Before I started playing badminton, I thought every racket must be the same. But when I saw the professional and advanced players using training rackets while training, at that moment, I got to know that not every racket is the same and each racket has its speciality. Also, rackets are designed according to the player’s game style and level.
Many training rackets are available in the market, but Yonex creates the best ones, and the isometric TRO training racket is one of them. These training rackets come in different weights and grip sizes to suit your strength.
Also, these rackets are not meant for competitive play as it does not provide the same level of power or control as a professional-grade racket. Instead, it is intended to be used as a practice and skill development tool.
Players generally use training rackets for practice, and rather than this, there are many merits and demerits of playing with these rackets, which we will discuss below:
What is a training racket?
A badminton training racket is a regular racket specifically designed to help all level players improve their skills and techniques. These rackets are usually heavier and come in at about 140-160 grams versus the 70-90 grams of regular rackets.
These rackets hold a larger sweet spot than regular rackets, making it easier for players to hit the shuttlecock and improve their accuracy.
Training rackets are also typically designed with a more flexible shaft, providing more power and control to players still developing their swing technique. Some training rackets may also have a shorter handle, which helps players to develop their grip and wrist strength.
Rather than this, training rackets also have pre-strung strings at lower tensions and cannot handle restringing at higher tensions. But this isn’t much of a problem because you shouldn’t be playing full games with a training racket.
To learn more about a training racket, click on the video below:
Use of a training racket
A player can use a badminton training racket to perform these activities:
-
Practice sessions
Using a training racket during practice sessions can help players focus on specific aspects of their game, such as footwork or stroke mechanics.
-
Warm-up exercises
Many players use a heavier training racket while warming up. It helps them to prepare their muscles for the intensity of play.
-
Strength training
Players can use a training racket as part of their strength training routine to build muscle strength and endurance in their arms, wrists, and shoulders.
-
Rehabilitation
Injured players can use a training racket as part of their rehabilitation program to help rebuild strength and flexibility in their injured limb.
-
Fitness classes
Some fitness classes, such as badminton, may incorporate training rackets to help participants improve their technique and fitness level.
-
Wall drills
While performing a wall drill, players usually use a heavy training racket to hit the shuttle against the wall. It allows their forearms to build up endurance for playing and swinging.
Rather than this, if you can stay consistent with your drives using a heavier racket, it will be much easier to use a normal racket to hit even faster-paced drives. The next time you plan on playing badminton by yourself (against a wall), try using a heavy racket instead and see how much harder the drill gets.
To learn more, click on the video below:
Benefits of using a training racket
Here are some benefits of using a badminton training racket:
-
Improves technique
Training rackets are designed to be heavier than regular rackets, which can help players develop better technique and stroke mechanics.
-
Building strength
The extra weight of a training racket can help players build muscle strength and endurance in their arms, wrists, and shoulders.
-
Increase accuracy
The added weight of a training racket can help players better control their shots and improve their accuracy.
-
Enhancing footwork
Training rackets can be used to practice footwork drills, which can help players improve their agility and speed on the court.
Difficulties a player face while using a training racket
Playing with a training racket helps you to increase your strength and skills. But on the other hand, it does have significant consequences if you fail to use it correctly.
Some of the consequences of using a training racket are given below:
-
Increased risk of injury
The added weight of a training racket can put extra strain on a player’s muscles and joints, increasing the risk of injury, particularly if used incorrectly or excessively.
-
Changes in technique
Because a training racket can feel significantly different from a regular racket, some players may develop poor habits or alter their technique to compensate for the extra weight.
-
Reduced mobility
The added weight of a training racket can make it more difficult for players to move quickly and freely around the court, which could affect their overall game performance.
-
Cost
Training rackets can be more expensive than regular rackets, which may be a barrier for some players, particularly beginners or those on a tight budget.
-
Limited usefulness
While a training racket can be a useful tool for improving technique and strength, it may not be necessary or useful for all players, particularly those with strong skills and experience in the game.
Final Words
There isn’t much difference between a training racket and a regular one. You cannot tell the difference until you pick it up. Training rackets are usually heavier, slightly head heavy, have a stiffer shaft and hold a larger sweet spot.
Rather than this, if you want to enhance and boost your strength, control, and endurance, you should get a training racket. But remember, these rackets are only meant for training and practising. So don’t overuse it; you may hurt your wrist or forearm due to the racket’s heavy weight.
And in case you face any problems or have any questions going on in your mind, feel free to ask us or pin them up in the comment section below.