Handle for a sports racket, in particular a tennis racket

Abstract

The invention relates to an elongated handle (2) for a sports racket, in particular a tennis racket, comprising a first handle end (2a) to be provided in the direction of the racket head of the sports racket, a second handle end (2b) which lies opposite the first handle end (2a), and a handle section (3) which is arranged between the first and second handle end (2a and 2b) and which has a first handle region (3a) and a second handle region (3b). The first handle region (3a) has a first outer contour course (4) along the central longitudinal axis (L) of the handle (2), in particular an outer contour course which is substantially identically shaped over the entire longitudinal extension thereof, and the outer contour course (5) of the second handle region (3b), said outer contour course having a depression (6) in the handle cross-section, extends along the central longitudinal axis (L) of the handle (2) from the beginning (6d) of the depression (6) to the second handle end (2b). Above all, the use of the handle (2) is to be improved. This is achieved in that the depression (6) has a specifically shaped base (6a).

Description

[0001] Handle for a sports racket, especially a tennis racket

[0002] Technical area

[0003] The invention relates to an elongated handle for a sports racket, in particular a tennis racket, with a first handle end for providing the direction of the racket head of the sports racket and with a second handle end opposite the first handle end, with a gripping section arranged between the first and second handle ends, which gripping section has a first gripping area and a second gripping area, which first gripping area has a first outer contour profile along the central longitudinal axis of the handle, in particular one which is shaped essentially identically over its entire longitudinal extent, and which second gripping area extends along the central longitudinal axis of the handle with a second outer contour profile having a depression in the handle cross-section from the beginning of the depression to the second handle end.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] Elongated handles that are suitable for at least partially accommodating a hand holding them are known from the prior art. For example, EP0291576A2 shows a handle with a gripping section located between the ends of the handle, which has specific outer contours along the length of the handle. The aim of this prior art is to relieve the arm muscles of the person holding the handle by adapting to the anatomical and physiological characteristics of the gripping hand - and also to provide orientation regarding the position of the sports equipment. According to EP0291576A2, this is made possible by the gripping area comprising a raised cross-section, which at each of its ends merges into a depression in the handle cross-section - compared to the raised cross-section.One disadvantage of this prior art is that the handle is oval in the area where it is held by the hand, meaning a specific outer contour extends across the entire or almost entire gripping area. This outer contour is provided on this handle in addition to specific main and secondary surfaces, which further increases the complexity of the design.

[0006] Furthermore, a handle for a sports racket is known from DE10022298A1, which has the task of being securely gripped. To this end, the handle has an outer contour for at least partially resting a hand holding the handle – for example, a rest for the ring finger and little finger or a palm rest. However, this design is also comparatively complex in its construction. Furthermore, the handle of DE10022298A1 is specifically designed for holding a sports racket with a forehand or one-handed backhand grip. The disadvantage is that it explicitly specifies individual grip positions for a racket, to which the handle limits the grip. It is therefore unsuitable for holding the handle in positions other than these – due to its outer contour, it can then no longer be securely gripped.Furthermore, changing the hand to different positions on the handle when rotating around its longitudinal axis is also difficult.

[0007] Description of the invention

[0008] Based on the cited prior art, the invention therefore sets itself the task of improving a handle with an outer contour for at least partially accommodating a hand holding the handle—in a structurally simple manner—such that it can be held securely and with high grip strength, even with minimal effort. This should also ensure particularly good maneuverability. Furthermore, there should be no restrictions regarding the positioning of the hand on the handle—and no disruptive outer contour when shifting from one gripping position to another.

[0009] The invention solves the problem by means of the features of claim 1.

[0010] The effects and advantages mentioned are described specifically for a person holding the handle, for whom the size of the handle is approximately as follows: The size of the handle is selected such that, when gripping the handle around its longitudinal axis, there is a distance of approximately 1 to 3 millimeters between the fingertips and the ball of the hand. However, this should not be interpreted to mean that the described advantages cannot also be achieved by people holding the racket handle who do not maintain this distance or only approximately so.

[0011] Furthermore, it is noted that the circumference of the handle is to be understood as the circumference which the handle according to the invention has without grip tape, tape or the like.

[0012] According to the invention, the first gripping area begins at a maximum distance of 5 cm from the beginning of the recess along the central longitudinal axis of the handle. In addition, the recess has a base with a rounded and / or angular cross-sectional contour for at least partially supporting the little finger of a hand holding the handle. The base of the recess is designed to at least partially support the little finger of a hand holding the handle. The base has a rounded and / or angular cross-sectional contour - a rounded cross-sectional contour can offer advantages with regard to simple manufacture of the handle, especially if this cross-sectional contour is circular and runs around the central longitudinal axis of the handle. A angular cross-sectional contour can, for example, reduce the risk of the handle twisting in a holding hand and can also improve the hold of a grip tape wrapped around the handle.

