Today is Cyber Monday.  Please visit our website and follow the Cyber Monday link in the left menu column for some wild savings.  Hope you enjoy!

www.ggtennis.com

What you see pictured above is a stringing method that has the potential to shake, rattle and roll modern-day stringing conventions while shattering the accepted two-piece paradigm.  At Guts and Glory Tennis, we are “going rogue” in 2010!

We call this process the “Pillow-Top Tri -Brid.” ™ We are currently concluding playtests.  The early feedback is overwhelmingly positive and we are confident we will have all the data and revisions needed to make this EXCLUSIVE method available to our customers in 2010.

What you see is the evolution of a concept that was birthed September 7, 2005.  On that day I had a long discussion with the parents of a highly ranked junior player.  He preferred the feel and performance of multifilament strings.  However, with his western grip and aggressive style of play the durability was unacceptable.  He did not like the feel of full poly-based strings, but could adapt to a poly-based/multi hybrid.  Problem was the poly-based strings were chewing through the multis rapidly.  The parents asked if there was ANYTHING possible we could do to add some durability while simultaneously offering the desired playability  so they would not have to restring as often.

We went to the drawing board.  With the hybrid, it was the center crosses that were breaking from friction.  We wondered if there might be a method where the center strings (mains and crosses) could all consist of the durable poly-based strings and be surrounded by multis for added feel.  The resulting conclusion was an experimental three piece “tri-brid” we created especially for this player.  His name was Harrison and we called it the “Harrison Hybrid.”

Soon word of the “Harrison Hybrid” had spread through the junior ranks and we were performing this method for several junior players.  The execution was admittedly awkward due to the fact we had not been able to find a pattern that worked on a majority of frames.  In the coming months Harrison’s parents would purchase a stringing machine, begin stringing themselves and go back to a traditional poly-based/synthetic hybrid.  The other juniors using the method slowly switched racquets to those which could not be strung with this method and thus the “Harrison Hybrid” became a seldom used method in our shop.

This October at the Grand Slam Stringers Symposium in Orlando, I met a great guy and brilliant stringer named Roger.  We were bantering about stringing stuff and I mentioned using a tri-brid to him.  To my shock and amazement, he not only knew exactly what I was talking about, but his racquet was currently strung as a tri-brid.  In discussing his stringing method and pattern, I noted some key differences from what I had been using.  Most notably, he was using the poly-based strings in a larger proportion than I originally used.  By increasing the percentage of poly-based string surface it was possible to be successfully installed on almost all frames that used traditional grommet systems.  (Sorry, Prince port-frame owners!)  Roger had re-ignited my interest in exploring this method in greater detail.  When I returned from the conference, I immediately began experimenting with it.  If playability was proven to perform as projected I knew the next step would be to find a way to incorporate it into our arsenal of racquet tuning and stringing techniques.

The “Pillow Top Tri-Brid” ™ method is truly dynamic and exciting.  It can incorporate and neatly blend the playing properties of 3 strings into the stringbed.  In the image above we have used 3 different colored strings for illustration purposes.  The outer later of strings (white) is the key to this method.  These are the multis.  They essentially act as a pillow-top or cloud.  Their main purpose is to absorb the shock of off-center hits and also help absorb and dampen the shock of shots hit in the sweetspot.  By using multis in approximately 1/3 of the stringbed, we hoped to achieve more feel and touch than full poly can offer.  The desired outcome was to create the same or more playability with this setup than a traditional poly-based/multi hybrid.

The center mains (red)  in the above image are hexagonal poly-based strings.  We decided to playtest these with the desire of getting the maximum amount of spin.  We crossed them with a new poly-based twist string (black).  With the explosion of new poly-based choices, there are a plethora of possible combinations when mixing the properties of 3 different strings.  Add to these the completely unique playing properties of the WeissCANNON TurboTwist (a twisted poly-based string with high elasticity offering feel of a synthetic) and we literally can provide cornucopia of playability options for our customers.  (NOTE: It is also possible and probably more common to use the same poly-based string for the center mains and crosses.)

