Determining the Proper Grip Size

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Another component, in selecting a racquet, is to determine your correct grip size. This is a serious component of racquet selection, especially in terms of the stiffer lighter frames that are available today, which can be overlooked by many players. Grip size is the circumference of the racquet handle and grip, usually measured about 2 – 3 inches above the butt cap. Grips are usually available in 1/8 inch increments from 4 inches to 4 3/4 inches, depending upon model. Grip sizes are listed in one of the two formats in the table below. Some manufacturers list both formats. Grip sizes are usually displayed on either the inside or outside of the racquet shaft and some manufactures indicate the European format on the butt cap.

Many players have a tendency to select a smaller grip because it gives them a more secure feeling. This can be a dangerous practice, because the smaller the grip the tighter you must squeeze the grip to maintain racquet control at impact. The tighter you squeeze the handle, the more force is applied to the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow which can lead to fatigue and eventually develop into tendonitis. A general rule of thumb is you should use as large a grip as you can comfortably use. Larger grips have more surface area than smaller grips allowing you to grip the handle more comfortably and looser. If you are playing with a grip that is too small you may be asking for trouble.

When evaluating your grip size, take into consideration, the handle shape, the type of grip on the racquet, and whether you will be using an over-grip. Over-grip adds about a 1/2 to one grip size or 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch. It is much easier to build-up a grip up than reduce the circumference. As a matter of fact most of the newer racquets have handles cannot be reduced. Another factor to consider is the type of forehand grip you are using. Eastern or Continental grips have less distance to travel when changing from a forehand to backhand grip and therefore a slightly larger grip size can be chosen. If you are using a Semi-Western to Western, then selecting a smaller grip may be beneficial since the distance required to change from your forehand grip to your backhand covers a greater distance and with the smaller circumference it is easier and quicker.

There are several methods for determining “proper” grip sizing:
One of the classic method's suggests that there should be an “index-finger” width between the fatty portion at the base of your thumb and your third finger when holding the racquet handle with an Eastern or Continental grip. If there is not sufficient room for your non-hitting index finger to fit between your third finger and base of thumb then the grip is too small. A grip that is too small requires more strength to keep the racquet from twisting in your hand on off-center hits. Playing with too small a grip is a contributing factor to tennis elbow. A grip that is too large, noticeably more than a index finger's width, inhibits wrist snap on serves and overheads, makes changing grips more difficult and requires more strength. Prolonged use of a too large grip, also contributes to tennis elbow.

An alternative method, developed by Robert Nirschi MD, is to measure the distance from the second lateral palm line of the hand to the end of your ring finger of your playing hand. This measurement is the actual grip size he recommends. (Please note: the illustration is not drawn to scale; it is presented for illustrative purposes.)

Keep in mind, that it's easier to increase handle size.
Use as large a grip as you can comfortably hold during match play.

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