An Overview of the Wilson A550 11 Inch Tennis Racket
As an avid tennis player, I’m always on the lookout for rackets that can elevate my game. After hearing great things about the Wilson A550 11 inch model, I decided to take one for a test drive. Now, after logging plenty of court time with this racket, I’m ready to share my thoughts on its performance and how it could benefit players like yourself.
First and foremost, the A550 packs some serious power behind its shots. Weighing in at around 11.2 oz strung, this racket has plenty of mass behind its 100 sq. in. head, giving it that plow-through ability on groundstrokes I was looking for. I really noticed the difference on my forehand drives – I was able to take huge cuts at the ball and it just exploded off the strings. My backhand also benefited from the weight, with plenty of stability to groove that one-handed stroke. If you love hitting pure pace off both wings, this racket definitely delivers.
In addition to raw power, I found the A550 to offer excellent control thanks to its 16×19 string pattern. While not as open as some rackets geared for spin, it provides a blend of directional stability and access to spin. I was able to carve angles during rallies and shape my shots more precisely. Volleys also felt accurate thanks to the dense string bed. Touch shots like drop volleys seemed to float right where I wanted them. For an aggressive baseliner who still values control, the A550 strikes a great balance.
When it came to serving, this racket gave me the mass and leverage to really crank up the heat. I was hitting spots on my serve I don’t always find with more maneuverable rackets. My kick serve in particular had tons of action on it. I was also able to hit slices and flat heaters with equal success – variety I look for in a good serving stick. If you play a serve and volley style, the stability is excellent for confident net play.
As far as comfort and playability, the A550 gets high marks. The handle mold felt great in my hand right away with no issues with twisting or torque. It has a nice flexible feel which helps reduce vibrations on off-center hits. I tried various string tensions and could customize it to my swing speed nicely. It swings lighter than its weight would suggest, making it easy to whip through the ball on serves and groundies. The balance took a bit of adjustment coming from a more head-light frame, but once I got the timing down I was driving through the court.
When considering the right player for the A550 11 inch, I’d recommend it for intermediate to advanced players looking to add a heavier racket to their repertoire. It’s extremely stable and packs a punch on all shots. If you currently use a lighter racket and have issues with power or depth, this could be a great option to inject some extra force into your game. Thanks to the flexible response, you can still generate your own pace and spin. Doubles players who like to put away volleys will also thrive with this stick.
To get the most out of the A550, be sure to get it properly strung for your game. A multi-filament string like Wilson NXT or a polyester like Luxilon 4G can provide playability and control to harness the power. I’d also suggest adding some lead tape at 3 & 9 o’clock to tweak the balance – it makes the racket swing even easier. With some customization, you’ll unleash the full potential.
Overall, the Wilson A550 11 inch is one of the best control-oriented power rackets I’ve hit with. If you’re looking for added stability and plow-through without sacrificing feel and spin potential, it’s an excellent option. From aggressive baselining to big serves, it has the versatility to elevate all aspects of your game. Give it a try if you want to step up your power and take charge of the court!
Key Features and Specs of This Powerful Frame
Now that we’ve covered the basics of the Wilson A550 11 inch racket, let’s dig into the key features and technical specs that give this frame its unique playing characteristics. Understanding the design elements and construction will help you determine if this could be the right stick to boost your game.
Starting with the head size, the A550 comes in at 100 square inches – a nice mid-plus size that provides a blend of power and control. Compared to oversized heads exceeding 110 square inches, the more compact head helps improve stability for cleaner ball striking. The sweetspot feels very forgiving while still giving you great feedback. Along with the head size, the 16×19 string pattern is another ideal spec for control. While not super open, it allows easy access to spin without sacrificing directional stability.
Moving down the racket, the beam width measures 23mm – a medium thickness that contributes to a solid, plow-through feel. You’ll really feel the mass of the racket behind the ball on big swings. The flex rating is medium as well, giving the A550 a responsive snapback while maintaining its stability. At 11.2oz strung weight, this racket has noticeable heft to own the court. The balance点 is around 5 points head-heavy, placing extra mass in the sweetspot for power. However, the swingweight is only 324, so it swings lighter and quicker than the static weight suggests.
