Tennis Racquets for Tennis Elbow

7 video lessons

What to look for in an arm-friendly setup.

Quick answer & tips ▾

An arm-friendly racquet absorbs shock instead of passing it to your elbow. Look for a lower stiffness rating (roughly 65 RA or under), enough weight to stay stable on contact (light, stiff frames tend to be harsh), a head size around 100 square inches for a forgiving sweet spot and the right grip size so you are not squeezing.

Strings matter as much as the frame. A soft multifilament or natural gut at a lower tension is far gentler than a stiff polyester strung tight. Equipment helps, but late contact, a wristy swing and squeezing the grip are common causes too, so pair a comfortable setup with technique work, and see a doctor or physical therapist if pain persists.

Key tips

  • Lower stiffness (about 65 RA or under) and a stable, not ultralight, frame.
  • Soft multifilament or gut, a few pounds lower tension.
  • Check your grip size; too small makes you squeeze.
  • Fix late contact and a wristy swing too.

FAQ

Are light racquets better for tennis elbow?
Not usually. Very light frames twist more on off-center hits and send more shock to the arm. A bit more weight is often more comfortable.
What strings are best for tennis elbow?
Soft multifilament or natural gut at a lower tension. Avoid stiff polyester, especially strung tight.
Does a vibration dampener help tennis elbow?
It changes the sound and feel slightly but does little for the shock that reaches your arm. Frame, strings and technique matter far more.
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