Rally Ready: A Beginner's Guide to Choosing Your First Racquet

Kerry Chu
Guide
March 18, 2024

If you’ve been hitting the courts as a beginner in tennis and are now ready to take your game more seriously, you might find yourself thinking, “Hmm… perhaps it’s time I invested in my own racquet instead of relying on borrowed ones from the pro shop or friends. But where do I start?” If that’s you, then this blog is here to help.

Step 1: Explore Racquet Options

Begin by delving into the world of tennis racquets. Research different models that pique your interest and that you’d like to try out.

PS. Check out my blog Start Strong, Stay Stronger: Beginner-Friendly Racquets for Long-Term Play for recommendations.

Step 2: Locate Demo Racquets

Most tennis centers offer a variety of demo racquets for potential buyers. Check their website or give them a call to ensure they have the specific demo racquets you’re interested in.

Step 3: Bring a Hitting Partner

It’s best to bring along a friend who plays tennis, ideally someone who’s at a similar skill level or even better. Having a hitting partner allows you to fully test the racquets, and they can offer valuable feedback and advice.

Step 4: Reserve a Court

Once you’ve selected a tennis center with demo racquets, book a court for your testing session. Some centers may waive the court fee if you end up purchasing a racquet—always worth asking!

Step 5: Test Drive

On the court, select a few racquets to try out. Keep in mind that most centers have a limit on how many racquets you can borrow at once, so plan your time accordingly. When testing, be sure to try out various shots, including forehands, backhands, serves, volleys, slices, and more. Pay attention to how each racquet feels during different types of shots and how it affects your performance.

Also, consider factors like endurance—will you tire quickly with this racquet, or can you play comfortably for extended periods?

Take Notes

Throughout your testing, jot down your impressions of each racquet. You can refer to sample evaluation notes here for guidance. These notes will be invaluable when making your final decision.