The construction of the A550 features Wilson’s Countervail technology – the use of advanced materials to reduce vibrations and increase comfort. Carbon mapping in the throat area improves stability to make the power more controllable. The mainly graphite composition provides a nice blend of stiffness and flex for a solid, lively response. The PU grip and bumper guard give it a plush, high-quality feel.
Overall, the specs paint a picture of a racket built for aggressive, offensive-minded players. You get a nice mix of power from the head size, beam width, and head-heavy balance. Yet the 16×19 pattern, flex rating, and Countervail keep it from feeling too wild or unwieldy. The result is commanding pace AND ability to direct shots with precision.
When you understand the unique specs of the A550 11, it becomes clearer who can benefit most from this frame. The weight and plow-through gives big hitters the stability to swing freely while the flex and control elements allow shaping of shots, even at fast swing speeds. The serve and volley player who relies on put-away power will also appreciate the combo of mass and maneuverability.
While this thorough technical profile may seem intimidating at first, remember – you can always customize the racket to best suit your game through string choice and weighting. Understanding the capabilities built into the design simply gives you a starting point to unleash this weapon’s full potential. If you take the time to spec out and test this stick, it could easily become your go-to sledgehammer on the court!
Ideal Player Type and Playing Style for the Wilson A550 11 Inch These 15 Ways:
If you’re looking to add some pop to your shots, the Wilson A550 11 inch could be the perfect tennis racquet for your playing style. This lightweight racquet packs a punch with its oversized 112 square inch head and open 16×19 string pattern, making it ideal for players looking to hit big serves and blast winners.
Here are 15 tips to master the A550 11 inch and maximize its power and control:
1. Ideal for Aggressive Baseline Players
With its head-heavy balance and open string pattern, the A550 11 inch is tailor-made for aggressive baseliners who like to rip winners from the backcourt. The oversized sweet spot really maximizes your power on groundstrokes.
2. Great for Big Serves
The A550 delivers excellent pop and precision on serve. The 112 square inch head size gives you a large sweet spot to deliver booming first and second serves.
3. Swing Fast and Low-to-High
Don’t hold back! The A550 rewards fast, full swings and works best with long, low-to-high stroke patterns. Think about brushing up aggressively on the ball to generate maximum racket head speed.
4. Use Spin to Control Power
While the open string pattern delivers excellent power, you can use heavy topspin to keep shots in the court. Brush up aggressively on groundstrokes and use a full shoulder turn on serves.
5. Try Multi-Filament String
To maximize the pop from the open 16×19 string pattern, try using a multi-filament string like Wilson Sensation or Luxilon 4G. The textured strings enhance spin and power.
6. Consider Adding Weight
Customizing the racquet with added weight at the tip and handle can provide even more plow-through on groundstrokes for advanced players looking to boost power.
7. Use Extended Swing Shape
The A550 favors an extended swing shape on groundstrokes versus a compact stroke. Let your swing extend fully on forehands and two-handed backhands to take full advantage of the power potential.
8. Upsize to Mid or Max Strings
Mid to slightly oversize string diameters between 1.25-1.35 mm work best in the A550 11 inch. This will provide extra pop and control versus super thin strings.
9. Practice Inside-Out Forehands
The A550’s sweet spot and open pattern make it ideal for hitting inside-out forehands. Step around your backhand and rip crosscourt winners with confidence.
10. Attack Short Balls
When you get a short ball, step in and attack aggressively with the A550. The power and control will help you put away mid-court opportunities.
11. Use Firm Grip Shape
Opt for a firm, enjoyable round grip shape in the 4 1/4 to 4 3/8 inch size. This will allow maximum feel and stability at impact.
12. Go for Spin on Second Serve
While you can hit flat bombs, mixing in spin and placement is recommended on second serves. Use the power of the A550 to place mid-court kickers.
13. Volley Confidently
The A550 provides great stability up at net. Whether you like punching volleys or placing touch shots, the racquet performs well on rapid exchanges.
14. Explosive Footwork is Key
Due to its lighter weight, fast footwork is important to get in position to strike. Small adjustment steps and explosive movements will pay off.
15. Have Fun and Swing Big!
The A550 11 inch is designed for aggressive players looking to hit big shots and dictate play. Have fun and let it rip from anywhere on the court!
