As any badminton player knows, the way your racquet is constructed can have a big impact on your game. One of the key components of the racquet is the shaft, and the stiffness of the shaft can have a big impact on your performance. In this article, we’ll take a look at what an extra stiff shaft will do in badminton and how it can benefit your game.
What is an Extra Stiff Shaft?
The stiffness of a shaft is determined by its flex rating. The flex rating is a measure of how much the shaft bends when a force is applied to it. Racquets with a higher flex rating are more flexible, while racquets with a lower flex rating are stiffer. An extra stiff shaft has a flex rating of 60 or less.
Benefits of an Extra Stiff Shaft
When it comes to the benefits of an extra stiff shaft, there are a few areas that stand out.
Increased Power
One of the main benefits of an extra stiff shaft is that it can generate more power. Due to the stiffness of the shaft, it stores more energy when it is bent, allowing you to hit harder shots. This is especially useful for players who want to generate more power without sacrificing accuracy.
Better Control
Another benefit of an extra stiff shaft is that it can help you gain better control over your shots. This is because the stiffer shaft ensures that the racquet head remains in the same position throughout the entire stroke. This allows you to hit shots with greater precision and accuracy, making it easier to land shots in the desired area.
Increased Durability
Finally, an extra stiff shaft is also more durable. This is because the stiffness of the shaft means it’s less likely to warp or break when put under pressure. This makes it the ideal choice for players who want a racquet that can withstand the rigours of regular play.
Drawbacks of an Extra Stiff Shaft
Despite the benefits of an extra stiff shaft, there are also a few drawbacks to consider.
Decreased Comfort
One of the main drawbacks of an extra stiff shaft is that it can be less comfortable to use. This is because the stiffness of the shaft can cause more vibrations to be transferred to your arm, which can be uncomfortable during long rallies.
Decreased Feel
Another drawback of an extra stiff shaft is that it can decrease the feel of your shots. This is because the stiffness of the shaft can make it harder to tell how much power you’re generating, making it harder to adjust your shots as needed.
Conclusion
An extra stiff shaft can be a great choice for players who want to generate more power and gain better control over their shots. However, it can also be less comfortable to use and decrease the feel of your shots. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if an extra stiff shaft is the right choice for your game.