Davis Racquet Service is a stringing and racquet service operation run by Kim in Colorado Springs. She and Jon are members of the United States Racquet Stringers Association (USRSA), the only organization dedicated to the methods and technologies associated with racquet stringing and service.Many people are unaware of how the mechanics of their racquet (string, weight, power factor, etc.) affect their game. As a USPTA Professional and a trained racquet stringer, Kim is able to analyze your game and discuss with you your best racquet and servicing options. Below is some basic information on how often you should have your racquet serviced, why it's so important to your game and health, and some care tips to ensure you get the most out of your racquet.
There are many good reasons to get your racquet serviced by Kim. Here are a few:
If you live in the Colorado Springs area and would like to get your racquet serviced, please contact Kim to discuss your needs and arrange to have your racquet worked on.
Racquet Facts and Things About Strings
Your tennis racquet is your tool in performing your tennis game. As such, it's important to understand a little about this tool and how the various parameters of your racquet and its stringing job relate to your game and health (tennis elbow - factors that produce more power are generally better for the elbow). We've included some basic information here to help you understand some of these issues. You can read about some of the common questions and answers that many players have about racquet stringing and why it needs to be done, some facts about racquets from the USRSA, some information about strings and stringing factors from the USRSA, and some tips on caring for your new racquet or stringing job. If you have further questions, please contact Kim to discuss your specific needs.
Some Questions and Answers About Racquet Stringing
Q: My racquet string isn't broken, do I need to get it strung?
A: Stringing isnt just for racquets with broken strings! While this the most obvious time that your racquet requires stringing, there are others. Just as the mattress on your bed loses its spring over time and with use, your racquet strings lose their spring (tension) with time and use. Its this tension that gives your racquet its power, control, and feel. The longer its been since your racquet was strung or the more youve played with your racquet, the greater the need for stringing. You may be surprised how much different and better your racquet will play after being re-strung.
Q: How often should I have my racquet strung?
A: If you play occasionally throughout the year, you should have your racquet strung at the beginning of every season. If you play a moderate amount, you should have your racquet strung at the beginning and midway through the season. If you play a lot of tennis, you should have your racquet strung three or four times during the season. If you play aggressive, hard hitting tennis or play at a level where you rely on consistency from your racquet, you should have it strung on a regular basis. Finally, if youre a professional on tour, you should have your racquet strung a few times during each tournament! A good rule of thumb is to have your racquet strung as many times per year as you play in a week (e.g.: if you play 3 times per week, string 3 times per year).
Q: What type of string should I use?
A: There are many different types of string on the market to choose from. The standard strings will work for most applications. Consult your tennis pro to help you determine what string will work best for your style of tennis and level of play.
Q: At what tension should I get my racquet strung?
A: Generally speaking, more tension gives you more control and less tension gives you more power. However, there are many more variables that factor into this decision such as your type of racquet and your style and type of play (see racquet and string facts below). Consult your tennis pro for advice on your best stringing combination. They will have a good, objective feel for your game and can ask questions to help lead you to the right decision.
Q: Where can I get my racquet strung?
A: Kim Davis is a member of the U.S. Racquet Stringers Association and is very well equipped to string your racquet! She can also provide other racquet services such as re-gripping, grommet repair or replacement, and grip build-up. See the pricing page for information on services and prices or contact Kim with any questions.
Ten Facts about Racquets
Here are ten facts about racquets from USRSA technical advisor Steve Davis. This information is provided by the United States Racquet Stringers Association.
These facts are presented as generalities. While a stiffer frame generates more power, a stiff frame badly strung may generate less power than a more flexible frame properly strung for power players. While a heavier frame generates more power, it can also decrease maneuverability.
1. A heavier frame generates more power.
2. A heavier frame vibrates less.
3. A heavier frame has a larger sweetspot.
4. A stiffer frame generates more power.
5. A stiffer frame has a larger sweetspot.
6. A stiffer frame transmits more of the shock load to the arm than a more flexible frame.
7. A stiffer frame provides a more uniform ball response across the entire string plane.
8. A larger frame generates more power.
9. A larger frame is more resistant to twisting.
10. A larger frame has a larger sweetspot.
Nine Facts About Strings
Here are nine basic facts about strings from USRSA technical advisor Steve Davis. This information provided by the United States Racquet Stringers Association.
1. Lower string tensions generate more power (providing string movement does not occur).
2. Higher string tensions generate more ball control (for experienced players).
3. A longer string length (or string plane area) produces more power.
4. Decreased string density (fewer strings) generates more power.
5. Thinner string generates more power
6. More elastic strings generate more power (generally, what will produce more power will also absorb more shock load at impact).
7. Softer strings, or strings with a softer coating, tend to vibrate less.
8. Thinner strings tend to produce more spin.
9. Decreased string density (fewer strings) generates more spin.
Racquet Care
Now that you've got that new racquet or new stringing job, how do you ensure you get the most use from it before it wears out? Here are a few tips:
- Don't leave the racquet in your automobile! Excessive heat and cold are some of the worst things to which you can subject your racquet and strings.
- Don't leave the racquet cooped up in its bag or cover right after a match, especially in areas of high heat and humidity. When you get home, leave the racquet out or the bag unzipped to allow the racquet to "air out".
Take care not to scrape your racquet on the ground. While it's not possible to avoid this at all times in the heat of the match, be sure not to drag your racquet or hit it in frustration on the court. When the head guard wears down, there is no more protection for the strings and they are open to breaking from the abuse.
Change your grommet strip and head guard when needed. The stresses from playing and stringing ultimately lead to failure of the grommets. Inspect your grommets - splits, tears, or breaks can lead to strings breaking. Occasional problems can be repaired, but excessive problems or a worn head guard requires replacement as soon as possible.
- Inspect your strings often. Stresses from playing take their toll on the strings. You may begin to notice some fraying or "notching" in the strings from playing. To ensure you don't break a string on a critical point, be sure to have your racquet serviced before it's too late - the racquet strings may give you clues.