Our exclusive “Pillow Top Tri-Brid” ™ has evolved tremendously over the past few weeks.  Because a three piece pattern uses 6 knots and knots are where tension is lost we had to find a way to address the issue so that tension loss would not impact playability.  Making sure tension does not leak is especially important with the red mains and the final black cross because they are in the meaty part of the stringbed.  Using a string meter we were able to identify the amount of tension loss in tying off at these points and adjust the tension by increasing it on the pulls that would be tied off.

Next we discovered that using a consistent reference tension led to uneven stiffness based upon type of string and length of pull.  We were also concerned that a higher percentage of poly-based strings would reduce the desired shock dampening properties of the setup.  Using the tenants of proportional stringing we have been able to make adjustments that allow the multis to achieve all of the desirable characteristics we were seeking.

We want to thank our playtesters for helping us as we have perfected the “Pillow Top Tri-Brid” ™.  (We wish Harrison was NOT in Brazil as his feedback would be interesting!) Through their feedback we have been able to revise and hone the process to something that is nearly ready to hit the mainstream.  The results to date, according to our playtest team, have exceeded our expectations.  The playtesters have been delighted with the results and 100%  are eager to continue stringing with this method going forward.  We are extremely excited to bring “Pillow Top Tri-Brid” ™  (PTTB)  to our local stringing customers in the coming weeks.  (Watch out 2010, we are going ROGUE!)

Players seeking the performance of poly-based/multi hybrids are the desired audience for this stringing process.  The multi will add comfort and added playability while durability will be vastly superior to traditional hybrids.  The proportional component we have added coupled with the possible combination of string types will allow the process to be highly customized to meet the desired performance of the customer.

Because each frame is different we need to create a custom map for optimizing the performance of each racquet.  Currently this is biggest bug in the ointment.  For the initial stringing we need to string the frame and measure the results.  We then take notes, cut out strings, restring with adjusted tension where needed and record the results.  This will increase the initial cost to customers.   We will have to explore ways to reduce costs for our customers.

We do not anticipate using the “Pillow Top Tri-Brid” ™ on port-style frames because it would require us to tie off on an open port.  While we do not believe this would cause damage to the frame, we also do not know how the knot may move/react. This is something we still have to test to see if it is possible…I mean since we’re going rogue, we may as well go all the way!

NOTE to stringers and customers:  The “Pillow Top Tri-Brid” ™ requires opening new tie-off holes and while it will do no damage to your racquet frame, we are pretty sure using this process will void the remaining manufacturer’s warranty.

NEW NOTE (11/25/09): We have been alerted that some stringers are posting their version of a tri-brid pattern on message boards.  We have reviewed the patterns posted and they are NOT the pattern we use.  PLEASE keep the following in mind.  When stringing the mains, they are strung IN SEQUENCE no more than 2 ahead on either side…keeping in accordance with safe stringing practices.  Specifically stringing outer mains and later filling in has potential to damage a frame and we in no way endorse or advocate this practice when using a tri-brid pattern.

LOS ANGELES, CA – Just in time for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, the highly innovative folks from Ronco, are about to unleash an all out infomercial assault.  Ron Popeil refers to the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer as “the most significant impact product ever introduced from the Ronco stable.” An impressive declaration from the man who brought us such memorable and revered products as “The Pocket Fisherman, ” “Mister Microphone” and the “Inside the Shell Egg Scrambler!”

Ronco has been viewed by industry analysts as a fading star in the food appliance and gadgetry market ever since the introduction of the George Foreman Grill which has flourished under a competing label. As the “Lean Mean Grilling Machine” continues devouring Ronco’s market share, the company is clearly becoming increasingly desperate to survive and to somehow reclaim the heavyweight title of “Appliance and Gadgetry King” it once wore so proudly.

Toward that end, the Ronco public relations machine has been working overtime cranking out publicity that is already generating a huge appetite for Ronco’s newest product.

“We’re putting the final touches on a knockout infomercial that will be ready to hit the living rooms of billions next week!” states Popeil, the crown prince of hyperbole.

