Behind the Strings

Tennis has been constantly evolving since its inception. Advancements to tactics, techniques, equipment, and even players have been working all together to make the game better. One key, and often overlooked, advancement has been in the improvement of strings. Strings have come a long way in that now they are tailored made to mesh and enhance a player's specific needs. The following article briefly details some of the most common characteristics of strings and their relating functions.

STRING PATTERNS

There are two distinct string patterns, an open box and a closed box. Box refers to the square made by intersecting strings. The string pattern is specially designed to perform specific actions. A wide box pattern is more conducive to hitting the ball hard. A closed box pattern is more conducive to control, adding more spin.

TYPES OF STRING

There are several different types of strings and they come is a myriad of colors and thickness (or gauges). The most common gauges are 15, 16, 17, and 18. The lower the number translates into a thicker string. Why is this important? A thin string will allow a player to feel the ball more. This feel is important when trying to add different spins and when using touch shots, like the drop shot or lob. Strings can also be monofilament or multifilament, which has to do with a string strength and durability. Finally string can be either rough or smooth. This characteristic again is specifically designed for your playing style. If a player uses a ton of spin, a rough string will grip the ball better and help create that spin.

TENSION

The tension of strings refers to how tightly they are pulled. Tension is measured in either pounds (lbs) or kilogram (kg) depending on what measuring system your country is using. The higher the tension means the more control and less power the strings will impart on the ball. The lower the tension and the opposite is true (more power and less control). Higher tensions also create an opportunity for tennis elbow to occur while lower tensions can help relieve the symptoms (ie. pain) of tennis elbow. However, bear in mind that if the tension gets too low, then tennis elbow can still occur while losing all sense of control and power.

WHEN TO STRING

A simple rule of thumb for the recreational/weekend warrior player, with regards to the restringing of a tennis racquet, is: Restring the same number of times a year as you play in a week. For example, if a player plays 3 times a week, then they should be putting in new strings 3 times a year. For more advanced or serious players, restringing the racquet should occur far more often, at least once every couple of weeks. The simple fact of the matter is strings lose tension and simply go bad. The entire under lying current of tennis is to be consistent. It is extremely difficult to be consistent when a player cannot get a consistent reaction from their strings. Finally, bad strings can cause or at the very least create an opportunity for injury (ie. tennis elbow).

In conclusion, strings are an indispensable component to the game of tennis. A fresh string bed will allow a player to maximize their efforts while provided a sense of confidence. Be sure to string your racquets before hitting the courts. It can mean the difference between winning and losing!