What Tension Do Tennis Pros Use?
Tennis pros use a range of tension levels to achieve their desired performance. The tension level of a racquet influences the power and accuracy of shots. Knowing how to adjust the tension of a racquet is one of the most important skills for a tennis pro to master.
What is Racquet Tension?
Racquet tension is the tightness of the strings in a tennis racquet. It is measured in pounds or kilograms and is usually between 50 and 70 pounds (23-31 kilograms). The tighter the strings, the more energy is transferred from the strings to the ball, resulting in a higher powered shot.
How Does Tension Affect Performance?
The tension of a racquet affects the performance of a shot in several ways. A higher tension will give more power and control, while a lower tension will provide more spin and feel.
Power: A higher tension will give more power to shots, making it easier to hit the ball further.
Control: A higher tension will give more control over shots, allowing you to hit the ball more accurately.
Spin: A lower tension will give more spin to the ball, making it easier to put spin on your shots.
Feel: A lower tension will give a more forgiving feel, making it easier to hit shots with less effort.
Which Tension Is Right For Me?
The right tension for a player depends on many factors, such as the player’s skill level, style of play, and racquet. A beginner or recreational player will likely use a lower tension to get more spin and feel. An advanced player may use a higher tension to get more power and control.
How Do I Adjust the Tension?
Adjusting the tension of a racquet is not a difficult task, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully. The first step is to loosen the strings by turning the hoop at the top of the racquet. Once the strings are loose, the tension can be adjusted by turning the tensioner at the bottom of the racquet. It is important to not over-tighten the strings, as this can cause damage to the racquet.
What is the Average Tension for Pros?
The average tension for pros is usually between 55 and 65 pounds (25-29 kilograms). This is a good starting point for most players, but it is important to remember that the best tension for each player depends on their individual abilities and playing style.
What Are the Benefits of Higher Tension?
Higher tension provides more power and control over shots. It is easier to hit shots with more power, and it is easier to hit shots with more accuracy. Higher tension also reduces the vibration in the racquet, making it more comfortable to play with.
What Are the Disadvantages of Higher Tension?
The main disadvantage of higher tension is that it is less forgiving. Shots that are slightly off-center will have less spin and may not have the desired effect. Higher tension also requires more skill and strength to hit shots, making it less suitable for beginners.
What Are the Benefits of Lower Tension?
Lower tension provides more spin and feel, making it easier to hit shots with spin. It is also more forgiving, allowing shots that are slightly off-center to still have the desired effect. Lower tension also requires less skill and strength to hit shots, making it suitable for beginners.
What Are the Disadvantages of Lower Tension?
The main disadvantage of lower tension is that it provides less power and control. Shots will not travel as far or as accurately. Lower tension also causes more vibration in the racquet, which can be uncomfortable for some players.
Conclusion
Tennis pros use a range of tension levels to achieve their desired performance. The tension level of a racquet affects the power, accuracy, spin and feel of a shot. The right tension for a player depends on their skill level and playing style. Higher tension provides more power and control, while lower tension provides more spin and feel. It is important to adjust the tension of a racquet carefully and not to over-tighten the strings.