String tensions

[Shahzad]

This question has probably been asked many times before but I want to cleat this aspect up because I am getting different answers from different people.

The question is whether higher string tensions result in increased power and decreased control or vice versa. I assume that when power v control figures are puit on a graph that it will be a gradually increasing curve which starts decreasing after its maximum point (standard deviation curve). I know that this point is different on different rackets but I would like more of a general answer to this question to settle this point for once and for all.

Thanks for all replies

Shahzad

:-)

[shaun]

I have an answer, but this is from my own experiences and this only applies to my playing style(hard hitter). Keep in mind that i use plastic shuttles:
I find that high tensions=wayyyyyy higher increase in power because the strings dont absorb the power when the shuttle hits it!
low tensions=wayyyyy better control....i dont have an explanation for this, but i really do find great control in low tensions(under 20).
Some ppl say that a low tension=more power because of "trampolene effect" NO WAY THATS IMPOSSIBLE. It takes more than a millisecond for the stupid strings to bounce back when u hit the shuttle, and the shuttle will leave the racquet face really quickly, so there is no way for the strings to rebound and give the shuttles extra velocity-UNLESS U DONT HIT HARD. If you dont hit hard, then u can take advantage of this effect because u dont make the strings bend in as much when u contact the birdie.

[Ricky]

I've similar experience as well, since though some people said that lower tension means more power. In my situations, I've racquets strung with different string tension (from 24 lbs to 28 lbs) - while I can smash very hard with high tension like 28 lbs, my clear and other shots may become worse (or at least I need to hit harder to get the same level of control), so I will switch racquets depending on my preferred play style on that day (e.g. if my forearm is tied, I'll definitely use racquet with lower string tension).

[May]

what's power v control?????

[Matt]

For string tentions, power is inversely related with control. So if you want higher tentions for more power, you will lose a bit of contol while you want more control the power will go down a bit.

[Dhitto]

Actually, I don't quite buy all this really.

From my experience, playing over the years and experimenting with lots of stuff. Well, higher tension does provide for greater smashing power. However, it also resuces the 'sweet spot' area as your tension goes up. Which explains why clears and drives don't seem so good anymore. Coz its rare for most except the very best of players to be able to hit the 'sweet spot' everytime, for every stroke. So when you miss it, if you notice, the shuttle feels like a dud, the racket feels 'flat', ?? My observations only really.

The beauty of high tension stringing which many professional players love is that it allows for great power as well as great accuracy of shot placement when you drop, smash or lob as the strings do not 'shift' when you slice the shuttle, thus ensuring truer placement.

However, the problem is, it also reduces the 'touch', 'feel' of the shuttle when you need to play very delicate shots. Like tight net shots as the racket face acts like a highly strung trampoline rather than a mattress. The shuttle just pounces right off, making delicate touches difficult. But it can be compensated with practice and judgement.

Hence, higher tension does mean higher power, but you lose that often important factor of 'forgivingness' when you mishit. But it does not mean less 'control' as accuracy should be considered control too. So far, using my Cab 25, optimum tension seems between 22-24 Lbs using BG-85. And it works just as well on my ISP 900 too.

Just my 2 cents worth. Hope its been of help.