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If you are now serious about making tennis a part of your life, then you need certain equipment for your new lifestyle. But don't take your credit card out just yet. There is no need to go crazy and buy the most expensive gear is you're just a beginner. Look for basics that will teach you good form and simply upgrade later as your skills improve.
Tennis Balls
Tennis balls for tournament play have to be either white or yellow on the outside. According to the International Tennis Federation, the ball should measure at least 2.5 inches and no more than 2.63 inches in diameter. The ball also has to bounce no less than 53 inches and no more than 58 inches when dropped from a 100-inch height.
Racket Strings
Strings these days are made of so many types of material, most commonly for advanced players, nylon. It's not so much about the sting itself but how it is strung. There a number of different tennis string tensions, and the right tension dependson your playing style.
Racket Frame
When looking for a racket frame, make sure to choose a weight and thickness that is suitable for your size and strength. A heavier racket can give you more power but might tire you out quicker. The only way to select a racket is through trial and error, so it's likely that you will go through several rackets until you find the perfect fit.
Tennis Clothes
There are typically no restrictions on what players can wear, except at the Wimbledon championships in England (players have to wear all-white clothes). For regular games and training, comfort should be your top consideration. White fabrics are known to reflect the sun while keeping the wearer cooler, but now that technological sportswear is all the rage, the color is irrelevant. Stay away from cotton and go for ClimaLite or Dri-Fitfor maximum moisture wicking. Wear shorts or tennis pants with pockets so you can keep a ball or two on your person when serving. This saves time while retaining fluency.
Racquet Bag
These bags are shaped to accommodate your racquet's contours and often come with pockets where you can store other gear such as cans of balls, accessories, and extra clothes. Be sure to choose a bag with a shoulder strap. Slimmer bags can hold one to two racquets, but you might also want to buy something wider and bulkier models to store three or more racquets as well as more accessories such as a towel, water bottle, and sunscreen.
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