What is the Right Tennis Grip Size?
One of the most important fundamentals of your tennis game is your grip. If your grip is too big, it can negatively affect your technique, power, and accuracy. Knowing the right grip size and how to measure it is key to playing your best tennis.
The right grip size for you is determined by your hand size and playing style. Generally, players with smaller hands should use a smaller grip, while players with larger hands should choose a larger grip. Additionally, players with a more aggressive playing style who hit with a full swing should use a larger grip, while those with a more defensive playing style should use a smaller grip.
How to Measure your Grip Size
Knowing your grip size is essential for playing your best tennis. To measure your grip size, you can use a ruler or tape measure.
Step 1: Measure your Middle Finger
Start by measuring your middle finger from the crease in your palm to the tip of your finger. Be sure to measure your finger when it is in a relaxed position.
Step 2: Measure your Ring Finger
Next, measure your ring finger from the crease in your palm to the tip of your finger. Again, make sure that your finger is in a relaxed position.
Step 3: Compare Your Measurements
Once you have both measurements, compare them. If your middle finger is longer than your ring finger, you should use a larger grip. If your middle finger is shorter than your ring finger, you should use a smaller grip.
Common Grip Sizes
The most common grip sizes are 4 1/8, 4 1/4, 4 3/8, 4 1/2, and 4 5/8. These sizes are determined by the circumference of the grip, which ranges from 103-127mm.
Smaller Grip Sizes
Smaller grip sizes are typically used by players with smaller hands and those who play with a more defensive playing style. The most common smaller grip sizes are 4 1/8, 4 1/4, and 4 3/8.
Larger Grip Sizes
Larger grip sizes are typically used by players with larger hands and those who play with a more aggressive playing style. The most common larger grip sizes are 4 1/2 and 4 5/8.
How to Test if Your Grip is Too Big
Once you have determined the right grip size for you, it is important to make sure that your grip is not too big. Here are a few signs that your grip is too big:
- Your hand is straining to hold the racket – If you find that your hand is straining to hold the racket, it is likely that your grip is too big. When your hand is straining, it can cause your arm to tire quickly and can lead to poor technique.
- Your fingers are too far apart – If you find that your fingers are too far apart when you hold the racket, it is likely that your grip is too big. When your fingers are too far apart, it can cause you to lose control of the racket.
- You are unable to hit shots with power or accuracy – If you are unable to hit shots with power or accuracy, it is likely that your grip is too big. When your grip is too big, it can cause you to lose control of the racket and can prevent you from generating power.
How to Change Your Grip Size
If you have determined that your grip is too big, there are a few ways to change the size of your grip.
Overgrip
The easiest way to change the size of your grip is to use an overgrip. An overgrip is a thin strip of material that wraps around your grip and reduces its size. Generally, one overgrip can reduce the size of your grip by one size.
Grip Tape
Grip tape is another way to change the size of your grip. Grip tape is a thin strip of adhesive tape that wraps around your grip and reduces its size. Generally, one strip of grip tape can reduce the size of your grip by one size.
Replacement Grip
If you want to permanently change the size of your grip, you can replace your grip altogether. You can purchase replacement grips in a variety of sizes and styles.
Conclusion
Having the right grip size is essential for playing your best tennis. Knowing how to measure your grip size and how to tell if your grip is too big will help you to play your best. By using an overgrip, grip tape, or a replacement grip, you can easily adjust the size of your grip.