Racquet Grips

When picking up a tennis racquet, it can be easy to think that something as simple as the length of the handle will not pose a problem.

In actuality, racquet grips are an important part of building your game and can make the difference between a sweet shot and one that is just wide. Worse still, a poor racquet grip can injure you; if the grip is too large it can strain your hand, while a grip that is too small can have a negative effect on your wrist and elbow.

Therefore, it is extremely important to measure your own grip and find a racquet to suit. To find out exactly what your racquet grip is, follow these steps:

• Hold your dominant hand out flat.

• Using a ruler or tape measure, measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger.

• Note this measurement down; this is your grip size.

For tennis players, the racquet grip size is usually under 4”. It is important, however, as you grow to continually measure this area and ensure the size is still correct. Most adult male players have grips of 4 3/8” and 4 5/8”, while women's is between 4 1/8” and 4 3/8”. It is worth remembering that if your measurement includes half of an eighth, round up to the higher figure for the best result.

With your size known, you can now begin the process of finding a racquet to suit your game.