Player Size vs. Racquet Length

[Safinite]

It's been discussed that about 40% of the ATP tour uses extended length racquets and even more of the WTA does. It has also been mentioned that players with two handed backhands tend to use extended frames more often. My real question though has to do with the size of the player. Some people say that very short people should use longer frames for extra reach, some say the opposite and that only very large people should use them so they can reach lower and they can handle the extra length. What do you guys think? It benefits shorter players, taller players, everybody with a two handed backhand?

 

[chaz_233]

I'm on the shorter side, have a single handed BH and use an extended length racket. It has helped me with reach and serves. No disadvantage that I can tell yet.

 

[autumn_leaf]

i think if you can use one without sacrificing maneuverability then do it. more of a if: positive > negative standpoint.

also how did u get an avatar with only 26 posts?

 

[freelancer]

I'm 5'11" and I use an extended racquet.

... Saying that makes me feel like I'm at an AA meeting.

 

[Safinite]

So what constitutes whether a player cna use it without sacrificing how the racquet maneuvers? Just a feel thing? BTW on the AA thing, the first step to fixing your problem is admitting you have one... And as far as my avatar, I really have no idea how I have it, how many posts do you need to get one?

 

[chaz_233]

Trial and error, different lengths, different brands and that's how we end up with dozens of rackets that we don't need.

So what constitutes whether a player cna use it without sacrificing how the racquet maneuvers? Just a feel thing? BTW on the AA thing, the first step to fixing your problem is admitting you have one... And as far as my avatar, I really have no idea how I have it, how many posts do you need to get one?

 

[blubber]

The thing I didn't like abouta 28 inch extended length frame was that I felt detached from my shots on the forehand side. Plus i had to choke up a lot on volleys and spin serves. Flat serves and 2 hbhs were very nice.

For me 27.5 inches is the most I'll use. I liked the feel on frames that are 27.25 inches.

 

[krz]

If you can control it a longer racket is beneficial.

Longer rackets give you more leverage which = more power, specially on serves. And more reach when stretched out. I think a lot of short players do like to use extended length rackets. ala Micheal Chang.

Of course this is assuming you can control it. A longer racket is going to have a higher swing weight all other things being equal. And less maneuverable.

personally I'm only 5'6-5'7 and I'm using a standard 27" (K6.1)

I used to use a HTour that was weighted to be 5pts HL and that was 27.25" but I didn't think it makes that much of a difference.