Should beginners use polyester strings?

Usually not. Poly is stiff and loses tension quickly; it suits hard hitters who break strings. Beginners get more comfort and power from synthetic gut or multifilament.

What tension should a beginner string at?

The middle of the range printed on your racquet, often around 50 to 55 lbs. Go lower for more power and comfort, higher for more control.

How often should beginners restring?

A common rule is as many times per year as you play per week, so twice a week means restringing about twice a year.

Best Tennis Strings for Beginners

6 video lessons

Start soft: synthetic gut or a multifilament at mid tension.

Quick answer & tips ▾

Most beginners play best with a soft, forgiving string. Synthetic gut is cheap and plays fine, and a multifilament adds comfort and easy power, which helps when your swing is still short. Both are kind to the arm.

Hold off on full polyester. It controls big swings and lasts for string breakers, but it feels stiff, loses tension fast and can strain the elbow at a lower level. String around the middle of your racquet's tension range and adjust once you know how the ball feels.

Key tips

Synthetic gut is the best value first string.
Choose a multifilament if comfort or arm pain is a concern.
Start mid-range on tension; lower adds power, higher adds control.
Restring about as many times a year as you play per week.

FAQ

Should beginners use polyester strings?: Usually not. Poly is stiff and loses tension quickly; it suits hard hitters who break strings. Beginners get more comfort and power from synthetic gut or multifilament.
What tension should a beginner string at?: The middle of the range printed on your racquet, often around 50 to 55 lbs. Go lower for more power and comfort, higher for more control.
How often should beginners restring?: A common rule is as many times per year as you play per week, so twice a week means restringing about twice a year.