Players looking for a racquet in the Control category should consider the Babolat Pure Storm – racquet choice of U.S. Open Champion Sam Stosur.  Babolat maintained the G^T technology, which mixes graphite and tungsten.  The combination of tungsten and graphite provides control and power in one racquet.

The Pure Storm also leverages the Woofer technology.  According to Babolat, this is “the first and most efficient system which makes the frame and strings interact when striking the ball:  25% longer ball/string contact, better control, more comfort.”

The racquet weighs 10.4 oz unstrung.  It features a 98 sq. inch head size and is 6 pts HL.  The stiffness rating is 69, but it plays softer and more flexible to us.

When we tested the racquet, we found enough control that we could hit out from the baseline thanks to the flex of the frame.   The Pure Storm is light and maneuverable which makes it spin friendly.  At net, we found the racquet to play very solid and offer good depth on our shots.

As always, we strongly recommend serving with any demo racquet, and we found this frame to offer excellent placement and solid racquet head speed through the serve.  The lightness of the frame allowed for better maneuverability and kick on the serve.

The Pure Storm Team, another racquet that we carry, is lighter at 10.1 oz with a slightly larger head size at 100 sq.  inches.  The stiffness is the same as is the 6pt HL.  The Pure Storm Team also has the G^T and Woofer technology.  This racquet is a great alternative for those players looking for a lighter weight frame.

Happy Hitting,

Marla & Sheila

The Blade Team is the updated version of the KBlade.  The racquet is 27.5 inches for a little extra reach and 8 points Head Light.  Generally not a big fan of the midplus racquets, I found the 104 sq. in. BLX Blade Team light – just under 11 ounces – but very good for all strokes.

The BLX Blade Team uses the Karaphite Black material for increased stability and control and BLX technology incorporating basalt making the racquet lighter and reducing frame vibration for increased feel.  Power and control in one racquet – that is very good.  This racquet has a stiffness rating of 53 which means it’s flexible (while the Blade 98 is 64). Oh, and the colors are slimming in black, gold and white and happened to match our outfits that day.

The BLX Blade Team also leverages Power Hole grommets designed to allow string movement of the cross strings in the center of the stringbed. This increased string movement effectively widens the sweetspot allowing for more power while providing greater forgiveness on off center hits.

This racquet was easy to adapt to from all parts of the court.  Intermediate to advanced players looking for a solid all around tennis racquet with control and power should come in and demo the BLX Blade Team.

Next, we’ll look at the Babolat Pure Storm tennis racquet.

Happy Hitting,

Marla

My clinic this morning focused on Mental Toughness.  Tennis consists of four key areas: tactical, technical, physical and mental.  The mental part of tennis is often the deciding factor that will determine the outcome of a match.  However, the mental component of tennis is often overlooked and not regularly practiced.

I had an opportunity to hear Dr. Jim Loehr speak two times while I was coaching college tennis.  I have been an avid fan ever since.   I’ve used these tips for college teams I’ve worked with and clinics that I’ve run.  What I like about Dr. Loehr’s advice is that it’s based on simple principles that with practice can easily be incorporated into one’s game.  I am happy to share his advice with you all.

My recommendation is to focus on one or two tips during practice/playing situations, and stick with them and even emphasize them more when you’re in a close competitive situation.

“Dr. Jim Loehr’s 12 Tips for Mental Toughness”

1-      EYE CONTROL:  Focus your eyes on either your racquet or the ground to keep your attention focused between points.

2-      RITUALS: Establish rituals between and before points to appropriately balance relaxation, focus, and intensity prior to starting each point.

3-      WINNING PACE: Pace yourself between points especially when angry, nervous, or fatigued to allow you to gain control of pulse rate and to remain focused.

4-      BREATHING: Practice deep breathing habits between points to relax and lower pulse rate. Breathe out at contact when hitting the ball to get better control, relaxation and feel.

5-      HIGH POSITIVE INTENSITY: Even when very fatigued or when you feel negative, project the image of having a high level of Positive Intensity.

6-      CALMNESS AND RELAXATION: When nervous and tense, try to project yourself as being relaxed and calm.

7-      MISTAKE MANAGEMENT: When you make a mistake, learn to just turn and walk away from it. Don’t lose your composure.

8-      CONFIDENT FIGHTER IMAGE: No matter how bad it gets, project the image that you are confident and will fight to the end.

9-      NEGATIVE SELF-TALK: Avoid expressing negative self-talk during play. It only fosters bad results and pumps up your opponent.

10-   POSITIVE ATTITUDE: Think positively about your situation in the face of adversity. Become challenged.

11-   “LOVE THE BATTLE”: Don’t appear scared or threatened when things get tough; project a challenged and winning appearance at all times.

12-   RACQUET UP: Carry your racquet in the opposite hand and keep it up, not dragging it low, as a symbol that when my racquet is up, I am up.

I believe these tips will improve your game so practice them and try them during your next match.

Next, Sheila and I review the BLX Blade Team racquet.  Check back soon.

Happy hitting … Marla

Marla