With strings, tennis ace Maria Sharapova
1. Ask for advice:
Sports shops are a start, but pro shops at tennis clubs are better as they're manned by experts and have a range of demo rackets. Always try before you buy.
2. Get the right fit:
That means head size, weight and grip. Heads range from 90 to 135 sq ins. The bigger the head, the more shots will soar, so choose between 98 and 110 sq ins. Heavier rackets (320g plus) are more powerful than lighter ones but can feel like you're swinging a sledge hammer. Grips come in sizes 1 to 5: when you hold the racket, there should be a 1cm gap between your thumb and finger.
3. Think about strings:
They can have dramatic impact. Tight strings give more control, but looser ones offer more power. The thinner the string, the more you'll feel, but they'll break more often, too. Also, consider how many vertical strings your racket has. An open pattern (14 to 16 strings) will give you more spin on the ball, while a denser one (18+) means you'll hit more solidly.
