Selecting the recommended badminton racket that matches your skill level is vital. And that includes not only the right racquet head size but string tension too.
Some rackets come unstrung. And with continuous playing, even the strings of a pre-strung racket may break or grow loose.
Thus every player needs to know how to string a badminton racquet. You can do it in two ways. Either threading the racquet by hand or using a stringing machine.
It’s vital to learn both methods. That way, you can pick on the easiest way according to what the situation demands. Nevertheless, the process of stringing a racquet requires some considerations.
Table of Contents
Considerations Before Stringing a Racquet
Before the actual process, know the type of string, correct tension, and the string pattern you want to use. For that reason, take note of the following:
String Diameter
Concerning string diameter, there are two options you can choose; thick and thin cords. The thick lines have a long life. So they don’t call for frequent re-stringing.
But since they are thick, they generate a less appealing sound on hitting the shuttlecock. On the other hand, thin strings offer outstanding performance. For instance, they support far-reaching shots.
Also, on hitting the shuttle, thin cords produce a solid pleasant sound. However, their thin diameter awards them a short lifespan. That means you would have to re-string your racquet more often than when you use thick strings.
String Tension
You must know the maximum string tension that your frame supports. When you tighten the strings beyond that tension, the framework may bend, develop cracks, or break down. Some structures can withstand even up to the tightness of 30lbs.
Also, decide on the right racket string tension that blends with your skill level. For beginner players, a low string tension of 20 to 25lbs is ideal.
Such a range gives novice players the consistency in hitting the racquet and more power. However, advanced and professional players can use rackets with a tension of above 30lbs.
Preparing the Badminton Racket for Stringing
Having decided on the string tension and diameter you want, move on to preparing the racket.
Remove the Previous Strings
So, you can use a sharp knife to take out the frayed and broken strings. To make matters easier, begin by cutting the lines from the center as you spread outwards.
Inspect the Grommets
Having cleared the old strings, take a closer look at the grommets. Look out for worn-out or missing grommets. In case few require replacement, fix them before stringing.
Examine the Frame
Besides the grommets, you need to examine the frame too. Inspect the frame for signs of cracks or broken joints. Stringing exerts a lot of tension on the racket’s framework.
So don’t begin stringing when there are cracks or broken areas. Instead, fix the cracks or the broken badminton racket[how to fix broken badminton racket] first.
Steps to Stringing a Badminton Racket
The best way to string a badminton racket is to begin by threading the vertical cords.
Vertical Strings
First Step
Thread one end of the string through the bottom-most hole adjacent to the shaft. Then, straighten the cord to go through the matching hole on top of the racquet frame.
Second Step
After that, pass the cord on the two top holes. Then drop down the string to the bottom of the racquet, where you began the stringing.
However, ensure that the string passes through the hole on the opposite side of the shaft. By now, you should have each side of the cords hanging on either side of the shaft. Adjust the ropes to achieve equal distribution of the spring on the left and right hand side.
Third Step
Then pick on one side and begin stringing up and down the pattern as you move outwards. Let the initial string patter at the center be your guide for the rest to follow. Thread the cords to the point where the head frame begins to curve.
Fourth Step
There should be enough string hanging at the end for making a knot. If the length of the rope is short, adjust the strands to get the appropriate length.
When you have sufficient string length, make the first knot and a second one on top of the initial knot. The knot prevents the string from sliding back through the hole.
Fifth Step
Having made the knot, adjust the tension on the string strands. Begin with the outermost thread having the knot as you move towards the center strand.
Sixth Step
The next step is to string the remaining half of the racquet likewise. When you reach the end where the frame begins to curve, make a knot just like the previous case.
But before you make a tie, ensure the tightness of the string reflects the tension you need. If not, adjust the individual strands from one end to the next. Next, use pliers to keep the rope tight as you make the knot. For best performance, ensure the knot is a close as possible to the hole.
Horizontal Strings
Seventh Step
From the base, count to the fourth hole. Then thread the string through it and make a tight knot from the inside of the frame.
Eighth Step
After that pass the string to go into the frame through the seventh hole. When making the horizontal strands, the ropes should alternate from passing over and under the vertical strands.
So make the first horizontal strand by passing it over and under the vertical strings till you reach the exact opposite hole from the starting point. At the same time, ensure the line remains tight.
Ninth Step
If you started with an over-under weave pattern, then change to an under-over weave. Alternate the pattern as you begin a fresh horizontal row to the end. Continue stringing till you reach the area where the head starts to curve.
Tenth Step
After that, adjust each horizontal row so that you eliminate any slackness in the string. After passing it through the last hole, make a big knot so that the line doesn’t slip back. You can make several knots on top of each other to create a big lump.
Eleventh Step
Cut off the excess hanging string using a sharp knife. However, leave some allowance from the knot. If the cords are slack, pull each strand and improve the overall tension of the racquet.
Conclusion
The process of stringing a badminton racquet is straightforward. And the skill is helpful in badminton racket maintenance. Recreational and beginner players can thus benefit from the manual stringing of rackets.