Power Racquet vs. Control Racquet question

[govols]

All other things being equal, does a control racquet provide more spin potential than a power racquet?

[onkystomper]

That question is dependant on so many different variables that it is impossible to answer

[govols]

I was afraid of that!

[travlerajm]

Here are some general rules, that apply if all other variables are equal:

More flex = more spin.

Lighter = more spin.

Control racquet = more flex and heavier = more spin and more depth control.

Heavier racquet = more depth control.

Stiffer racquet = more power.

Stiffer racquet = more directional accuracy.

[jasonbourne]

To add to travlerajm's contribution.

1. A heavier frame generates more power.
2. A heavier frame vibrates less.
3. A stiffer frame generates more power.
4. A more flexible frame transmits more vibration to the arm than a stiff frame.
5. A stiffer frame transmits more of the shock load to the arm than a more flexible frame.
6. A stiffer frame provides a more uniform ball response across the entire string plane.
7. A larger frame (either be being longer, or by having a larger hitting surface) generates more power.
8. A larger frame is more resistant to twisting.
9. A longer frame generates more velocity and therefore more power.
10. The string bed in a longer frame allows the generation of more spin due to increased velocity.
11. A head-light, flexible frame is better for your arm than a stiff, head-heavy frame.

[govols]

good info....tanx much

[LowProfile]

For even more detailed information about everything you need to know about racquets, go here.

http://www.racquetresearch.com/

Stiffer frame gives more power?

[travlerajm]

Originally Posted by LowProfile

For even more detailed information about everything you need to know about racquets, go here.

http://www.racquetresearch.com/

This website has useful info, but the answer to the question in the OP is noticeably not addressed. And the authors comments regarding racquet choice for spin potential, control, string tension and headsize are grossly inaccurate. It's a case of someone with a decent grasp of physics, but without any experience playing tennis at a high level, who forgets to test some of his theories in practice.

[onkystomper]

Originally Posted by newton

Stiffer frame gives more power?

yes that is generally correct

[travlerajm]

Originally Posted by newton

Stiffer frame gives more power?

Yes, correct as long as other variables are the same. Keep in mind that most stiffer "power" racquets tend to be made lighter than the more flexible "control" racquets, and the lighter weight tends to neutralize most of the extra power while adding some spin potential. If you add weight to a "power" racquet until the weight distribution is the same as a typical control racquet, the stiffer frame will be much more powerful, with noticeably more directional accuracy, but also much less spin.