[0013] The base of the recess runs radially continuously around the longitudinal axis of the handle with a circumference that is at least 20% smaller than the first outer contour. This improves the handling friendliness of the handle because the handle has the base of the recess at least in sections - preferably entirely - in every rotational position about its central longitudinal axis. The features of the handle according to the invention and all the advantages mentioned in relation to these features can therefore apply or be achieved in significantly more positions of a hand holding it about its central longitudinal axis - and in forehand, backhand grip, etc. of a sports racket connected to the handle or having the handle. This is particularly the case when the base of the recess runs concentrically around the central longitudinal axis of the handle with a rounded and / or polygonal cross-sectional contour.In this case, the reduction in the circumference of the base compared to the first contour is present in the same way in all rotational positions when the handle rotates about its longitudinal axis. With regard to the stability of the handle, for example, it can be advantageous if the reduction in comparison to the first outer contour is a maximum of 40%. The base of the recess according to the invention makes it possible, among other things, to simply specify a specific and easy-to-find and easy-to-find position of the hand on the handle. Furthermore, the base of the recess can also be used to provide an area for a hand holding the handle, for example, for resting one or more fingers with a smaller gripping circumference than other fingers of the hand - due to anatomical conditions.Since the first gripping area begins at a maximum distance of 5 cm along the central longitudinal axis of the handle from the beginning of the recess, this first gripping area is therefore arranged away from the recess and from its beginning towards the first end of the handle. However, it can be provided that the first gripping area adjoins the beginning of the recess. If the little finger of a hand holding the handle is placed on the bottom of the recess, the first gripping area can be provided for other parts of this hand - namely for those with a larger gripping circumference than the little finger. This leads to muscular relief of the hand, since the handle according to the invention is easier to hold and the pressure is more evenly distributed across the palm and fingers than is known from the prior art. This therefore has the advantage that the handle can be held and guided securely and comfortably with significantly less effort.The aforementioned effects also affect the wrist of the hand holding the handle – this hand is also significantly looser when holding the handle according to the invention, which increases freedom of movement. It can be observed that this advantageous gripping of the handle occurs intuitively for the person holding it. The advantages also affect the handling of a sports racket that is connected to this handle or that has this handle – which, among other things, improves the maneuverability of the sports racket.An improvement in the gripping ability of the handle is also achievable by increasing the contact area between the handle and the hand holding it – namely, since the sides of a single finger resting on the bottom of the recess – or the end sides of several fingers resting partially or entirely on the recess – can rest on a side area running from the bottom of the recess towards its beginning and / or a side area extending from the bottom of the recess towards the second end of the handle and increasing in circumference along the outer contour. Furthermore, this makes it possible to prevent or limit longitudinal slippage of the handle. These features further facilitate gripping the handle, requiring less effort – which also improves hand mobility when handling a sports racket connected to the handle.

[0014] In addition to the above-mentioned advantages resulting from the inventive circumferential reduction of the outer contour of the base of the recess, such a reduction of 25 to 35% can be particularly advantageous - for example, to accommodate particularly good coordination with the reduced gripping circumference of the little finger of a hand holding the handle - especially in comparison to the middle finger, which rests on the first gripping area. This allows the handle to be held with pressure that is particularly evenly distributed across the fingers. Furthermore, the contact area between the handle and the hand holding it can be increased due to the described side regions extending away from the base of the recess - thereby further facilitating its holding and, for example, reducing the risk of the hand slipping along the length of the handle.The handling and guidance of the handle can thus be further improved – without compromising the mechanical stability of the handle. Furthermore, such a reduction of 25 to 35% may result in a relatively short adjustment period for the user to the feel of the handle according to the invention compared to handles with an essentially identical outer contour along their entire length.

[0015] To achieve and further optimize the advantages already mentioned above, a reduction of 28 to 32% may be preferred with regard to the inventive reduction in the circumference of the base of the recess – especially since this provides an even more specific adaptation to the smaller gripping circumference of the little finger of a hand holding the handle resting on the base – especially compared to the middle finger, which rests on the first gripping area – but this applies to a large number of people. Thus, this reduction may prove particularly advantageous for achieving a grip on the handle with pressure evenly distributed across the fingers.With regard to the habituation to the haptics of the handle according to the invention in comparison to handles with an essentially identical circumference of the outer contour over their entire longitudinal extent, the reduction of the circumference of the base by 28 to 32% can also be distinguished.

[0016] The combination of these non-optional inventive features according to claim 1 thus enables, among other things, an improved and thus particularly secure grip of the handle in a structurally simple manner – namely, or largely independent of, the rotational position of the handle in the hand. Furthermore, this handle can be held with a relatively loose wrist – which can also be done intuitively. This, in turn, has a positive effect on the handling and guidance of the handle and of a sports racket connected to it or having it. Furthermore, it must be ensured that, in addition to increased ease of handling, the mechanical stability of the handle is also maintained – especially when using the handle when it is connected to a sports racket, such as a tennis racket, or when a sports racket has this handle.

[0017] It can also be provided that the base of the recess extends over a length of 10 to 30%, in particular 13 to 25%, preferably 17 to 20% of the circumference of the first outer contour in the longitudinal extension of the handle. This extension of the base of the recess can be used to determine which finger(s) of a hand holding the handle can be placed entirely or partially on the base of the recess based on their finger width. By reducing the length of the base of the recess in the longitudinal extension of the handle, it is possible to adjust it so that only a single finger or only part of it can be placed on the base of the recess.