The infomercial brings a new, irreverent, and cutting edge, in-your-face type of approach to the infomercial genre. Who better to serve as the spokesperson than Mike Tyson? “A potentially explosive, dangerous and extremely combustible product such as the turkey fryer demands a spokesperson equally as combustible and unpredictable. It’s simply a stroke of unabashed marketing genius!” proclaims Advertising Week magazine who previewed the infomercial and marketing campaign in their most recent edition.

The concept represents innovative thinking at its finest and most devious. Ronco is positioning the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer as the world’s most dangerous appliance and are playing up the elements of danger as a desired selling point. Since men tend to be the consumers who purchase and use turkey fryers, they are pitching the product to appeal to an exaggerated sense of machismo. “If you don’t cook your holiday turkeys in the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer, you obviously are deficient of an X chromosome!”

The diagram below demonstrates the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer in action and at its best–a device that boldly claims to have invented and patented the exclusive “char-frying” process.

Mmmm…Mmmm!!! Char-frying a turkey in the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer is the only way to go! Seared inside the charred exterior is delectably moist turkey meat, the likes of which you have never before tasted…”it’s a knockout!” proclaims Mike Tyson himself in the infomercial. Unlike conventional turkey fryers, the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer relies on heating the oil to a blistering 934 degrees Fahrenheit.

1. Step one (left) shows the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer ready to receive the holiday fowl.

2. Step two shows the bird in the earliest stages of cooking. Remarkably the process only takes 25 – 30 seconds per pound. A 15 pound bird is done in an impressive 7.5 minutes.

3. Step three shows the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer in full action and glory, just seconds before dinner is to be removed.

Using the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer adds elements of fun, danger and intrigue, to an otherwise tepid, time consuming, and boring process. When using the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer , the turkey is actually cooked faster than the mashed potatoes or any of the trimmings for that matter! No more need spending hours basting and carefully watching the bird. With the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer , just pop in the turkey and within minutes, you are ready to eat…assuming you survive.

Consistent with the brilliant marketing and public relations plan, the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer will be available for a single payment of $65.00. “A three installment payment plan for a device as potentially lethal as this just doesn’t make sense…we’ll never see the final two payments,” quips a Ronco spokesperson. “Compared to other competing fryers on the market, which are obviously not nearly as dangerous and don’t fully utilize the exclusive patented “Char-frying” process, this is a steal!”

But wait, there’s more! In addition to the Iron Mike Turkey Fryer , those making the purchase in the next 30 days will also receive a free flame retardant suit as pictured above and a turbo jet fire extinguisher…a $210.00 value! But that’s not all, Ronco is even throwing in a Fuji disposable camera so you can capture what could very well be your loved one’s final moments as he heroically removes the turkey for the family dinner.

(This piece was originally created a few years ago.  It has not appeared on our blog site and we thought our readers might enjoy it.  Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families.)

According to the United States Racquet Stringer’s Association, it is acceptable to pull tension 2 – 3 ahead on the main strings.  Stringer’s who follow this practice regularly are able to achieve CRT and MRT status.  While considered acceptable industry practice, we are not convinced this technique creates the most consistent stringbed possible.  As a result of this belief we have altered our technique to one where we pull tension on each alternate main as a matter of routine.

With the use of a Stringmeter and ERT we have been testing this premise in our shop.  While tensioning mains 2 or 3 ahead before alternating sides we are able to achieve consistent ERT (stringbed stiffness) readings.  However, we have discovered that when measuring individual strings with a Stringmeter that an interesting phenomena exists.  It seems that parrallel strings (i.e. main #4 on each half of frame) offer identical readings when strings are tensioned using a strict alternating method of tensioning. (Alternating tension on each side going no more than 1 ahead).  However, when using a method of pulling tension 2 or 3 ahead the reading on parrallel strings can vary by 3 – 10 pounds!  The amount of variance is not consistent, or at least with our limited testing we can not identify a pattern or formula.  What we can identify is that a technique consisting of tensioning 2 -3 main strings before alternating sides creates a level of variance that can be measured with a Stringmeter, but does not register on an ERT.

