If you're a badminton player, your racket is the most significant tool. Not only do you invest money in your badminton racket, but you also spend considerable time finding the perfect one. Once you've found a racket that gives you the best performance, it's crucial to maintain it properly. Regular maintenance will keep your racket in top shape, ensuring you spend more time practising and lesser time in dealing with equipment issues.
Here are some essential tips for maintaining your badminton racket
Take Care of Strings
Strings are critical to your racket's performance. If the string tension isn't right or if the strings are broken, you won't be able to play at your best. Regularly check the condition of your racket strings. Experts recommend restringing your racket every two weeks if you use it frequently. However, this can vary depending on your playing style and intensity. Always ensure the string tension aligns with your badminton rackets and avoid fixing broken strings by reconnecting them, as this can disrupt the racket's balance and lead to further issues.
Don’t Exceed the Specified Tension
When stretching your racket strings, always adhere to the maximum allowed tension specified by the manufacturer. Exceeding this can cause distortion, warping, or even break the racket.
Check the Grommets
Grommets are the small black cylinders around the racket frame through which the string passes. They act as a cushion between the string and the frame. When grommets break, they need to be replaced to prevent potential damage to both the string and frame. Grommets can break in two areas: the head and the body. Broken grommets should be replaced promptly to extend the life of your strings and frame. Ask your stringer to check and replace any damaged grommets during restringing.
Inspect the Racket Frame
The frame of your badminton racket is where most damage occurs. Paint chips are common and, while they don't affect performance, they can be unsightly. More serious are cracks in the frame, which can significantly shorten the racket's lifespan. Cracks often occur where there are paint chips and appear as thin black lines. If you find a crack, you may only be able to string the racket a few more times, and at a lower tension, before it breaks.
Replace Grip Tape Regularly
Your hands sweat during matches, and over time, this moisture can penetrate through the grip tape, causing it to smell, lose its effectiveness. Replace the grip tape every 1 to 2 months, depending on your level of play. When not playing, keep the racket out of your hands and store it in a dry place.
Properly Store Your Racket
How you store your racket significantly affects its lifespan. Avoid leaving your racket in a casual backpack with other equipment. Instead, store it in a case within a bag, preferably in a cool, dry place. If you live in hot locations like Chennai or Rajasthan, use a thermal-lined bag to protect your racket and strings from heat damage.
Focus While Playing
Pay attention to your shots during matches to avoid hitting the shuttlecock against the frame, which can cause damage. If you're a beginner, consider using a racket with a large sweet spot, which will help you hit the shuttle more accurately.
Maintaining your badminton racket involves regularly checking the strings, adhering to the specified tension, inspecting grommets and the frame, replacing grip tape, storing the racket carefully which helps you to focus on your game. By taking these steps, you can ensure your racket remains in top condition, allowing you to focus on improving your game. Remember, taking care of your racket means taking care of your badminton performance.