[0018] It may be preferred that the little finger of a hand holding the handle can be placed across its entire width on the bottom of the recess. To ensure this for the largest possible group of people, the aforementioned extension of the bottom can be between 13 and 25%. In particular, it is also possible in this way that a finger of the hand holding the handle, which adjoins the finger resting on the bottom of the recess, can optionally only be positioned partially on the bottom of the recess, preferably with part of its lateral extension or with a region of its fingertip. If the bottom for placing the little finger of a hand holding the handle is to be more specifically restricted, so that this is not possible or is more restricted for parts of the ring finger, for example, an extension of the bottom of 17 to 20% of the circumference of the first outer contour may be preferred.This allows for more precise adjustment to the width of the little finger, allowing the position of the other fingers on the handle to be comparatively variable. Furthermore, based on the more specific positioning of the little finger, it is possible to determine the distance between the hand holding the handle—especially from the second end of the handle—in this way. On the one hand, this can make it more difficult to leave the position on the floor along the length of the handle, i.e., to slip along its longitudinal axis. On the other hand, this also makes it easier to find and / or rediscover the position on the handle intended for the little finger.

[0019] By combining this with the feature that the bottom of the recess runs radially continuously around the longitudinal axis of the handle with the circumference according to the invention, it can be ensured that a part of the finger of a hand holding the handle placed on the handle can be placed on the bottom of the recess over its entire longitudinal extent.

[0020] If the recess has a side area, which side area

[0021] - extends from the bottom of the recess towards the first handle end in cross-section, in particular continuously, increasing to at least 85% of the circumference of the first outer contour, and

[0022] - the central longitudinal axis of the handle runs around and

[0023] - extends by 8 to 20% of the circumference of the first outer contour in the longitudinal extension of the handle, can - in particular if the above-mentioned selection of the size of the handle applies

[0024] - a side area is provided on which only part of the finger in contact with the handle can be placed on the side area next to the finger resting on the bottom of the recess or next to the fingers of a hand holding the handle resting on the bottom of the recess - and only the end joint and at most parts of the middle joint.

[0025] If the side area runs around the central longitudinal axis of the handle with a rounded cross-sectional contour, this can offer advantages in terms of easier manufacture of the handle - especially if this cross-sectional contour is circular. If the side area runs around the central longitudinal axis of the handle with a square cross-sectional contour, for example, the risk of the handle twisting in the hand holding it can be reduced and the hold of a grip tape wrapped around the handle can be improved. If the side area runs radially continuously around the longitudinal axis of the handle, the handling friendliness of the handle can be improved because the handle has the side area at least in sections in every rotational position around its central longitudinal axis. The inventive features of the side area of ​​the handle and the advantages mentioned in relation to this can therefore be achieved with significantly more positions of a holding hand - and with forehand, backhand grips, etc.of a sports racket connected to or having a handle – apply or can be achieved – especially if the side area extends concentrically around the central longitudinal axis of the handle with a rounded and / or angular cross-sectional contour. In this case, the side area is present in the same way in all rotational positions with a circumferential increase away from the bottom of the recess when the handle rotates about its longitudinal axis.

[0026] The reduction in the circumference to be grasped, based on the lateral area towards the bottom of the recess, for a finger partially resting on the lateral area can already be sufficient to accommodate the smaller gripping circumference—especially of the ring finger compared to the middle finger—so that the handle can be held firmly and easily with force evenly distributed across the fingers. This is especially true for those for whom the above-described guideline for selecting the circumference of the first gripping area applies. This allows, among other things, the wrist of the hand holding the handle to intuitively remain comparatively looser.Due to the increased mobility of the wrist, twisting of the handle in the holding hand—which is especially the case when swinging or hitting a ball with a sports racket connected to or featuring the handle—can be advantageously compensated for by moving the wrist. The energy can thus be absorbed by rotating the wrist. Such twisting of the handle in the holding hand therefore does not have to be prevented, or only prevented, by an even tighter grip and thus an additionally stiffened posture of the hand and / or wrist—which, in turn, impairs the control of a sports racket and the mobility when hitting a ball, or at least the follow-through after hitting.This positive effect can also be demonstrated by the fact that a grip band applied around the handle according to the invention advantageously exhibits significantly less wear due to friction on the hand holding it. In addition, the risk of the hand holding the handle slipping along, and especially around, its longitudinal axis can be reduced by the side region according to the invention. This is because the part of the finger resting on the side region with its circumference reduced toward the ground—specifically, the distal phalanx of a finger—can be guided toward the finger resting on the floor of the recess.Thus, according to the invention, a special gripping of the handle results, which not only provides a substantially radial grip as known from the prior art, but also, using a finger - preferably the ring finger with the little finger resting on the ground - a grip further diagonally offset from the radial of the handle. Thus, when holding the handle, a special pressure can be exerted by the finger partially resting on the side area, the direction of which is offset from the radial of the handle and, in the case of the ring finger, on the side area converges with the direction of the pressure exerted by the middle and index fingers and away from that of the little finger. In this way, a type of clamping of the handle can be achieved which is not known from the prior art.