Of course this raises some key questions for stringers.  Can players perceive this variance or is it insignificant if the overall stringbed stiffness is consistent?  What causes this variance?

Our response to the later, is that this variance could very likely be caused by frame flex.  In spite of secure 6 point mounting systems of today’s advanced machines, the racquet will experience some degree of flex while being strung in any machine (with the possible exception of True Tension machines).  We hypothesize that the uneven tensioning creates a flex situation that leads to results with undesired variances.

At this point in time we are unclear as to how or if this variance can alter the play of the racquet.  What we have been able to do is to identify it as an area that needs additional study.  We will need to call on the industry physicists, engineers and the USRSA to explore this further and determine if it is a factor that is or is not important for generating a stringbed that produces ultimate playability.

Until more information is generated, our customers can be assured that all racquets strung by us will be done focusing on the most consistent outcome, even if it extends the time to complete the stringjob by a few minutes.

Today’s blog topic comes from a frequently asked question received via email and telephone from our customers.  We are often asked about prestretching poly-based strings.  While there are varying opinions on the topic, our position is resoundingly firm.  “Poly-based strings should NOT be prestretched.”

Because poly-based strings offer excellent durability from friction wear, the perception is that they are a macho product.

Impervious to beatings…
Strong like a bull…
Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound…
(You get the picture)

In reality, poly-based strings are more delicate and fragile than most strngers and players realize.  They need to be handled very carefully during the installation process…Especially many of today’s new poly-based strings that include chemicals and additives designed to make them softer. Poly-based strings should be treated as carefully, or moreso, than natural gut during the stringing process.  Failure to treat them properly can result in premature breakage and cause the string not to perform  to its potential.

For poly-based strings elasticity, (the ability to stretch out and return to original form), is supremely important.  Stringing at too high of a tension sucks much of the elasticity out of poly-based strings and prestretching has the same effect.

Proponents argue that tension loss can be reduced by prestretching.  They argue that the 13% – 20% initial tension loss can be reduced/better managed with a prestretch.  This may be true.  However, there is a HUGE FALSE ASSUMPTION lingering around the stringing universe that loss of tension = loss of playability.  In some cases, this can be true, but in most cases it is not.  I believe the perceived relationship between loss of tension and loss of playability is overblown and misunderstood.  In fact, Cross and Lindsey in The Physics and Technology of Tennis found that strings maintained their energy, resiliency and elasticity even after experiencing tension loss.  “We found that the energy loss was not zero, but close enough to zero to make no significant difference in the calculations.” (Chapter 30)

Tension loss can easily be measured with many of today’s tools.  It is perceived to be evil.  While there is no denying that it is a factor that can alter playability of a racquet, we would argue in the world of poly-based strings that tension loss is not as critical of a factor as loss of elasticity.  It is the ELASTICITY of poly-based strings that allow them to offer the desired performance.  PRESTRETCHING can damage/reduce this elasticity which is the main reason we do not advocate prestretching poly-based strings.

As our blog readers know, we could ramble onward ad nauseum.  Our goal was to keep this entry short while providing some context/support for our response.

“No, poly-based strings should not be prestretched.”

Please feel free to leave your thoughts and comments in the designated section below.

Last week the tennis world was dealt an unexpected surprise as Andre Agassi’s publisher released a disturbing preview of Agassi’s autobiography.  It seems that one of the world’s most beloved players was a frequent user of crystal methamphetamine in the late 1990’s.

Our crack research staff has uncovered a source who claims to have met a person who is the cousin of a friend of a pizza delivery guy who has read an early draft of the autobiography.  This source reports to the mighty RACQUETY-YAK blog team that the usage of illegal drugs and subsequent weave of lies is just the tip of the iceberg.

If our source is accurate, on November 9th, when the autobiography “Open” goes on sale, we may learn more shocking revelations that promise to keep an army of ATP tour PR professionals busy for weeks.  In a rare move, the code of silence is broken and dirt is dished on many of Agassi’s contemporaries.   We have an exclusive preview of these revelations for our blog readers.

