Racket string and tension? | Badminton Equipment - Rackets | Discussion Forum

Ewan
 
Let's keep string tension in perspective because it's so easy to get carried away with figures.
 
First off, pro's have a lot higher tension. They can do this because they do not need a large sweet spot on the string bed from which to hit. They are playing in near perfect conditions for most of the time. They are also sponsored, so if they break a frame they get a replacement FOC and quickly too.
 
For us mere mortals these high tensions will not help us improve. For most there could be a loss of power, an increase in mis-hits and possible injury to elbows or shoulders.
 
Whilst a racquet can be strung beyond the manufacturers recommended tension, it's important to remember that this will invalidate your warranty. So, be warned as the manufacturer will not replace FOC due to exceeding the recommended tension, no matter what professional players have in their racquets.
 
Bear in mind that playing with plastic shuttles generally requires a slacker tension to allow the strings to do more work in repelling the shuttle. That's not required with a feather because we stroke a feather and thump a plastic shuttle.
 
I agree with Peter. Leave a stringing machine alone for a while and enjoy playing and learning the game. Once you are more experienced then perhaps do as Simon did and make enquiries about stringing machines. You could check out UKRSA (UK Racquet Stringers Association). They run courses however, whilst they are good, there is limited expertise in badminton stringing and the badminton market. However, you will learn to string properly and that could save a lot of heartache. Also, they have a range of second hand machines.
 
There is a difference between Central Sports and Direct Sports. you may not see it from a website, but behind the business there is a world of difference and I know which business I'd prefer to put my money. I don't get paid for saying that, I just know it to be true.
 
Paul

Simon
 
It just goes to show that many experienced players, no matter what their standard, can still learn something in this great game. Well done for trying.
 
Paul