- Joan Hahn
- September 17, 2021
- Last Updated on
If you happen to lose string tension amidst a critical game, then the W may shift away from your favor. This is where the importance of pre-stretching your tennis strings enters. A good pre-stretch before you string your tennis racket may prevent the loss of integrity of your threads along the way.
Get ready to learn more about this vital process!
What is Tennis String Pre-Stretching?
Pre-stretching is the practice of extending your tennis strings before you start stringing them on your racket. This process changes the thread properties through initial tension loss.
Instead of going off the bat and applying pull tension by stringing using a stringing machine, preemptive extension captures the elastic feature of the tennis strings resulting in less tension loss over time. Extending it will also aid in giving your string bed considerably better durability against premature breakage.
Tension maintenance, in the long run, is enhanced in pre-stretched strings.
2 Pre-Stretching Methods
The stringing process should not commence without preemptive preparations. There are two basic methods to conduct this:
Manual pre-stretch
This extension method is conducted without mechanical intervention, as the name suggests. The person may remove the coil memory and elasticity of the string using two commonly used methods:
Wrapping the string around a fixed round object
The person takes both ends of the thread and wraps it on a round object. Be wary of protrusions that might kink or cut the string of your racket. Extend slowly and feel the string expand. This process marks the initial tension loss.
Two-person method
Two people are responsible for creating tension and reducing coil memory by extending the thread from end to end. If you lack the facilities for the first strategy, visit a friend and opt for the two-person method. Who knows, this visit may even turn into a friendly match afterward!
Machine Pull
This tension-inducing process uses a proprietary stringing machine to facilitate. Stringers set the pressure or weight and allow the machine to do its magic to the thread. Tension maintenance is also better since it is controlled. Using the manual method to apply thread pressure is better in reducing coil memory and more comfortable working with.
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FAQS
It’s not advisable to pre-stretch a polyester string. Doing this may cause them to break easily due to low elasticity, and you can lose a significant lifespan for its usage.
Most prefer multifilament threads and natural gut for preemptive pulling. This can improve its equipment consistency and maintain a better lifespan for more extended playtime.
Some players like Roger Federer prefer to stretch their strings first before playing. One benefit of doing so is that it will reduce ball impact on the strings. Consistent string tension will also improve their play and ball control compared otherwise.
Interestingly, Federer once had his cross polyester strings pulled as well. Aside from the natural gut mains of his hybrid string racket, process experts are yet to learn and understand why.
Yes, you should pre-stretch your racket strings before stringing. Since extending the strings removes its elastic nature, you can reduce the loss of tension incurred over time. The impact of string tension during a match can pose problems if you skip this procedure.
If you’re following a hybrid string for your racket like Federer, extend your natural gut mains. You may skip on the poly crosses before mounting them on the stringing machine.
Conclusion
Pre stretching is a necessary process, especially if you play competitively. Failing to consider this process before stringing may only hurt your racket, and ultimately, the outcome of your game.
In tennis, you are only as good to the level that your equipment can keep up with you. [1] By following this method, you ensure that your racket and its threads can go the distance as your games intensify.
References:
- https://filmdaily.co/sports/tennis-grips/