- In Chapter 3 we learn  Jim Courier was a poker buddy of Bruno Rebeu (Famous French Tennis Umpire).  Jim and Bruno regularly yukked it up at private monthly poker parties.  Bruno would introduce a disguised Courier to participants as “Harvey…Carrot top’s older brother.”

- In Chapter 5 it is unveiled that  Pat Cash  smuggled Cuban cigars to many major tournament executives in exchange for favorable draws, start times and court assignments.  He also enjoyed playing tennis in the buff.

- Chapter 7 supposedly reveals that  Stefan Edberg tortured kittens.  Who’d have thought?

- In Chapter 8 we learn Boris Becker listened to Shania Twain songs repeatedly on his walkman to mentally prepare for matches.

- Chapter 10 details  Michael Chang as a reputed ladies man.

- The 11th Chapter features claims that James Scott Connors secretly enjoyed bubble baths and pedicures the evening before big matches.

- Chapter 12 gives the lurid details of Ivan Lendl’s private hell.    He was stalked and referred to as “Man Candy” by supermodels Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer and Cheryl Tiegs.  They pursued him relentlessly. (Apparently Chang wasn’t their type).

- Chapter 15 describes Gilbert as a hell of a coach in spite of his twisted hobbies.  We learn Gilbert was a serial peeper who documented his peeps on film.  Agassi describes Gilbert’s collection of images as quite “eclectic” but is most disturbed by his extensive collection of former Oakland Raider players and executives.

Assuming our source is correct, this autobiography is going to sizzle.  We can’t wait for November 9th and hope you enjoyed this exclusive preview of what may be coming.

With racquet manufacturers announcing new models for 2010, now could be the best time to score a terrific deal on a current model racquet.  Technology that just a few short months ago was being touted as the most advanced in the world is either currently on sale or will be soon.  If you are in the market for a new stick, this may be the ideal time to find yourself a steal of a deal!

Now is also the time if you have a current model racquet that you enjoy hitting with to purchase a backup or two.  Due to being discontinued, they will become very difficult to find in the near future so grab one or two and stick them in your closet until needed.  By doing this now you will get them for a good price and there is a good chance you will be able to locate them with your preferred grip size.

Also, now is the time to purchase replacement grommet sets for your current racquet.  Hold onto them, because they may soon too be discontinued.  If you intend to stay with your current racquet for a few more years, make preparations to do so now.

As always we strongly encourage you to purchase racquets with healthy racquet specifications. Unfortunately racquet manufacturers produce many models that are not arm-friendly and it is essential for your uniterrupted play and enjoyment that these be avoided.  As a service to our customers we are including the following information to aid you as you select a racquet that is arm-friendly.  Note, the following suggestions are based on our observations and experience.

Stiffness: An RDC flex rating in the mid 60’s or lower.  Try to avoid any flex rating above 68.  This is the only aspect of the frame that can not be modified. We believe lower is better.  60 and lower is our ideal range.

Weight: Racquets weighing in at 11 oz  or greater tend to be healthiest.  Try to avoid racquets falling in the sub 10 oz range.  Weight can be modified.

Balance: Racquets with a headlight balance are preferred.  Even balance is acceptable.  The racquet’s balance can be modified.

Length: 27″ – 27 1/4″ is ideal.  Longer can create issues.  Length can be modified.

Wondering if your frame is healthy?  Curious about the specs of a new frame you are considering purchasing?  Ask us in the comments section of this blog and we will attempt to respond with our perception of the racquet you are considering.

Earlier this month we had the opportunity to interact with some of the top professionals in the world of racquet stringing and customization.  One particular session we found facinating was facilitated by Mr. John Elliott who flew in from France to share some of his observations and thoughts on world of poly-based strings.  During his presentation we noted the following observations he has made through his years of working with polyester strings.

- Polyester strings are sensitive to the cold.

- Basic polys offer less than 2 hours of string life.

