As a teaching pro, I am constantly asked by competitive and social tennis players which racquet they should switch to.
In today’s world of significantly advanced technology, this is not such a simple question to answer as much of the decision-making has to do with a particular player’s abilities.
Most racquets with thick beams are also very stiff racquets. This would be more forgiving on a player’s arm and will offer more power (Wilson Juice is a good example). These stiffer racquets are usually lighter racquets as well.
Thinner racquets, such as the one Roger Federer uses, are more flexible and generally offer more control over the ball. Thinner, more flexible racquets could also be heavier as well.
The heavier a racquet is, the more stability it offers to control power and also adds more power with a controlled swing. Therefore, if a player does not have very strong technique, meaning: (1) preparation is not fully correct, (2) footwork is not correct, and (3) follow through is not correct then a thicker, stiffer, and lighter racquet would be a good choice (ex. Wilson Juice or Burn).
If a player has: (1) good preparation, (2) strong footwork, and (3) a technically sound follow-through then a thinner, more flexible and heavier racquet would be a good idea. (ex. Wilson Blade and Pro Staff).
Therefore, when selecting your next stick understand your game’s strengths and weaknesses and pick the right racquet for your game!
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About the author: Eric Hechtman is Tennis Director at Royal Palm Tennis Club, located in Pinecrest, Florida, Miami-Dade County. As well as running the teaching programs at Royal Palm, Eric was named USTA Junior Competitive Coach of the Year 2013 and one of his students, Chase Perez Blanco, was named the Junior Player of the Year 2013.
Hechtman is a hitting partner for Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Venus Williams and Serena Williams. Eric enjoys teaching all levels but specializes in fitness, technique and strategy at the intermediate to advance level.