[0027] In this context, the non-optional features of the characterising part of claim 1 can play a role in particular - namely that the base of the recess runs radially continuously around the central longitudinal axis of the handle with a circumference that is smaller than the first outer contour. In this regard, a reduced circumference of 25 to 35%, in particular 28 to 32%, can preferably be distinguished in order to specifically align the direction of pressure by the finger part placed on the lateral region and to hold the racket handle securely and to guide it in a way that is easy to handle with a loose wrist. This extent of reduced circumference can also be helpful for palpating and thus finding / re-finding the position of the distal finger joint. This advantageous holding can also be contributed to by the fact that the finger directed or guided in the direction of the - preferably little - finger.rotated distal finger joint on the lateral area when holding the handle intuitively exerts greater pressure on the handle without causing cramping of the fingers or wrist.

[0028] The side region according to claim 2 can result in even further advantages in combination with the base of the recess described in claim 1, which base radially extends continuously around the central longitudinal axis of the handle with the smaller circumference according to the invention. By means of the side region, the extent of which is comparatively short in the longitudinal extent of the handle, but extends away from the base of the recess with its aforementioned relatively markedly reduced circumference, a distal finger joint - preferably the ring finger - can be used in a targeted manner and in isolation from the other fingers of the hand holding the handle to exert increased holding pressure on the first side region of the handle. It has been shown that this can even be done intuitively, i.e. without any particular adjustment after using conventional handles.If the ring finger partially rests on the side area, the index and middle fingers can be significantly relieved when holding and guiding the handle. The pressure exerted by these two fingers on the handle can thus be reduced, which significantly improves the control and maneuverability of the handle and any sports racket connected to it – also due to the wrist being held particularly loosely. According to the invention, it may even be sufficient for these two fingers to only partially rest on the handle to hold the handle or the sports racket connected to it.

[0029] A significant advantage may be that the combination of the base of the recess with a reduced circumference according to claim 1 for at least partially supporting the little finger of a hand holding the handle and the side region according to claim 2 for supporting only a part, in particular the end joint or at most parts of the middle joint, of the adjacent finger - preferably the ring finger - also makes it easier to find or rediscover the position of the hand on the handle along its longitudinal axis, as provided by the recess and side region. This is possible because the side region can be palpated much more easily with the fingertip or the distal finger joint - and after palpation, the correct positioning of the ring finger can be found immediately by placing the distal finger joint on this side region.

[0030] Furthermore, the way the finger is guided along the side area, at least partially toward the bottom of the recess, allows for improved holding and maneuvering of the handle. This is because, among other things, the middle and / or index finger of the hand holding the handle can be placed on the handle in a relatively variable manner. The side area also allows for increased freedom of movement for the finger placed on it. For example, the side area can allow the ring finger to be guided toward the little finger, resulting in the middle finger being spread away from the ring finger. This also allows for a relatively variable selection of the angle at which the index finger, in particular, can be placed on the handle, away from the middle finger and offset from the radial direction of the handle.This can make it possible to maneuver the handle and a sports racket connected to it particularly advantageously. Enlarging the side area to 95 to 100% of the circumference of the first outer contour line can, among other things, simplify the manufacture of the handle – for example, because the side area ends with the same or almost the same diameter as the first outer contour line. This is particularly true if the end of the side area merges into the first outer contour line – especially if the end of the side area toward the first end of the handle represents the beginning of the recess.

[0031] If the side region extends by 10 to 16% of the circumference of the first outer contour in the longitudinal direction of the handle, a more targeted adjustment to the support of the part or a large part of the distal finger joint resting on the handle – especially the ring finger with the little finger resting on the base of the recess – is achievable. In this case, apart from the distal finger joint, at most a part of the middle finger joint would have to be placed on the side region. For further adjustment to a hand holding the handle, the side region can be provided to extend by 11 to 13% of the circumference of the first outer contour in the longitudinal direction of the handle – this value has proven particularly ideal when the circumference of the base of the recess is reduced by 28 to 32% compared to that of the first outer contour according to claim 1.

[0032] A particularly simple production can be achieved if the side area extends from the base in cross-section towards the first end of the handle, increasing continuously - especially if the side area also directly adjoins the base of the recess.

[0033] The non-optional features of the second outer contour profile according to the characterizing part of claim 1 also have the aforementioned significance with respect to the side region of the present invention. Thus, the advantages mentioned for these features can be significant together with the effects of the side region. The extent of the extension of the side region of the handle can be adjusted to the extent of the reduction in the circumference by which the base of the recess radially surrounds the central longitudinal axis of the handle in the direction of the first handle end, compared to the beginning of the side region.In general, it can prove advantageous if the base of the recess has a 28 to 32% reduction in circumference compared to the first outer contour, and the lateral area expands from the base of the recess toward the first handle end to 90 to 100% of the diameter of the first outer contour, as well as extending by 11 to 13% of the circumference of the first outer contour in the longitudinal direction of the handle. In this way, a particularly good adaptation of the handle to the hand of a person for whom the selection of the handle size according to the aforementioned criteria applies can be achieved – among other things, with regard to a relaxed grip of the hand and wrist and the advantages of resting the distal phalanx on the lateral area.

