BBC Sport | Tennis | UK Edition

Showing posts with label Equipment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Equipment. Show all posts

Monday, April 25, 2011

New Or Used Tennis Equipment?




If you are trying to get started in tennis you have no doubt discovered that many of the different pieces of equipment that are necessary are a bit expensive. However, if you are willing to purchase some equipment used you can save a lot of money. The problem becomes determining what you can really purchase used without putting yourself at risk for injury, or even potential frustration. Savings money should never be a greater priority so it is important to follow the advice that is listed here if you are considering buying any used equipment.





Tennis Racquets are a piece of equipment where being new or used generally does not matter. However, while it is ok to choose used from a price perspective without jeopardizing safety it is also important to realize that you need to know exactly what you are looking for in a tennis racquet before you ever buy one used. If you are trying to find a power racquet and end up buying a tweener then you have just wasted your money. However, if you are looking for a racquet and manage to find one that is a level up, such as looking for a power racquet and finding a tweener then you can purchase the higher level racquet and hang onto it for later on. It is still important to use the recommended racquet in the meantime however.





Tennis balls are one of the biggest expenses that people tend to have simply because they need to be replaced so often. Generally speaking it is best to avoid used balls unless you know for sure that they are not pressurized. If you suspect that the ball is a pressureless and it still has a suitable fuzzy felt surface then you may be able to save a few dollars. However, you should check to ensure that they are the right type, remember tennis balls come in Basic, Extra duty and high altitude models.





The tennis bag is another place where you can save some money and buy used. As long as you carefully check the bag you should make out fine picking up a used model. This will allow you to reap some huge financial benefits. Key things to check are the zippers, pockets, the straps and any hardware that the bag includes. You do not want anything that is damaged. Additionally, you need to ensure that the bag is the suitable size. You are not going to save any money at all if it is the wrong size for your needs. You will still ultimately purchase a new bag in the correct size so avoiding this hassle is best.





The final pieces of equipment that you can buy used without problems are the various tennis clothes that you pick out. This is a great way to get a good deal on the tennis clothes that you need. However, while clothing is fair game, shoes are off limits. Never purchase used tennis shoes. You do not know how the other person has worn them; you do not know if they are worn out and the chances of used tennis shoes have less lateral support is quite high. This increases your chances of injury ultimately. Take the money you saved from buying the other equipment used and make sure you put it onto a good pair of tennis shoes that fit you properly.


Sunday, April 17, 2011

What Tennis Equipment Will You Need?




Of course there are the basics such as the balls but what are some of the other pieces of equipment that are needed in order to play effectively? Having the necessary tools of the trade is always essential in order to be successful and tennis is no exception. Having the right equipment can mean the difference between being able to play successfully or not being able to play because you do not have something that you need.





The first piece of equipment and what often comes to people’s mind first when they hear the word tennis is the tennis balls. It is important to ensure that you are purchasing the correct tennis balls. If you choose the wrong balls then you could have a huge problem with a lack of performance. However, knowing that balls come in several different types is important information to ensure that have exactly what you need.





Of course a racquet is important as well. Depending upon your exact skill level the type of racquet that you need may vary. If you are just starting to learn tennis expect to need to purchase at least two or three different racquets while you are learning as you move along the various skill levels. This will allow you to move up in skill level as you improve in your overall technique.





A good pair of tennis shoes is also essential. You need something that fits correctly, provides the right support for your foot, has plenty of lateral support built in and is designed to last. Simply walking into a store and buying the first pair of tennis shoes that you see will almost always result in a bad fit. You need to be prepared to spend some time really looking around to find the best shoes for your needs. If you are having difficulty selecting the right shoes talk to a professional at the store to get some advice based upon your needs and foot type.





Tennis bags are also essential. This will allow you to carefully store all of your things into a single bag. Going to practice is not like you are going on a miniature vacation so you do not need to take along numerous little suitcases. Instead you can take along a single tennis bag that holds all of your necessary equipment.





Other things that are nice to have include small towels, wristbands, a headband and even a hat or visor to help keep the sun out of your eyes. These things combined with some good sunscreen will work to ensure that you are comfortable out on the court and off the court. If you do not have everything that you need then you can generally pick them up at virtually any sports store that is available. Never try to use equipment that is worn out, broken or that does not suit your needs based upon your skill level. This means if you need to use a power racquet you should not attempt to use a control racquet.





As far as tennis apparel goes, different places have different rules. Some require solid colored outfits while others have no problems with colors and patterns. Check with your local tennis club, instructor or anyone else similar to see exactly what is required for where you plan to play at. This will ensure that you are always appropriately dressed for their needs and requirements.