Tension is the force each string is pulled to when the racquet is strung. It's one of the settings that changes how a racquet feels the most, often more than the racquet itself.
Where to start
Look at the tension range printed on your racquet, usually inside the throat or on the frame, for example “23 to 27 kg” or “50 to 60 lbs”. Start in the middle of the range and change one kilo at a time, depending on how it feels. Most tennis string beds sit between 20 and 27 kg.
Lower or higher tension?
| Lower tension | Higher tension |
|---|---|
| More power, the ball comes off easier | More control, a crisper hit |
| Easier on the arm and elbow | A harder feel, less comfort |
| A bigger sweet spot | A smaller sweet spot |
If your shots often fly long, try a kilo more. If you feel you have to push the ball, or your arm hurts, try a kilo less.
The string changes the tension
- Monofilaments (polyester) are stiffer and are usually strung one to two kilos lower than multifilaments.
- Multifilaments and natural gut are softer and take a little more tension.
- Hybrid setups use two different strings on the mains and crosses, often at slightly different tensions.
More on string types in our guide on which string to choose.
Elbow hurting?
Lower the tension and choose a softer string, a multifilament or natural gut, instead of a monofilament. A tired string bed is also hard on the arm, so see how often to restring.
Kilos and pounds
Many racquets give the tension in pounds (lbs). One kilo is about 2.2 lbs, so 55 lbs is about 25 kg and 50 lbs about 22.7 kg.
Always string in the same place
The same tension on a different machine, or strung a different way, can feel slightly different. Once you find the tension that suits you, stick with one machine and one stringer for the same result every time. Keep a note of your string and tension and tell us at your next stringing.