[0034] Furthermore, the advantages and their effects mentioned for the side region can be further enhanced if the base of the recess extends over a length of 10 to 30% of the circumference of the first outer contour along the longitudinal extent of the handle. This can, for example, ensure that the length of the base along the longitudinal extent of the handle can be more precisely tailored to the width of a little finger resting on the base. This improves, among other things, the grip of the handle and reduces the risk of slipping - especially if the end of the base of the recess towards the second end of the handle forms a boundary for the little finger, especially if this boundary is formed by a second side region with a wider cross-section.The aforementioned easier retrieval using the side area towards the first end of the handle and the bottom of the recess for placing the little finger can also be made easier in this way. There is therefore space between the side areas for the little finger to be placed on the bottom of the recess - but only to a limited extent for parts of the ring finger. This ensures that when the little finger is placed on the floor, at most part of the distal phalanx of the ring finger can still fit on the bottom of the recess. The distal phalanx of the ring finger or a large part of the distal phalanx of the ring finger must, however, be placed on the side area - but no longer exclusively or predominantly the middle phalanx.This is particularly achievable if the bottom of the recess extends over a length of 13 to 25% of the circumference of the first outer contour in the longitudinal extension of the handle - and can be further secured if the said length of the bottom of the recess is 17 to 20%.In the event of a reduction of the said length of the base of the depression in the direction of or to 10% of the circumference of the first outer contour, the following may be necessary to achieve the desired resting of the distal phalanx of the ring finger on the side area: By means of a correspondingly flat course in the cross-sectional enlargement of the second side area running away from the base of the depression in the direction of the second end of the handle, there should be sufficient space for the little finger to rest on the base of the depression and on the second side area, without hindering the resting of the distal phalanx of the ring finger on the side area in the direction of the first end of the handle.

[0035] The manufacture of the handle is simplified if the side region tapers towards the first end of the handle into the beginning of the recess. Since in this case there is no change in the outer contour between the first outer contour and the beginning of / connection to the recess in the handle cross-section - e.g. due to an enlargement of the cross-section - any necessary adjustment to the handle with the second outer contour according to the invention is significantly reduced, provided the first outer contour corresponds to a conventional handle. In this case, a polygonal outer contour of the first gripping area, known from the prior art and familiar to players, could be retained up to the beginning of the recess with its side region.

[0036] If the bottom of the recess merges into a second lateral region with a diameter that widens towards the second end of the handle, a simple limitation of the bottom of the recess can be achieved, which, among other things, prevents the risk of the hand slipping along the longitudinal axis of the handle. In this way, it is also possible to determine which finger and / or which parts of the fingers can be placed on the bottom by specifically limiting the bottom of the recess. When holding the handle according to the invention, this can preferably be provided for the entire part of the little finger that is in contact with the handle, but not or only to a small extent for the ring finger. Furthermore, this feature can also be beneficial with regard to the aforementioned finding / refinding of the intended positioning on the handle.

[0037] The improved handling of the handle and of the sports racket connected to it or having it, as well as its ease of manufacture, can be achieved if the base of the recess and / or at least one side region of the recess runs or runs radially around the central longitudinal axis of the handle. This can be achieved in particular if this running is essentially rotationally symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis of the handle. With regard to ease of handling, it must be ensured that the handle has the outer contour of the recess and / or side region or of the entire second gripping region identical in every rotational position about its longitudinal axis. When the handle is rotated in the hand, the outer contour of the recess and / or base of the recess and / or side region and / or entire second contour always has the same outer contour - even at the same distance from the handle ends.It must therefore be ensured that in parts of or all of the second gripping area, no changes in the gripping sensation are caused when the handle is rotated about its longitudinal axis and / or no resistance is caused by this rotation while holding. This can be particularly important because the invention allows particularly variable positioning of the fingers on the handle - among other things due to the described lateral area towards the first end of the handle. These advantages also apply in particular if this rotation takes place with a rounded outer contour, preferably circular and concentric, around the central longitudinal axis of the handle. However, a polygonal outer contour is also conceivable, for example in order to improve the grip of the hand or a grip band around the handle.

[0038] If the recess in the handle cross-section is essentially edge-free and step-free, the manufacture of the handle can be simplified and also cost-effective. This advantage can be increased if this feature applies to the entire second gripping area up to the second end of the handle. Furthermore, the haptics for a hand holding this handle - regardless of its positioning on the handle - can also be improved. If the base of the recess extends to a distance of 15 to 25% of the circumference of the first outer contour from the second end of the handle in the longitudinal extent of the handle, it can be guaranteed that the base of the recess is specifically designed to at least partially accommodate the little finger of a hand holding this handle - and that there is a sufficient distance from the second end of the handle to guide a club connected to the handle or having the handle, ensuring a secure hold.In particular, an extension of up to a distance of 18 to 20% can prove advantageous in this regard - for example, with regard to the suitability of the handle for an average adult hand size.