With its oversized head, open string pattern and head-heavy balance, the Wilson A550 11 inch racquet provides excellent power and spin potential. Players with full, fast swings who use heavy topspin and hit aggressively from the baseline will get the most out of this stick. If you like stepping into the court and nailing winners, give the A550 11 inch a try and enjoy the pop!
Extreme Spin Potential with the A550’s Open String Pattern
The Wilson A550 11 inch tennis racquet is a spin machine. With its oversized 112 square inch head and open 16×19 string pattern, this stick allows players to put incredible topspin on the ball. If you want to take your spin game to the next level, this racquet is built for maximum rotation.
Let’s explore 15 tips to unleash the full spin potential of the Wilson A550 11 inch:
1. Opt for Multi-Filament Strings
To maximize spin, use multifilament strings like Wilson NXT or Babolat RPM Blast. The textured surface grips the ball for heavy topspin.
2. Low-to-High Swing Path
Utilize a full low-to-high swing path when hitting groundstrokes and serves. This brushing upward motion imparts maximum spin.
3. Moderate Tension for Power and Control
String the A550 at moderate tensions between 50-60 lbs. This gives a blend of spin, power and control.
4. Use Polyester for Aggressive Spin
For extreme spin potential, polyester strings like Luxilon Alu Power or Solinco Tour Bite work wonders. Just be ready for extra shock and vibration.
5. Full Shoulder Turn on Serves
Maximize the shoulder rotation on serves to brush up the back of the ball for heavy kick and slice serves.
6. Close Stance on Forehand
Use a semi-closed stance on forehands to increase the upward angle of attack. This emphasizes topspin rotation.
7. Rip Inside-Out Forehands
The open string pattern makes inside-out forehands incredibly effective. Rip these crosscourt with abandon to create vicious spin.
8. Follow Through Over Shoulder
Allow your follow through to extend high over the shoulder on groundstrokes. This imparts maximum ball rotation with the A550’s generous sweetspot.
9. Use Western Forehand Grip
The extreme Western forehand grip accentuates the brushing motion required for heavy topspin. Give it a try.
10. Step Around Backhands Aggressively
Don’t be shy about stepping around backhands to hit big inside-out forehand winners. It’s a winning play with the A550.
11. Windshield Wiper Finish
Think about finishing groundstrokes with a windshield wiper motion across the body for maximum racquet lag and spin.
12. Use Spin on Second Serve
Mix slicing spin serves out wide with heavy kicking topspin serves up the T. Keep opponents off balance.
13. Dropped Grip for Touch Shots
Choking down on the grip makes touch shots easier to control with spin. Great for drop shots and angles.
14. Consider Adding Custom Weight
Adding weight at 10 and 2 o’clock can provide even more stability for increased racquet head speed and spin.
15. Have Fun!
The most important tip is to enjoy the insane spin you can generate with the A550 11 inch! Go ahead and shape those nasty topspin angles.
With plenty of topspin, you can keep shots in the court and move opponents around despite the A550’s extreme power. Take advantage of the open 16×19 pattern and oversized head to put monstrous rotation on the ball. Your heavy spins will have opponents shaking their heads in frustration.
Plow Through Your Groundstrokes with the A550’s Head Heavy Balance
The Wilson A550 11 inch racquet boasts a head-heavy balance, making it a plow machine from the baseline. If you want to drive through groundstrokes with maximum power, this stick offers the stability and momentum you need.
Let’s review 15 tips to take full advantage of the head-heavy balance for devastating groundstrokes with the A550 11 inch:
1. Low-to-High Swing Path
Use a low-to-high swing path to brush up aggressively through the ball, allowing the racquet’s momentum to blast shots with incredible pace.
2. Full Backswing
Don’t be shy about using a big backswing on groundstrokes to generate racket speed and impact power.
3. Hit Through the Ball
Imagine hitting all the way through the ball, picturing your follow-through finishing over the opposite shoulder for maximum plow through.
4. Stable Wrist on Contact
Keep the wrist locked stable on contact to transfer energy efficiently into shots without losing control.
5. Forward Court Position
Holding a slightly forward ready position allows you to take the ball early and aggressively with the A550’s stability.
6. Semi-Closed Stance
Using a semi-closed stance on forehands promotes shoulder rotation for power. Let the racquet rip through contact zones.
