I'm an average tennis player, age 45, who switched to badminton 7 months ago. My strength and style are still much more in my arm than my wrist, though I am trying to improve the latter. My arm strength/speed are average. My court speed is above average (I used to be a sprinter). I'm 6 foot, 2 inches and have a good reach, especially on overhead shots. I play 2-3 times a week, usually doubles, using a nylon birdie. I consider myself an intermediate player who will never be an advanced player due to lack of time/skill. Nevertheless, I do want to constantly improve my game. My game is mostly defensive now, though I would like to be evenly balanced between offense and defense. I want to be able to dig out smashes, do drop shots, do smashes, and hit deep shots (base line to base line). Probably my greatest concern at this point is hitting deep shots. I need advice on the best type of racket/strings/string tension I should use. I tried a Yonex MP23 but couldn't hit deep shots. Someone advised me to get it restrung to 20 lbs. (I have no idea what it was at.) I'm also intrigued by the MP88. Many charts put CAB 20 right in the middle of offense/defense, singles/doubles. Is this the best all around racket? Also, since many rackets come in different weights, please advise what weight I should choose. Would a heavier version of a racket make it more durable? Thanks, August
mp88 and armortec500. get the AT500, it's cheaper. try 4u and 3u and see if one suit u better. use bg65/65ti, u dont need thin string right now.
What u have been describing seems to be the perfect style for Nanospeed 7k or even nanospeed 8k.. Nanospeed is extremely light so it will be easy to dig out those smashes when they come, while nanospeed is also one of the most offensive racquets now on the yonex chart... As for strings i believe BG80 or BG 65 is good as long as it is at a tension u like... these strings are not too expensive and fairly common so it should be no problem
Suitable rackets Hi, How about Armortec 800 DEF or Nanospeed 8000? Both are good for defensive as well as offensive moves.U may choose 3U if u like lighter rackets. As for stringing, BG 65 is more durable as it is thicker. But if u want the "feel", then u may opt for BG66 which is thinner but if u are a smasher, then this would not last u more than maybe 3 months.Try out yr friends' rackets first u have the opportunity. Compare n then choose will be best. Adios Lee