Racquet Speed training device

[mattlikovich]

Hey guys,

I saw this one weight attachment that goes on the lower oval of your racquet, right above the throat area. There are interchangable weights, and what its supposed to do, is be harder to swing, making your muscles stronger. As a result, you can generate more racquet head speed when its off, which is more power. What do you guys think about this? Will it work?


Matt

[Power Game]

Stuff like that does work, you're talking about the Power Disc right?
The problem with it is that if you have too much weight it will won't enable you to take full swings. If you use it just add weight gradually. Also, if you don't want to spend the money for it grab a wooden racquet (which are generally heavier than modern racquets, and it will help coordination) or take an old racquet and load it with lead tape, try to keep the same balance as your regular racquets

[TennsDog]

I think practicing with wooden rackets is a great idea. I think using them during the off-season could help a lot with strength, consistancy, stroke mechanics, etc. They are pretty much the ultimate player's rackets which are really demanding. I actually played with both an old wooden racket and my NXG one day and found the transition very easy between the two which is good. I just don't think you should use wooden rackets or trainging devices like the Power Disc during the season, though, because that is when you want to do fine-tuning and be in touch with your equipment. That could be bad for your game. The Power Disc is just like the weighted donuts that baseball players use in the on-deck circle so it can't be too bad of an idea.

[Power Game]

Tennisdog, I also play with a wooden racquet (Slazenger Starfire) and find the transition to my Tour 90s very nice

[Kobble]

Why not get some of those stretch cords and tie one from a pole to an old durable frame. The static weight of the racquet would be the same, but a resistance would be added.

[Tim Tennis]

I think anything you do to strengthen the muscles in your hand and forearm is great for tennis. I use a old wooden racquet with the press on it, even use a baseball bat and rotate the wrist, but my favorite is an old racquet with cardboard taped to both sides. I practice all my shots, forehand, backhand, and serve. The affect of the wind resistance works the muscles all the way through the stroke. Work out with this a few times and there will be a significant increase in the racquet head speed you can generate.

You got to love the game.

[Tomek]

Training with heavier racquets can strenghten your muscles and is good for injury prevention. But it's rather not gonna give you more power on your strokes. Improve your technique, so that you can hit harder and stay in!

[Tim Tennis]

Hi Tomek,

You said, "But it's rather not gonna give you more power on your strokes. Improve your technique, so that you can hit harder and stay in!"

I respectfully disagree to some extent. Absolutely, it has to start with technique but power and strength have to be built into the equation. If that is not the case them the women could compete with the men.

You got to love the game.