DONE DEAL: Tennis has finally won the race and a dream Player worth $142.3million for two years contract…
You don’t have to be the next global superstar to join the nearly 18 million people estimated to be playing tennis in the U.S.
In fact, with cooler weather on the way and outdoor activities and social distancing increasingly encouraged, now might be the perfect time to visit your local tennis center, particularly given the physical and mental health benefits associated with playing the sport.
As with many activities, tennis offers plenty of bells and whistles for prospective players to invest in. That said, it doesn’t ultimately require a huge investment to play. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need to get out there and start a rally today, and a few things you can leave until later.
The most essential tool for any amateur tennis player is the racket, and while prices do vary, purchasing one doesn’t require a massive investment. Still, it’s important to make sure you’re buying a tennis racket that’s made for your swing and skill level if you want to give yourself the best chance to improve.
A basic rule of thumb when buying a tennis racket is that the larger the head is, the easier it is to make solid contact and the more forgiving the racket will be. There are benefits to using a racket with a smaller head—skilled players may find that a smaller racket lends itself to more precision, for example—but for a true beginner, a racket with an “oversized” head is a good place to start.
When it comes to weight, a typical racket will range from 9 to 11 ounces, and a lighter racket is recommended for new players, who may find a heavier racket cumbersome over the course of a match or lesson. Other related factors include length and grip size. Most adult rackets range from 26 to 29 inches long, but while a longer racket may give you a more powerful serve or an extra bit of reach, it can come at a cost of a heavier frame. As for grip size, all you need is a ruler to determine what’s best for you.