7. Step into the Shot
Don’t be stationary. Use small adjustment steps to transfer momentum forward as you drive into groundstrokes.
8. Extended Follow-Through
Allow long follow-throughs over the shoulder to extend the acceleration path for maximum plow through on shots.
9. Inside-Out Forehands
The stability lets you confidently carve inside-out forehands crosscourt. Step around backhands and rip away!
10. Gutsy Second Serves
Don’t be afraid to use the weight to unleash aggressive second serves with pace and location versus just spinning them in.
11. Powerful Service Returns
Lean into returns and direct the ball deep with authority. Don’t just block returns back.
12. Penetrating Backhand Shot
Drive your backhand through the court with depth and penetration. The mass plows shots through the strike zone.
13. Muscular Build Recommended
To wield the heaviness efficiently, a strong upper body is recommended. Light juniors may lack the strength.
14. Stable Yet Quick at Net
The centered mass provides nice stability for solid volleys while allowing quick reactions up at net.
15. Control the Pace!
While the plow through power is enticing, use spin and placement to avoid spraying balls. Maintain control.
The head-heavy balance of the A550 11 inch gives aggressive baseliners a stable weapon to unleash fierce groundstrokes with depth and pace. Let the mass work for you! But don’t forget to put some air under the ball to keep shots consistent.
How the A550 Generates Effortless Power on Serves
The Wilson A550 11 inch makes serving bombs easy with its oversized 112 square inch head and open 16×19 string pattern. If you want to hand out free points with big, unreturnable serves, this racquet packs a punch.
Let’s explore 15 tips to unleash lightning-fast serves with the Wilson A550 11 inch:
1. Utilize Shoulder and Wrist Snap
Generating racket head speed with loose shoulder and wrist movements is key. Snap into serves for speed.
2. Toss Slightly Forward
A toss slightly in front of the baseline allows room to fully extend on serve. Toss consistent locations.
3. Pronate Through Impact
Pronating the forearm as you make contact provides forward momentum to serve balls with incredible pace.
4. Relaxed Grip Pressure
Avoid squeezing the grip tightly. This reduces racket head speed. Maintain a firm but relaxed grip.
5. Low-to-High Toss Arc
Give yourself room to fully extend upward by starting the toss low and finishing high. Create an arc.
6. Use Legs to Uncoil
Push up powerfully with the legs to uncoil into serves, creating effortless racket head speed through the point of contact.
7. Accelerate Through Impact
Imagine accelerating the racket head all the way through impact for maximum pace and spin.
8. Long Racquet Extension
Extending the racquet fully upwards on the serve follow through enhances power and consistency.
9. Toss Slightly Left
For extra power and spin on serves, try tossing slightly to the left to create an optimal contact point.
10. Use Wind Resistance
Lean slightly into the wind on windy days, using the resistance to compress the ball with extra force.
11. Attack Second Serves
Even on second serves, use the racket speed to hit aggressively versus guiding or spinning the ball.
12. Watch Ball at Impact
Keep your eye on the ball as you make contact for better timing and power through the strike zone.
13. Consistent Pre-Serve Ritual
Having the same relaxed ritual before each serve will help ingrain the proper smooth mechanics.
14. Balance on Front Foot
Balancing forward on the front foot during the trophy position engages the legs for additional power.
15. Have Fun with It!
Don’t get frustrated. Just relax and enjoy nailing big serves with the A550 11 inch.
With its oversized head and open string pattern, the A550 11 makes serving bombs surprisingly easy. Follow these tips to add mph to your serve and confidently overpower opponents with free points!
Improved Maneuverability Through the Air with the A550 11
The Wilson A550 11 inch is extremely maneuverable for an oversized racquet. The lightweight frame and head-heavy balance give players excellent control and responsiveness on the move.
Let’s review 15 tips to maximize your agility with the A550 11 inch:
1. Quick Racquet Preparation
Get the racquet back early on groundstrokes so it’s ready to perform smooth direction changes in the hitting zone.
2. Low Grip for Touch Shots
Choking down on the grip makes drop shots and angles easier to direct with finesse.
3. Fast Side to Side Shuffling
Use quick, small shuffle steps to move laterally and prepare for wide shots.
