Tennis Equipment for Children
Tennis is known as the "sport of a lifetime" because it can be played by people of any age. Introducing a child to tennis gives him a great way to stay active and helps prevent today's common problems of childhood obesity and diabetes. To encourage participation by younger players, most of the major tennis equipment manufacturers have introduced top-of-the-line products designed for children.
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Tennis Balls
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For young children or beginners, low compression tennis balls may be a better choice than the standard high-pressure balls. They do not travel as fast and will not bounce as high, making it easier for a child to line up the ball at the proper height for his stroke. Multicolored balls are also helpful for children because they make the spin more visible than with a standard solid yellow ball.
Youth Racquets
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Quality tennis racquets are now available in various sizes so junior players of all ages can have a racquet that is easy to control. Children under 6 years of age, or older children who are smaller than average, should use a racquet that is 21 inches long. Children between 6 and 8 years old can generally handle a racquet that is between 23 and 25 inches long. The next size up is usually 26 or 27 inches long. Depending on the child's height, age 12 is usually when he or she will be ready to make the transition from a youth racquet to a standard 29-inch adult racquet.
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Accessories
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Accessories like an overgrip or shock absorber can make a racquet more comfortable for the child to use. Some tennis racquets, especially today's stiff composite models, create an unpleasant vibration and "ping" sound when striking the ball. A colorful overgrip also gives the child a way to personalize his or her racquet, along with absorbing sweat or making the grip larger to accommodate growing hands.
Shoes
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Tennis shoes have more lateral stability than other types of athletic footwear to support the player's foot and ankle during the side-to-side running involved in the sport. Comfort and fit is more important when choosing a children's tennis shoe than durability because the child will usually outgrow the shoe long before he or she can wear out the sole.
Clothing
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Tennis apparel similar to that worn by the professionals is available in children's sizes. For boys, this is usually a pair of shorts and a collared shirt. Girls have more options, with shorts, skirts and even complete tennis dresses to choose from. Hats, visors and sunglasses can help keep the sun out of the child's eyes while on the tennis court.
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