKE YOU HAPPY
Many tennis players like to have fun and therefore change their tennis racket. Nothing wrong with that, quite the contrary :)
WHAT IS THE LIFE SPAN OF A TENNIS RACKET?
How long a racket lasts depends on many factors, including your level of play, how often you practice, and how often you re-string. The following indications are therefore approximate:
- For players who play about 5 times a week, who re-string often and who hit hard: renewal every 1 to 2 years.
- For players who play 3 to 5 times a week: renewal every 2 to 3 years.
- For players who play 1 to 2 times a week without hitting hard and who re-string little: renewal every 3 to 5 years.
These times may vary depending on your playing power, re-strung frequency, and visible racket wear.
To keep your tennis racket longer, we recommend:
- Leave your racket in a dry and temperate place to avoid sudden temperature changes (avoid storing it in your car trunk).
- Systematically cut the string when it is broken (the string continues to “work” and the fiber of your frame too)
Use a tennis bag with an insulated pocket to ensure your racket suffers as few temperature changes as possible.
OUR TENNIS GUIDES