[0039] The advantages of the invention—especially easier gripping and improved maneuverability of the handle—can be achieved even if the second outer contour has a single recess, which in particular forms a single base. This allows for simple and cost-effective production, while also allowing for relatively less effort in adapting the handle to the holding hand or to typical hand sizes.This may be especially true if the single base of the single recess is intended for the placement of the entire part of the little finger of a hand holding the handle that is in contact with the handle when holding it - especially since the ring finger can, for example, be partially placed on the side area of ​​the recess to accommodate its smaller gripping width compared to the middle finger and its larger gripping width compared to the little finger. This also makes it possible to ensure structural simplicity and ease of use - since, apart from the base of the recess for the little finger and possibly the side area for part of the ring finger, for example, the positioning of the other fingers of a hand holding the handle is not predetermined by its outer contour.Any impairment or disruptive factors when changing the position of the hand on the handle during its rotation around its longitudinal axis can also be avoided or reduced. If the second outer contour ends towards the second handle end and the first handle end with essentially the same diameter, structural simplicity and a largely uniform diameter on the handle are achieved. This can also contribute to an improvement in the gripping sensation. It is also possible to achieve sufficient contact of the edge of the hand and / or the ball of the little finger of a hand holding the handle, making the handle better and easier to hold.

[0040] If the second outer contour has the same diameter from the second handle end to the beginning of the cross-sectional recess, variable gripping of the handle can also be supported - especially if this feature exists over a length of 5 to 20% of the circumference of the first outer contour along the length of the handle. Shifting the position of the hand around the longitudinal axis of the handle is thus easily possible - as is changing the gripping position with regard to the angle at which the hand is placed against the handle. This can also ensure that the edge of the hand and / or the ball of the little finger of a hand holding the handle can be sufficiently pressed against the grip - making it better and easier to hold.Preferably, 7 to 15% of the circumference of the first outer contour can be provided in the longitudinal extension of the handle in order to ensure a particularly variable holding of the handle - for example, if the handle is held in such a way that its second end rests on the middle of the ball of the little finger or the end of the handle is held even further towards the middle of the palm.

[0041] It is conceivable that the second side region widens towards the second end of the handle with a maximum diameter that is 5 to 20% larger than the first outer contour. This enables improved positioning of the edge of the hand and / or the ball of the little finger of a hand holding the handle, which can contribute to an easier and firmer grip and consequently to increased wrist mobility. It may be sufficient for this to be achieved if the recess widens towards the second end of the handle with a maximum diameter that is 10 to 15% larger than the first outer contour. This feature also makes it possible to hold the handle relatively securely even with the ball of the little finger, or with the side of the ball of the little finger facing the center of the hand, resting on the second end of the handle.This ensures that the handle can be guided in a particularly variable manner by the hand holding it.

[0042] With regard to improved handling, it can be distinguished if the second outer contour ends at the second end of the handle with a cross-section that decreases by 5 to 15%. In this way, a particularly variable grip of the handle can be enabled and supported by a further improved fit on the hand - for example, if the handle is held such that its second end rests on the middle of the ball of the little finger or if the handle is held even further towards the middle of the palm. Even with this type of handle, the inventive features relating to the recess in the handle cross-section and its base can be distinguished - for example, by the advantages being brought to bear by partially accommodating the ring finger in particular.In particular, if this reduction in the cross-section occurs over a length of 5 to 10% of the circumference of the first outer contour in the longitudinal extension of the handle, the second end of the handle can be positioned particularly far towards the side of the ball of the little finger towards the center of the hand - without impairing secure holding.

[0043] To reduce manufacturing costs, the second outer contour, especially from the end of the base of the recess toward the second handle end, can be formed by a handle cap. Such a handle cap can be easily attached by snapping it on and gluing it in place. This also makes it possible to subsequently change the design of the handle by replacing the handle cap.

[0044] If the gripping section consists of a first and a second gripping area, the handle according to the invention is particularly simple in design and can be manufactured cost-effectively.

[0045] The same applies if the base of the recess in the handle cross-section forms the middle part of the recess in the handle cross-section. This also makes it possible to better accommodate anatomical deviations of fingers in terms of their length or shape compared to the average. Furthermore, the side areas of the recess, both toward the first and second ends of the handle, can be used to accommodate a finger resting on the base—for example, for more flexible positioning or for more flexible gripping of the handle itself.

[0046] If the handle is constructed from two interconnectable parts, it can be easily connected to a sports racket, especially a tennis racket. Subsequent connection to a sports racket is also conceivable. Particularly low production costs can be achieved if the handle is constructed from two plastic half-shells.

[0047] The handle according to the invention is particularly suitable for a sports racket, preferably a tennis racket. For this purpose, the handle can be foamed onto the racket, for example; attaching and gluing it is also conceivable.

[0048] For example, in order to ensure low production costs, it can be provided that the sports racket according to the invention is formed in one piece.

[0049] The invention further relates to a band suitable for connecting radially around the longitudinal axis to the outer contour of the first gripping portion of the handle according to the invention. For easy attachment to a handle, the band is designed as an elastic ring band. The band has at least one thickened portion in its band thickness, which, when connected to the handle, forms a radial elevation on the handle. The thickened portion is thus suitable for increasing the contact surface of a hand holding the handle due to the elevation. This increase in the contact surface can be achieved particularly advantageously by the band if it is positioned along the longitudinal extent of the handle such that the thickened portion lies approximately in the region of the middle of the palm of a hand holding the handle - in particular a hand whose little finger is resting on the bottom of the recess of the handle according to the invention.This advantage can also be particularly evident in combination with the second outer contour according to the invention, since the raised area due to the band and thus the increased contact area with other parts of the hand, such as the little finger area, can contribute to further equalizing the force with which the handle is held across the fingers of the hand. Consequently, the wrist can also be further relieved – the handle can therefore be held with a relatively loose wrist, which facilitates the maneuverability of the handle and any sports racket attached to it.

