When people talk of the fundamentals of tennis, they hardly mention anything about equipment. It seems like it would be much better to acknowledge how significant a role it plays in developing your overall game.
Racket – your racket should be whatever you feel comfortable hitting with. It is always advisable to demo a stick first before buying it.
Oversize rackets, heavier rackets and stiffer rackets provide more power
Smaller head sizes and more flexible frames provide more control
Strings – use any kind of string that you feel comfortable with
Natural gut is more elastic and retains tension better. It provides the most power and control but is expensive, high maintenance and not so durable.
Synthetic gut is less expensive and requires less maintenance.
Polyester is stiffer and more durable than synthetic gut but provides less feel. These are commonly used by heavy topspin players.
Kevlar and titanium these are very stiff but durable strings.
Textured strings provide more bite on the ball for extra dwell time, control and spin.
Shoes - use any tennis shoe you feel comfortable with. Cross trainers can also be used but running shoes are not recommended because these do not provide the stability and balance for lateral movements.
