Small Frame, Big Impact

How Racket Size Shapes Young Players’ Serve Biomechanics

In youth tennis development, one of the most overlooked yet essential factors is the size of the racket. Beyond aesthetics or marketing trends, racket dimensions directly influence biomechanics, muscle load, and long-term injury risk. At DAHCOR, we believe performance should always be supported by science, especially when it comes to young athletes. That’s why our approach to racket customization starts at the foundation: the frame size that fits the player, not the trend.

The Science Behind the Serve

A recent biomechanical study analyzed how 23”, 25”, and 27” rackets affect the serve performance and joint loading in competitive junior players between 8 and 11 years old. The players were evaluated using a 3D motion capture system to measure angular velocities, torques, and overall kinetic chain efficiency during the serve.

Key Findings:

• Joint Stress Reduction: The 23” racket significantly reduced shoulder internal rotation torque (-22%) and elbow varus torque (-31%) compared to the standard 27” frame. Lower torque means lower injury risk for developing joints.
• No Loss in Performance: Contrary to expectations, ball speed and serve percentage remained stable across all three racket sizes. Lighter rackets didn’t sacrifice power.
• Improved Movement Efficiency: Players using the 23” racket displayed increased angular velocity in the wrist and forearm, indicating more natural, fluid motion.

This proves what we’ve long implemented at DAHCOR: equipment that fits the player enhances—not restricts—performance.

Rethinking the Upgrade Timeline

Parents and coaches often rush young athletes into full-sized rackets as a sign of progression. But this study reinforces that physical readiness must guide that transition, not age or prestige. While the standard 27” frame may increase lower limb engagement (a potential tool for training), consistent use could place unnecessary strain on vulnerable joints.

At DAHCOR, we advocate for a hybrid approach:

• Use scaled rackets (like 23” and 25”) during most training and competition to optimize mechanics.
• Introduce 27” rackets gradually in supervised sessions to build lower-body coordination.

Customization from the Start

DAHCOR’s Custom Made platform offers precision-fit junior rackets tailored by height, strength, and dominant play style. We believe youth athletes deserve the same biomechanical respect as professionals.

Each junior frame can be:

• Calibrated by swing speed and range of motion
• Paired with grip sizes that reduce wrist and elbow fatigue
• Weighted to promote proper kinetic chain sequencing

Custom doesn’t mean complex—it means correct.

Build the Base, Then Add Power

Injury prevention and performance aren’t separate goals—they’re interlinked. The right racket size fosters better biomechanics, teaches efficient movement, and protects young athletes from chronic stress.

At DAHCOR, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. We believe in one-size-fits-YOU.

As more scientific data confirms the importance of scaled equipment, we remain committed to delivering rackets built not just to perform, but to develop. Because peak performance starts with healthy fundamentals.