[0050] The band preferably has two such thickened portions, each spaced apart from the other in the longitudinal extension of the band by half the circumference of the first gripping section provided for the band. Thus, after being connected to the first gripping section, the band forms a raised portion on each of the opposite sides. This also enables a variable grip of the handle and of a sports racket, in particular a tennis racket, having the handle or connected to the handle, due to a contour provided by the band on both sides of the handle halves.

[0051] For easy attachment to a handle, the band is designed as an elastic ring band with a comparatively thin band thickness, for example, 0.05 to 0.1 cm. The band's dimensions are determined by the band thickness, band length, and band width. Two thickened portions are simply provided on the ring band at opposite points along the circumference of the ring band, so that a raised portion is formed on each of the two opposite sides of the handle due to the thickened portion. This ring band is made of a rubber material and is cost-effective.

[0052] Specially adapted to the anatomical conditions when holding the handle approximately in the middle of the palm, the thickness of the band in the area of ​​the thickening is 0.1 to 0.45 cm - in the example for the average hand of an adult to 0.2 cm.

[0053] As in the previous paragraph, to match the center of the palm, the thickened portion of the band can be circular when viewed from above, particularly with a diameter of 0.3 to 1.5 cm. A diameter of 0.5 cm may be suitable for the average adult hand. The band according to the invention is particularly effective with a sports racket, particularly a tennis racket, to enlarge the contact area of ​​the hand holding it and thus increase grip strength.

[0054] Especially when the sports racket, in particular a tennis racket, comprises the handle according to one of claims 1 to 17 and the strap according to one of claims 20 to 23 in combination, their advantages can complement each other. For this purpose, the strap on the handle according to the invention for an adult is connected to the handle in the longitudinal direction of the handle such that the center of the thickened portion is positioned 6.5 to 9.5 cm, in particular 7.5 to 8.5 cm, from the second end of the handle.

[0055] This ensures that the aforementioned advantages when holding the handle with the inventive recess in the handle cross-section, as well as the advantages due to the band, are particularly evident. Due to the recess in the handle cross-section, for example, muscular strain on the hand in the area of ​​the little finger is reduced, which makes holding the handle with the fingers more even. In addition, the racket is subsequently held with a relatively loose wrist. The band according to the invention can further contribute to increasing the contact area between hand and handle - and thus also to further relieving strain on the hand in the area of ​​the little finger and wrist by improving grip strength.This can be particularly advantageous if there is a side area for the support of the distal phalanx, especially the ring finger, of a hand holding the handle, as this can compensate for a certain degree of spacing of the palm from the handle. This significantly improves the handling of a sports racket connected to or featuring this handle. Due to a better grip with less effort and less strain on the wrist of the hand holding it, increased maneuverability of the sports racket is achieved.

[0056] Short description of the drawings

[0057] The figures illustrate the subject matter of the invention in more detail using an example embodiment. They show: Fig. 1 a schematic plan view of a handle connected to a partially shown tennis racket, and

[0058] Fig. 2 is a perspective detailed view of the handle according to Fig. 1.

[0059] Fig. 3 is a representation of the handle according to Fig. 1 in a hand holding it.

[0060] Way to implement the invention

[0061] In Fig. 1, an elongated handle 2 is shown as part of a sports racket 1, in the exemplary embodiment a tennis racket.

[0062] The handle has a first handle end 2a provided in the direction of the racket head of the sports racket and a second handle end 2b opposite the first handle end 2a. Between the first handle end 2a and the second handle end 2b, the gripping section 3 for a hand holding the handle is provided, which gripping section 3 has a first gripping area 3a and a second gripping area 3b.

[0063] The first gripping area 3a has a first outer contour 4 along the central longitudinal axis L of the handle 2. According to the invention, the first gripping area 3a begins from the beginning 6d of the recess 6 at a maximum distance of 5 cm along the central longitudinal axis L of the handle 2. The figures show that the beginning 6d of the recess 6 is oriented towards the first handle end 2a. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first outer contour 4 of the first gripping area 3a is shaped to be essentially constant over its entire longitudinal extent - namely with a polygonal, specifically octagonal, cross-section. This cross-section is particularly recognizable from the perspective in Fig. 2 - the sides of the handle not shown are designed equivalently to those visible in Fig. 2.It is noted that in addition to a polygonal cross-section, other cross-sectional shapes are also conceivable - an octagonal cross-section is common in the state of the art for tennis rackets.

