String tension is one of the most important factors in badminton. It significantly affects the performance of your racket and can make the difference between winning and losing. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about string tension, including why it’s important and how to choose the right string tension for your skill level.
What is String Tension?
String tension is simply the amount of tension placed on the strings of your racket. The more tension you have, the stiffer the strings will be. The less tension you have, the more flexible the strings will be.
Why is String Tension Important in Badminton?
String tension is important because it affects the trajectory of the shuttlecock (or “birdie”). If the string tension is too loose, the birdie will not go as far. If the string tension is too tight, the birdie will not have enough power behind it. Additionally, a racquet with too much string tension can cause arm pain or injuries.
Read More: Choosing correct badminton racket based on weight.
Why String Tension is Different for Each Skill Level?
The recommended string tension varies depending on your skill level. Beginners should use a lower string tension because they are still learning how to hit the birdie properly. Advanced and professional players should use a higher string tension because they have more control over their shots.
A. Beginners (17 – 21 lbs, 7.8 – 9.4 kg)
Low-string tension is recommended for beginners because it creates a large sweet spot. A large sweet spot is beneficial because beginners often have difficulty hitting the shuttlecock at a precise location on the racket. To successfully hit your target time and time again, you need lots of practice. A large sweet spot gives beginners the room for error that they need to land their shots.
Furthermore, beginners often have trouble generating power in their shots because it usually takes time to develop the precise form and swing to produce power. The lower tension setting on this racket provides players with more power and is perfect for beginners.
B. Intermediate (21 – 25 lbs, 9.5 – 11.0 kg)
Intermediate players should use a medium string tension. This tension is not as forgiving as the low-string tension, but it provides more control over the shuttlecock. Control becomes more important for intermediate players, while power and sweet spot size are less of an issue.
As per experience, players at the intermediate level shouldn’t aim to go over 26 lbs (11.8 kg) because they likely won’t be able to keep up their power, which may cause a decline in performance.
C. Advanced and Professionals (25+ lbs, 11.2+ kg)
The high string tension is perfect for advanced and professional players. They have developed the form, power, and control needed to hit the shuttlecock at a precise spot on the racket.
This level of play requires a higher string tension to maintain that accuracy and precision. We recommend a string tension of at least 24 or 25 lbs (11 kg) for advanced players because they don’t have problems with small sweet spots, require precise control, and can generate similar power even with high tensions.
In badminton, most top-level players use string tensions that fall between 28 and 36 pounds (13.5 to 16 kg). These players have dedicated their lives to the sport and know how to use high-string tension for more power. We only recommend these high strings when you are willing to put in the extra effort.
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Conclusion:
Choosing the right string tension can make a big difference in your badminton game. If you’re a beginner, start with lower string tension and work your way up as you develop your skills. If you’re an advanced or professional player, aim for a higher string tension so you can better control your shots.
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