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Tennis equipment

Tennis, a demanding but exciting sport, is more than just a simple exchange of balls. Your equipment plays a fundamental role in your progress and your enjoyment of the game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, choosing the right equipment can transform your experience. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know to be well-equipped and successful on the court.

Why is equipment so important in tennis?

Raquette de tennis

The right equipment allows you to play in optimum conditions , while preventing injury and maximising your enjoyment of the game. Your equipment, from shoes to accessories to your racket, plays a key role in your performance and comfort.
Your equipment has a direct influence on your performance on the court. For example, a racket adapted to your playing style can improve your shots and limit muscle fatigue. Specific footwear reduces the risk of injury, while technical clothing ensures optimum comfort by regulating perspiration. Finally, accessories such as an anti-vibration system or a well-organised tennis bag are essential additions to your game.

Snowshoeing: a science of precision

Préparation amorti

The racket is the central component of your equipment. Choosing the right racket is essential, because it has a direct impact on your performance, your playing comfort and even your health(tennis elbow racket). Choosing the ideal racket involves considering a number of aspects, such as your level, playing style and body shape. There are also different types of racket for different ages (adult tennis racket, children’s tennis racket, junior tennis racket).
 

Here’s how to choose your tennis racket:

  • The weight

    A lightweight racquet (260-290 g) is ideal for beginners and players who need manoeuvrability. It makes it easy to perform technical strokes without putting too much strain on the arm. On the other hand, a heavier model (300g or more) is recommended for experienced players looking for more power and stability when hitting the ball. Be careful, though: a racket that is too heavy can cause muscle pain if you’re not in good physical condition.

  • The head size

    A wide sieve, larger than 645 cm², is particularly suitable for beginners. It offers a larger hitting surface, which reduces errors and increases tolerance. Intermediate or advanced players often opt for a medium or small screen (600-645 cm²), as it offers greater precision and control, but requires a more advanced technique.

  • The balance

    A head-balanced racquet (balance point over 32.5 cm) favours powerful shots and is ideal for offensive players. Conversely, a handle-balanced racquet (less than 32 cm) offers greater control and better manoeuvrability, making it ideal for defensive or technical players.

  • The grip size

    A well-fitting grip is essential to avoid wrist or elbow pain. If the handle is too small, you will have to grip it tighter, which can cause strain. Conversely, a handle that’s too large can limit your ability to perform certain precise movements. Test several sizes to find the one that fits your hand perfectly. So it’s important to choose the right handle size for your tennis racket.

  • Try before you buy

    We strongly advise you to test several models before making your choice. The ideal racket should not only meet your technical needs but also offer a pleasant feel right from the start. Many clubs and specialist shops offer trial sessions to help you find the perfect model.

The string: The soul of your racket

Stringing is often underestimated, but it has a direct influence on your feel and performance. The type of string you choose depends on your needs in terms of comfort, power and control.

Here are a few examples of strings: monofilament tennis strings, multifilament tennis strings, natural gut tennis strings, nylon tennis strings, polyester tennis strings, hybrid tennis strings, Kevlar tennis strings, etc.

Change your tennis racket strings regularly, even if they seem to be in good condition. A simple rule: change it as often as you play per week in a year.

Choosing the right string tension is a key factor intennis performance.

  • A low tension (20-23 kg) favours power.
  • A high tension (24-28 kg) offers better control.

In our various articles, you’ll find a guide to tennis stringing and the tennis string tensions of professional players.
 

Bullets: a key element that is often underestimated

Balles de tennis

Tennis balls have a direct influence on the quality of your rallies. Choosing a tennis ball depends on your level, your goals and the surface you play on.

Types of ball :

  • Foam tennis ball : perfect for children or beginners.
  • Mini tennis ball: softer, with a lower bounce for better control and longer rallies.
  • Intermediate ball: low-pressure ball for gradual learning with a controlled bounce.
  • Pressurised balls: dynamic and suitable for competitions, they are ideal for experienced players but lose their quality quickly.
  • Unpressurised tennis ball : more resistant, an economical option for longer training sessions.

To prolong their life, store them in an airtight tube and avoid temperature variations.
 

Footwear: protection and performance

Chaussures de tennis

Tennis puts an intense strain on your feet and joints, making it essential to choose the right shoes.

