A review of tennis racket performance parameters

ALLEN, Tom, CHOPPIN, Simon and KNUDSON, Diane (2015). A review of tennis racket performance parameters. Sports Engineering, 19 (1), 1-11.

Preview

PDF review_of_tennis_racket_performance_parameters_-_Manuscript-23-10-14.pdf - Accepted Version All rights reserved. Download (482kB) | Preview

Abstract

The application of advanced engineering to tennis racket design has influenced the nature of the sport. As a result, the International Tennis Federation has established rules to limit performance, with the aim of protecting the nature of the game. This paper illustrates how changes to the racket affect the player-racket system. The review integrates engineering and biomechanical issues related to tennis racket performance, covering the biomechanical characteristics of tennis strokes, tennis racket performance, the effect of racket parameters on ball rebound and biomechanical interactions. Racket properties influence the rebound of the ball. Ball rebound speed increases with frame stiffness and as string tension decreases. Reducing inter-string contacting forces increases rebound topspin. Historical trends and predictive modelling indicate swingweights of around 0.030–0.035 kg/m2 are best for high ball speed and accuracy. To fully understand the effect of their design changes, engineers should use impact conditions in their experiments, or models, which reflect those of actual tennis strokes. Sports engineers, therefore, benefit from working closely with biomechanists to ensure realistic impact conditions.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	A correction to this article was published on the 12 November 2020. It can be viewed at the following URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12283-020-00334-x Cover Date: 2016-03
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018:	Centre for Sports Engineering Research
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1007/s12283-014-0167-x
Page Range:	1-11
Depositing User:	Carole Harris
Date Deposited:	15 Jun 2015 08:59
Last Modified:	17 Mar 2021 19:15
URI:	https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/10215

Actions (login required)

View Item

Downloads

Publication Metrics