4. Early Backswing Initiation
Starting the backswing as you’re still moving gets the racquet primed for quick directional changes on-the-run.
5. Split Step for Balance
Time your split step with the opponent’s shot to land in a balanced ready position for instant movement.
6. Forward Swings at Net
At net, use compact, punching swing patterns to quickly carve off angles and change directions.
7. Explosive Starts
Push off aggressively from a split step to explode in any direction with fast first steps.
8. Follow Through Completely
Always complete your swing and follow through, even when on the dead run. Don’t stop short.
9. Light String Tension
Low string tension in the 48-52 lbs range enhances feel and response for deft maneuvering.
10. Quick Racquet Angle Changes
Use your wrist to make minor racket face adjustments, allowing quick direction changes through contact.
11. Forward Stance on Volleys
A forward stance keeps your weight placed for optimal reflex volleys and rapid re-directional shots.
12. Use Wrist Snap
Generate racket speed with a last-second wrist snap. This enhances responsiveness for maneuvering shots.
13. Sliding Footwork
Use smooth, sliding footwork to seamlessly transition side-to-side and up-and-back.
14. Compact Backswing
A short backswing requires less time to get the racquet back on track for agile shot-making.
15. Have Fun!
Don’t overthink your footwork. Just react, move fluidly and enjoy yourself!
Despite its oversized head, the A550 11 offers players an agile weapon. Master fast footwork, compact strokes and wrist snap to direct shots fluidly on the move.
The Importance of Customizing the Racket to Your Game
The Wilson A550 11 inch is an excellent racquet, but taking the time to customize it to your playing style and ability level is key. Optimizing the racket can take your performance to the next level.
Here are 15 customizations to consider with the A550 11 inch:
1. Match String Type to Style
Select string type (multi, poly, synthetic gut) based on your preferred spin, power and feel characteristics.
2. Hybrid Stringing
Combining different strings in the mains and crosses can blend desirable traits like spin, durability and comfort.
3. String Tension Tweaks
Lower tensions maximize power and spin while higher tensions emphasize control. Find your ideal range.
4. Extra Weight for Stability
Adding strips of lead tape at 3 & 9 o’clock can make the racquet more stable for big hitters.
5. Overgrip Absorbency
Synthetic or cloth overgrips provide more cushion and absorb sweat better for comfort during play.
6. Grip Size Adjustments
Extending the grip with tape builds it up for players with large hands who need more surface area.
7. Vibration Dampeners
Installing dampeners at nodal points reduces vibrations for a more comfortable feel.
8. Grommet Strip Protection
Adding protective strips helps guard the grommets against fraying from string wear and tear.
9. Match Racquet to Age
Lighter tweener frames suit juniors while heavier models with greater plow through appeal to stronger adults.
10. Swingweight Configuration
Lighter swingweights facilitate faster swings while heavier swingweights promote power and stability.
11. Balance Customization
Lead tape in the handle makes the racket more head light. Adding weight to the head makes it more head heavy.
12. String Savers
Placing string savers at the bottom of the frame helps reduce notching and premature string breakage.
13. Parallel Drilling
Drilling extra holes above existing grommet holes provides more string movement for extra power and spin.
14. Match Playstyle Tendencies
Tweak weight, balance, swingweight and grip size to perfectly match your strengths, preferences and stroke tendencies.
15. Experiment!
Don’t be afraid to try different customizations until you maximize performance and “feel” of the racquet.
Taking the time to customize the A550 11 to your physique, technique, and priorities as a player can optimize results. Don’t just use the racket as is. Tailor it to your game!
Unleash Your Aggressive Baselining Game with the A550
The Wilson A550 11 inch is a heavy hitter’s dream. With its head-heavy balance, open string pattern and oversized head, this racquet allows aggressive baseliners to take huge cuts and hit bombs from the backcourt.
Let’s explore 15 tips to maximize your offensive baselining capabilities with the Wilson A550 11 inch:
1. Inside-Out Forehands
The A550’s forgiveness and stability make inside-out forehands a potent weapon. Unload on them!
2. Take Big Swings
Don’t hold back! Use long, fast swing patterns to generate maximum racket head speed and ball impact velocity.
3. Hug the Baseline
Holding a position inside the baseline allows more opportunities to attack short balls.
