One of the most common questions I get asked is “how often should I restring?” The answer depends on how much you play, but there’s a simple rule I share with everyone.
The Simple Rule
Restring your racket as many times per year as you play per week.
So if you play:
- Once a week → Restring once a year
- Twice a week → Restring every 6 months
- Three times a week → Restring every 4 months
- Daily → Consider monthly restrings
This is a guideline, not a strict rule. Some players are more sensitive to string changes than others, and different strings lose tension at different rates.
Why Fresh Strings Matter
Even if your strings haven’t broken, they lose performance over time:
- Tension drops - Strings lose tension from the moment they’re installed, affecting power and control
- Elasticity decreases - The “trampoline effect” diminishes, reducing power
- Surface wears - Notching and fraying reduces spin potential
- Feel changes - The crisp, responsive feel becomes dull and dead
Signs Your Strings Need Replacing
Beyond the time-based rule, watch for these indicators:
Visual Signs:
- Notching where strings cross
- Fraying or fuzzing on the string surface
- Visible wear marks
- Strings moving and not snapping back into place
Performance Signs:
- Loss of power - you’re swinging harder for the same results
- Reduced control - shots feel unpredictable
- Less spin - the ball isn’t gripping like it used to
- Arm discomfort - dead strings transmit more shock
Benefits of a Fresh Restring
When you bring your racket in for a fresh restring, you’ll notice:
- Restored power and pop
- Better control and consistency
- Improved spin generation
- More comfortable feel
- Confidence that your equipment is performing as it should
Don’t Wait for Strings to Break
Many club players only restring when their strings snap. By that point, you’ve been playing with compromised performance for weeks or even months. Regular restringing keeps your racket performing consistently.
My Recommendation
If you can’t remember when you last restrung your racket, it’s probably time. Bring it in and I’ll take a look - I can usually tell how much life is left in your strings and advise whether you need a fresh set.
Related Articles
- Understanding Tennis String Types - Choose the right strings for your next restring
- How String Tension Affects Your Game - Understand why tension matters
- Choosing the Right Strings for Your Playing Style - Match your setup to how you play