Low Compression Tennis Balls

Lets talk Low Compression Tennis Balls. I hear many comments from parents, who have not experienced low compression balls themselves, stating that they feel low compression balls are unnecessary, do not prepare the child for 'real tennis' and some who even think they are damaging. The reality is that low compression tennis balls are arguably THE best invention for the beginner tennis player and not just the beginner but anyone wanting to work on their tennis skills

The low compression tennis ball have less compression than the standard yellow tennis ball which means they are slower and bounce less. The low compression balls come in three colours with 3 different compression levels. The 75% lower compression being the slowest with the least bounce.

Red 75% lower compression 

Orange 50% lower compression

Green 25% lower compression.

The role of the low compression balls is to slow the ball down and to reduce the ball bounce. This is a valuable tool as the player has more time to adjust their grip, to be in the right position and enables the player to hit the ball at a lower height.

The slower ball and lower bounce means that the player can anticipate the ball, get into position and be able to move around the court more easily. This encourages mobility and encourages the player to run to the ball. It results in better court positioning by the player.

The low compression balls are better for teaching stroke fundamentals, the ball is at a better height to work on the racket speed resulting in faster racket head speed. As well as better stroke technique the slower balls encourage better grip positioning and better foot work. The balls are better for developing top spin and slice techniques.

With slower ball speed the player can work on the skills they need to develop. As the player improves the % of compression can be decreased working from beginners at 75% to 50% then 25 % before moving on to a standard tennis ball. 

The low compression balls do not become redundant, any player working on their technique will find it advantageous to use the lower speed balls initially to establish good technique.

So, parents relax those low compression balls will be a valuable tool in the tennis lesson. Your child will soon be able to establish a rally which will maintain their enthusiasm for the game, a game that can be very frustrating for beginners.