Geaux Health & Fitness Magazine June 2014 | Page 12

geaux 'n style is it time for a restring? by Sally Calongne Sponsored By When is it time to restring a racquet? If a string “pops”, or breaks, that is an easy sign! But, how many players actually pop strings on a regular basis? The typical rule of thumb for restringing a racquet is based on the number of times a week the racquet is used. For example, if a player uses the same racquet three times a week, then he should restring his racquet three times a year. Even if a player only plays tennis a handful of times a year, he should probably restring his racquet at least once a year. Why? Well, strings lose their tension and elasticity over time making them feel “dead” requiring more effort from the player. With fresh strings, the ball feels “crisper” and jumps off the racquet! Deciding to restring a racquet is only the first step, however. Who restrings racquets? What type of strings? What gauge? What tension? With so many questions and choices, it can be very confusing and overwhelming, but Match Point Tennis & Fitness Boutique can take care of everything! Match Point has experienced stringers that can evaluate racquets and recommend appropriate strings, gauge, and tension for players based on their levels free of charge. Strings Strings are made of different materials and typically fall into four categories: Natural Gut, Multifilament, Monofilament, and Polyester. Natural Gut will provide players with the most feel and touch while Polyester will provide players with the most durability. Multifilament and Monofilament are made from synthetic gut material and provide players with a good balance of comfort and durability. Gauge The gauge, or thickness, of the strings affects how the strings behave. The larger the gauge number, the thinner the string. For example, 18-gauge is a thinner string than 16-gauge. A thinner string offers greater feel and comfort. A thicker string offers better durability. Tension Each string and racquet has its own recommended tension range. Reducing the tension will make the strings give more on impact with the ball generating more power and comfort. Increasing the tension will make the string bed stiffer allowing greater control. All of this information may be a little too much to absorb at once. Here are three easy steps: 1. Find your tennis racquet. 2. Take your racquet to Match Point Tennis & Fitness Boutique for a free as