4. Forward Stance
A forward, open stance aligns your torso aggressively to rip shots with leverage and rotation.
5. Penetrate Through the Court
Imagine driving every shot deep through the court, never stopping your swing before contact.
6. Jump on Weak Second Serves
Punish any mid-court second serves by stepping in and nailing forceful returns.
7. Spinny Strings for Control
Multi-filament strings provide needed control when taking big cuts by generating heavy topspin.
8. Shoulder Strength
Having muscular shoulders prevents fatigue when swinging hard all match long.
9. Explosive Footwork
Use dynamic footwork and split steps to explode into every shot.
10. Wind Up the Backswing
Use an elongated backswing to build more pace into groundstrokes.
11. Wait For Opponent Mistakes
If they get defensive, don’t go for too much. Wait for errors by keeping balls deep.
12. Channel Your Aggression
Use any emotions you feel constructively to fuel your intention to hit through the ball fiercely.
13. Follow Through Fully
Carry your follow through high and extended to groove full finishes.
14. Recovery Time
The day after hard hitting sessions, take time off or train lightly to help muscles recover.
15. Play Fearlessly!
Go for your shots confidently and don’t worry about misses. Enjoy ripping the ball!
The A550 11 inch allows offensive baseliners to play their game to the fullest. Swing for the fences and use the inherent forgiveness to keep errors at bay. Hit bravely and watch your winners pile up!
Useful Tips for Adding More Topspin to Your Groundstrokes
The Wilson A550 11 inch comes equipped for heavy topspin with its open 16×19 string pattern. But you still need to supply the technique. Here are 15 tips to spin those groundies with vicious rotation:
1. Low-to-High Swing Path
Swing upward through contact, brushing from low to high to impart maximum topspin.
2. Lead with the Edge
Imagine making contact with the edge of the racquet first to create angle of attack for spin.
3. Pronate Through the Shot
Pronating your forearm adds brushing action as you make contact with the ball.
4. Follow Through High
Finish with the racquet high above the opposite shoulder to generate full topspin.
5. Close Stance on Forehands
Using a semi-closed stance on forehands increases your potential for upward brushing.
6. String Selection
Try co-polyester or multi-filament strings. The textured surface bites the ball for extra spin.
7. Racquet Lag
Delay your wrist slightly to “lag” the racquet behind your stroke. Snapping through contact accentuates spin.
8. Western Grips
The extreme Western forehand grip promotes a steep vertical swing plane for spinning shots.
9. Shoulder Tilt
Tilt your shoulder back slightly on the backswing. Uncoiling adds racquet lag for spin.
10. Windshield Wiper Finish
Whip the racquet across your body on the finish like a windshield wiper for heavy topspin.
11. Step Into the Shot
Use momentum by stepping into the shot to increase racquet head speed for spin.
12. Go Crosscourt
Aim crosscourt on shots – the angle helps impart additional topspin.
13. Low Ball Toss
Toss slightly behind you on serve and brush up the back aggressively for spinny kicks.
14. Follow Through Over Shoulder
Extend the follow through high over your shoulder, even on backhands, to groove full topspin.
15. Have Fun!
Don’t get frustrated. Just use these tips incrementally and enjoy the heavy topspin you can now create.
The open string pattern of the A550 11 inch is thirsty for RPMs. With some adjustments to your strokes and technique, you can put monstrous topspin on the ball to control your aggressive shots.
Maximizing Control When Volleying with the A550
The Wilson A550 11 inch provides nice stability up at net for solid volleys. But dialing in optimal control takes the right adjustments and technique. Here are 15 tips for complete command on volleys with the A550 11 inch:
1. Firm Grip Pressure
Avoid choking up too tight. But maintain a firm grip to keep the racquet stable on impact.
2. Forward Stance
Standing with weight placed slightly forward preps quicker reactions and control at net.
3. Compact Backswing
Use a short backswing and punch through the ball to direct volleys with precision.
4. Punch Volleys
Think about punching volleys deep with control versus swinging out or guiding gently.
5. Responsive Split Step
Time your split step precisely to land balanced and ready to move fluidly.
6. Racquet Face Awareness
Keep your eye glued to the point of contact and sense the angled racquet face position.
7. Shoulder Turn
Pivot your shoulders side-to-side to align your body behind volleys for stability.
