How to Check the Balance of a Tennis Racquet

Tennis racquets are not "one size fits all." Several criteria go into selecting a tennis racquet including diameter, head size, weight and balance. Balance is determined by the head size, weight of the racquet and the diameter of the head itself, so in essence, the balance is a combination of all the other criteria. Balance affects the "sweet spot" in the racquet center as the heavier the racquet, the balance moves in relation to the best spot on the strings for hitting the ball.

Instructions

    • 1

      Read the dimensions of the racquet on the side of the handle, just above the handle tape or cork. Look for the head diameter, handle diameter and the grip width. Some racquets have the weight listed on the side as well.

    • 2

      Find the weight. If the weight is over seven ounces, the balance on the racquet is slightly higher toward the racquet strings. The sweet spot moves more to the upper center of the racquet as a result.

    • 3

      Hold the tennis racquet by the handle and hold your hand up so the thumb and fingers are parallel to the ground. Place the racquet handle at the crux of the thumb and forefinger and move it until the balance between the head and the handle is equal, letting it rest on the thumb-finger angle.

    • 4

      Use the Step 3 criteria as the balance of the tennis racquet -- the focal point where the weight shifts from handle to head.