Criteria for choosing tennis shoes:

  • Playing surface: Tennis shoes for clay courts have herringbone soles. On hard surfaces, choose reinforced cushioning. On grass, special studs ensure good grip.
  • Cushioning: Protect your knees and ankles with good cushioning to absorb impact.
  • Comfort: Make sure your shoes fit properly to avoid blisters and soreness.
     

Take the time to try on several models in shop, ideally wearing your usual socks.

Clothing: Combining comfort and style

Tennis clothing is more than just an aesthetic choice. They play a crucial role in guaranteeing your freedom of movement, regulating your body temperature and providing optimum comfort during training sessions or matches, whatever the weather conditions.

Tips for dressing well

  • In summer

    Choose lightweight, breathable clothing, such as tank tops, T-shirts or polo shirts made from technical fabrics. These fabrics efficiently wick away perspiration to keep you dry, even during the most intense matches. Shorts or skirts should fit snugly to allow freedom of movement without restricting your movements. Complete your outfit with a cap or headband to protect your face from the sun and prevent perspiration from dripping into your eyes.

  • revers à demain tennis terre battue

    In winter

    Opt for layered clothing. Start with thermal underwear to keep in the heat, add a breathable long-sleeved top and finish with a lightweight windproof jacket. For bottoms, opt for fitted trousers or leggings designed for tennis, which will keep you warm while allowing you to move freely. Thin gloves and ear muffs are also useful if you’re playing outdoors.

  • The importance of technical subjects

    Synthetic materials such as polyester or breathable blends are ideal for tennis. They wick away moisture, reduce friction and offer great elasticity to support your movements. Technical materials are preferable, as cotton absorbs moisture and can become uncomfortable during prolonged activity.
    Well-thought-out clothing ensures optimum comfort and helps you concentrate, so you can perform effectively on the court.

Accessories: Details that count

coaching tennis adulte patrick mouratoglou

Accessories, often regarded as secondary, are in fact essential for improving your comfort and performance on the court. If they’re well chosen, they’re the perfect complement to your main equipment.

  • The tennis bag

    A suitable bag is essential for carrying all your equipment. Choose a model with thermal compartments to protect your rackets from temperature variations. These bags often have several pockets for organising your accessories, such as balls, clothes or shoes. Models with ventilated pockets are ideal for storing your belongings after an intense match.

  • Grips and overgrips

    Grips ensure a firm, comfortable grip on your racket. They absorb perspiration and prevent the racket from slipping when you hit the ball. Overgrips can be easily fitted over the top of the racket to extend their life or improve the grip. Replace them regularly to maintain good control and avoid blisters.

  • The dampener

    This accessory reduces the vibrations felt when striking the ball, offering greater comfort and reducing the risk of pain, particularly in the arm and elbow. Although discreet, it plays an important role, especially for players who use rigid strings. Knowing where to put the anti-vibration pad on your racket will give you greater impact.

  • Technical socks

    Tennis-specific socks, reinforced at the heel and ball of the foot, prevent rubbing and reduce the risk of blisters. They also keep your feet dry thanks to breathable materials.

  • Additional accessories

    Finally, an insulated water bottle to keep you hydrated, a light, absorbent microfibre towel and a headband or cap for sunny days are all details that improve your comfort on the court. With these accessories, you’ll be playing in optimal conditions, whatever the circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Equipment that is well suited to your level and your needs is essential if you are to get the most out of your experience on the court.

    • Racquets: Choose a racquet suited to your level (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and body shape. Take into account weight, head size and balance.
    • Balls: Select balls according to your level and the playing surface. For example, intermediate balls for learning or pressurised balls for competitions.
    • Shoes: Wear tennis-specific shoes that are suited to the surface (clay, grass, hard surface) and offer good cushioning to protect your joints.
    • Clothing: Choose breathable technical clothing that allows you to move freely and regulate your body temperature.
    • Accessories: Think about a bag to carry your equipment, grips or overgrips for optimum comfort, an anti-vibration device to reduce vibrations and a water bottle to stay hydrated.
  • What you wear depends on the weather conditions and your comfort level. Here are a few tips:

    • In summer: Wear light, breathable clothing, such as shorts, skirts or tank tops, designed to wick away perspiration. Add a cap or headband to protect you from the sun and limit perspiration on your face.
    • In winter: Layer on technical layers to stay warm without compromising your freedom of movement. Thermal underwear, a breathable long-sleeved top and a light jacket are perfect. Don’t forget thin gloves and head protection if you’re playing outdoors.
    • Shoes and socks: Wear tennis-specific shoes with reinforced socks to prevent blisters and ensure good support.

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