8. Low-to-High Contact
Meet the ball out in front and brush up slightly for control and depth.
9. Light Strings
Lower string tension in the 48-52 lb range enhances feel and control for touch volleys.
10. Slow Things Down
Relax, take your time and don’t rush. Precision arrives from fluid technique.
11. Step Into Volleys
Don’t be stagnant – use small adjustment steps to fill gaps and complement your shots.
12. Follow Through
Always finish your stroke fully, with the racquet head pointing towards your target.
13. Shoulder Over Knee
bending forward slightly with shoulder over knee improves stability and vision at net.
14. Volley Direction Changes
Practice redirecting volleys crosscourt and down-the-line randomly to improve racquet control.
15. Have Fun!
Don’t overthink – just get your technique grooved and enjoy your newfound volley precision.
With some adjustments and practice, the A550 11 inch will transform you into a volley machine. Use proper footwork, punch technique and purposeful shot placement to master control up at net.
Strategies to Improve Serve Consistency with This Racket
The Wilson A550 11 inch provides nice pop on serve, but keeping consistency requires focus. Let’s explore 15 tips for nailing reliable serves time after time with the A550 11 inch:
1. Toss Consistently
Toss the ball from the same spot each serve, with the same trajectory and speed, to ingrain repeatable mechanics.
2. Closed Stance
A closed stance aligns your body uniformly on each serve for stability and reliability.
3. Rhythm
Cultivate the same relaxed, fluid rhythm on every serve to build dependable timing.
4. Still Head
Avoid excessive head movement during the serve motion to prevent misdirecting serves off-course.
5. Compact Backswing
Keep a compact, simple backswing for precision. Overcocking the racquet introduces inconsistencies.
6. Toss Slightly Forward
Tossing slightly inside the baseline provides room to extend fully on each serve attempt.
7. Racquet Acceleration
Imagine accelerating the racquet head smoothly through the point of contact on every serve.
8. Balanced Finish
Hold your finish position with stability and balance to groove repeatable mechanics.
9. Relaxed Grip
Avoid squeezing the grip tightly. This causes tension that disrupts fluidity.
10. Deep Breaths
Take a deep breath before each serve to calm nerves and relax muscles for consistency.
11. Mental Cues
Use the same mental cues (toss high, turn shoulder, extend on contact etc.) to ingrain patterns.
12. Pre-Serve Ritual
Having the same relaxed pre-serve ritual prevents rushing and facilitates consistency.
13. Toss Spot Shadowing
Serve without the ball, just shadowing your toss location, to rehearse your exact toss placement.
14. Consistent Stance Alignment
Align your feet in the same spot along the baseline each serve.
15. Repetition
Practice serves frequently to groove your optimal technical rhythm and timing.
With some tweaks to your technique and mental approach, the A550 11 inch will turn you into a serving machine. Ingrain repeatable mechanics until consistency becomes automatic!
Ways to Make the A550 Work for Your One-Handed Backhand
The Wilson A550 11 inch can be an excellent racquet for aggressive one-handed backhands. Let’s explore 15 tips to get the most out of your single-hander with this stick:
1. Low-to-High Swing
Use an upward swing path to generate heavy topspin for control of your powerful backhand shots.
2. Wind Up Backswing
Take the racquet back early and use an elongated backswing to prepare for power generation.
3. Delay Wrist
Allow your wrist to delay slightly on the backswing to create racquet lag for added pop on contact.
4. Step Into Backhands
Don’t be stationary. Use momentum by stepping aggressively into backhand groundstrokes.
5. Penetrate Through Ball
Visualize driving your backhand shots deep in the court, never stopping your swing mid-motion.
6. Lead With Edge
Imagine contacting the ball with the bottom edge of your racquet to create a vertical brushing action.
7. Low-to-High Follow Through
Finish with the racquet high above your opposite shoulder to accentuate topspin and control.
8. Take Ball Early
The stability of the A550 allows you to confidently take backhands early and on the rise.
9. Slice Backhand
The plow through power on groundstrokes also translates nicely to underspin slice backhands.
10.diagonal Follow Through
Finish backhands diagonally across your body instead of straight back for extra power and spin.
11. Control Grip Firmly
Grip the small handle firmly to prevent twisting on off-center backhand strikes.