- Luxilon ALU strings are a very high quality offering.  Similar to formula one performance racing tires in that they perform well for a short period of time and then need to be replaced.  (Optimal performance time is very limited, usually less than a match)

- Tension determines the length of the ball.  2 pounds of tension equates to 1 yard of ball length.  Increase 2 pounds to reduce length by one yard, decrease 2 pounds to increase one yard.

- Stringmeter tool is more accurate than most people give credit for.  The reason the readings vary from string to string is due to either the stringing machine or the stringer.  A number of variables can lead to inconsistency. Ideally the tension of all main (except outer most mains) strings should measure the same with this tool.

- The best playing racquet set-up for recreational and league players is a hybrid with a poly-based main and synthetic gut cross string (not a multi).

- Racquet tuning is not the same as racquet stringing.  Racquet tuning is working toward an end result…the desired stringbed stiffness.

- To tune racquet, find desired stringbed stiffness.  Ask customer to let you know when racquet is performing optimally.  Using stringmeter, measure string tension.  Increase +4 pounds for polys and +10 pounds for nylon at next stringing.  Also use Dynamic Tension readings to confirm.

- Stringing is most consistent and best when stringer uses a FLUID and REPEATABLE motion.

- With friction tension in crosses ends up measuring approx. 1/3 less in crosses than mains when strung at same reference tension.

Obviously Mr. Elliott provides much food for thought and future discussion.  We will likely find some of these very themes emerging as future individual blog entries.  As always we thank you for visiting our blog and invite you to participate by leaving your comments and questions below.

Guts and Glory Tennis spent last weekend attending the Grand Slam Stringer’s Symposium in FL.  We had the opportunity to speak directly with major racquet company product deisgners and product development specialists.  We came to the unfortunate conclusion that all the whining and complaining about unhealthy racquet specifications in the world is not going to change their thinking.  They deny the specs are unhealthy, preferring to blame the mechanics of the player.  They intend to continue producing lightweight, stiff frames until the public or retailers stop purchasing them.

While we will definitely try to rally support for a grassroot boycot of these products, it seems unlikely that enough support will be gathered in the short-term.  A boycott certainly does not help those currently suffering from tennis elbow.

Guts and Glory Tennis is coming to the rescue.  We will begin to offer a racquet modification service for our local stringing customers suffering from racquet related arm and shoulder pain.  We are in the process of securing the equipment to make the necessary alterations to help make your racquet more arm friendly.  The only specification of the racquet that can not be altered is the stiffness.  So, in this regard, if you are planning on purchasing a new racquet in the future, we STRONGLY encourage you to ask about the flex/stiffness rating.  We suggest an ideal range of 50’s – 60.  Measurements of 61 – 65 should also be acceptable, though not as good.  We would strongly discourage stiffness ratings above 68.

Stringers  from all over the world will convene in Orlando this weekend.  World class seminar leaders will be on hand to share first hand knowledge and insights.  We will be attending for our second consecutive year and we are filled with high expectations and excitement.

We of course are looking forward to several formal sessions we will be attending, who wouldn’t with the wonderful presenters???  However, perhaps even more interesting, is the format change.  Sessions will allow for discussion afterward as well as discussion groups each evening.  These informal networking and information sharing sessions will allow for optimal interaction and learning.  We hope to both learn and share by taking advantage of these.

We plan to seek out responses to tough questions.  Why do racquet manufacturers continue to produce racquets with unhealthy specifications?  We’ll be all over this one.  Unethical behavior by online resellers?  We will seek out answers to questions about some sketchy behaviors.  Why can’t professional stringers in the USA have access to Head pallets?  Hoping to find some answers and perhaps lead a charge for change.  Does the USRSA really believe the data it provides is objective and accurate?  We’ll see how far we can get with this one, but not expecting much on that front.  Topspin tennis; what in the world are they thinking?  We hope to talk to the owner and founder who will be in attendance.

We will also be tweeting LIVE from the conference.  Be sure to follow us on Twitter for up to the minute action.  Our Twitter site will be a great source for breaking information and updates from the Grand Slam Stringers Symposium.  We will use this blog to summarize afterward and may come back with some fun surprises to share with our readers.  Stay tuned…