12. Split Step
Use precise split steps to explode powerfully into backhands, especially on returns.
13. Hug Baseline
Holding a position inside the baseline will allow you to attack backhands aggressively.
14. Lower String Tension
Try dropping tension into the low 50s for improved comfort and feel on backhands.
15. Unleash Your Weapon!
Have fun punishing balls with your nasty one-handed topspin backhand.
The Wilson A550 11 inch can help single-handers unleash deadly backhands. Master spin, positioning and footwork to maximize results from the baseline.
Getting the Most Power from the A550 on Your Two-Handed Backhand
The Wilson A550 11 inch supplies ample pace for two-handed backhands. Here are 15 tips to crank up maximum power on your double-hander with this stick:
1. Low-to-High Swing
Use an upward swing path to plow through the ball efficiently with the A550’s head-heavy balance.
2. Step Into It
Use momentum by stepping aggressively into backhands to transfer body weight into the shot.
3. Delay Wrist Release
Delay unhinging your wrist slightly to increase racquet lag for an extra boost in racket head speed.
4. Elbows Forward
Keeping elbows forward on the takeaway maintains control and leverages shoulder rotation power.
5. Rotate Shoulders
Use a strong shoulder turn and uncoiling action to summon maximum power from the shot.
6. Firm Grip
Hold the grip tightly to keep the racquet stable on off-center backhand contacts.
7. Full Racquet Takeback
Allow a full sweeping takeback on backhands to generate momentum and coil your body.
8. Follow Through Over Shoulder
Finish backhands high over the opposite shoulder to fully extend your power through the ball.
9. Hit Through Contact Zone
Imagine driving all the way through the point of contact rather than shortening the follow through.
10. Forward Court Position
Hugging the baseline allows you to attack returns and short balls with aggression.
11. Bodyweight Transfer
Push off the back foot while shifting weight forward for maximum power transfer.
12. Racquet Head Awareness
Keep your eyes glued to the strings throughout the stroke to time contact perfectly.
13. Penetrate the Shot
Visualize each backhand penetrating deep through the court for maximum depth and control.
14. Shoulder Strength
Strong shoulders, upper back and arms generate the force needed for powerful backhand drives.
15. Have Fun!
Relax and enjoy nailing some screamers crosscourt and down the line.
The A550 11 provides a stable, powerful platform for drilling two-fisted backhands through the court. Dial in your form, footwork and timing for awesome backhand results!
Making Quick Adjustments at Net with The A550’s Responsive Feel
The Wilson A550 11 inch provides nice stability up at net along with ample responsiveness. Here are 15 tips to help you make those quick reflex adjustments for winning volleys:
1. Soft Hands
Hold the racquet gently to enhance feel and touch for responsive shot placement and control.
2. Racquet Face Awareness
Keep your eyes focused on the strings as you make contact to instantly adjust angles.
3. Forward Ready Position
Standing forward at net prepares you to react quickly in all directions.
4. Punch Volleys
Using compact, punching stroke patterns allows for nimble yet controlled shot placement.
5. Light Strings
Lower string tension in the 48-52 lb range improves feel for touch shots and reflex volleys.
6. Active Feet
Keep feet active and ready to shuffled side-to-side, complementing your volley placement and redirects.
7. Racquet Speed
Let the racquet do the work. Moving it quickly with your wrist and arm enhances responsiveness.
8. Racquet Angle Awareness
Use your wrist to make tiny adjustments in racquet face angle for precision control.
9. Relaxed Stroke
Avoid muscling the ball. Allow fluid, relaxed movements for quicker reactions.
10. Exaggerated Split Step
Bend knees deeply on your split step to explode powerfully in all directions.
11. Follow Through Completely
Always finish your stroke fully for optimal directional control.
12. Light Grip Pressure
Let the racquet respond freely in your hands by avoiding a tight, restrictive grip.
13. Move on Your Toes
Stay on the balls of your feet, ready to spring left, right, forward or back.
14. Short Backswings
Compact backswings require less time to redirect shots effectively.
15. Have Fun!
Don’t overthink – allow your reflexes and athleticism to takeover up at net.
The A550 11 inch supplies a nice blend of stability and quickness at net. Master the techniques to truly maximize your reflexive shot-making abilities!