[0064] The second gripping area 3b extends along the central longitudinal axis L of the handle 2 with a second outer contour 5. This second outer contour 5 has a recess 6 in the handle cross-section - the recess therefore lies, in the exemplary embodiment, entirely within the second outer contour 5. The second gripping area 3b and thus the second outer contour 5 begin at the beginning 6d of the recess 6 in the handle cross-section and extend to the second handle end 2b - thus, the second gripping area 3b and the handle 2 end at the second handle end 2b. In the exemplary embodiment, this second gripping area 3b has an extension along the central longitudinal axis L of 5.5 cm. In addition, a single recess 6 is provided in the handle cross-section - this may already prove sufficient to achieve the described advantages according to the invention.

[0065] The recess 6 has a base 6a that radially continuously surrounds the central longitudinal axis L of the handle 2 with a circumference reduced by at least 20%, in the exemplary embodiment, 30%, compared to the circumference of the first outer contour 4, measured radially around the longitudinal axis L. The base 6a of the recess 6 is therefore not necessarily the region of the recess 6 or the second outer contour 5 that has the smallest circumference in its outer contour around the central longitudinal axis. Rather, the base 6a of the recess 6, due to its specific reduction values ​​according to claim 1, radially continuously surrounds the central longitudinal axis L, and optionally additionally due to its extension along the central longitudinal axis of the handle 2.

[0066] The beginning 6d of the recess 6 can be defined as the beginning of the reduction in the circumference of the first outer contour 4 toward the bottom 6a of the recess. However, it can also be provided that the beginning 6d of the recess 6 is to be defined as that region on the handle at which a—in particular continuous—enlargement of the circumference of the outer contour of the recess 6 from its bottom 6a toward the first handle end 2a essentially ends. However, it can also be provided that the end of the side region 6b according to claim 2 toward the first handle end 2a represents the beginning 6a of the recess 6.

[0067] Due to the radially continuous circumferential contour, the base 6a of the recess 6 is at least partially—in the exemplary embodiment, over its entire length in the longitudinal extension—present in a complete and continuous circumferential contour around the central longitudinal axis L of the handle 2 and at the same distance from the two handle ends 2a, 2b along the longitudinal axis L of the handle. In the exemplary embodiment, the base 6a of the recess 6 in the handle cross-section has a substantially identical circumference and also an identical cross-sectional shape over its entire extension.The circumference of the base 6a can also vary along the longitudinal extent L of the handle, so that the outer contour of the base 6a has elevations and depressions along the central longitudinal axis L, as long as the feature of the base 6a, namely reduction of the outer contour of at least 20% and preferably up to 40% and further preferred embodiments with this reduction of 25 to 35% or 28 to 32% compared to the first outer contour 4, is met.

[0068] Looking at the figures together, it can be seen that the radially continuous circumferential contour in the exemplary embodiment applies not only to the base 6a of the recess, but to the entire recess 6. Furthermore, the outer contour is continuously rounded—specifically, in a circular path and also concentrically around the central longitudinal axis L of the handle.

[0069] This facilitates, among other things, the manufacture of the handle. It should be noted that the radial periphery can also be rounded and have an elliptical cross-sectional contour; polygonal is also possible, so that the base 6a has a polygonal cross-sectional contour.

[0070] The base 6a of the recess 6 is designed and provided for at least partially supporting the little finger of a hand holding the handle. The base 6a according to the invention makes it possible to accommodate the reduced gripping circumference of the little finger due to anatomical conditions. This results in the aforementioned effects and advantages for holding the handle 2 and for wielding a sports racket connected to or having the handle, with respect to evenly distributed force across the fingers, a relaxed wrist, etc. Muscular strain is relieved. The force required to hold the handle 2 is distributed more evenly across the remaining fingers and parts of the hand, which also leads to relief and relaxation of the wrist.Thus, the handle 2 according to the invention and consequently the sports racket 1 connected thereto can be held securely and comfortably with less effort - and is also easier to maneuver due to the comparatively less rigid wrist.

[0071] In the exemplary embodiment, this first outer contour 4 extends from the first handle end 2a to the beginning 6d of the recess 6 in the handle cross-section - thus the first outer contour 4 directly adjoins the beginning 6d of the recess, which has advantages in terms of production.

[0072] When the little finger is placed on the base 6a of the recess 6, the first outer contour 4 is intended and designed to support the ring finger and / or middle finger and / or index finger and / or thumb. In the exemplary embodiment, based on the side area defined below, the first outer contour 4 is designed to support the majority of the ring finger in contact with the handle 2 when holding it, as well as the entire part of the middle finger, index finger, and thumb in contact with the handle - provided the following approximately applies: The size of the handle is selected such that when grasping it around its longitudinal axis, there is a distance of approximately 1 to 3 millimeters between the fingertips and the ball of the hand. See in this context, especially Fig. 3.In general, however, the first outer contour 4 can be considered the part of the handle on which the middle finger of the hand in contact with the handle rests. A longitudinal extension of 1.5 to 3 cm can be provided for this. With respect to the circumference of this first outer contour 4 radially around the longitudinal axis L, its average value can be provided around this longitudinal extension.

[0073] Furthermore, the recess 6 is rotationally symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis L of the handle 2. This means that the entire recess 6 and thus also its base 6a are identical in every rotational position about the central longitudinal axis L of the handle 2. This improves the ease of handling of the handle - when the handle is rotated in the hand holding it about its longitudinal axis L, the recess 6 in the handle cross-section is therefore always identical, so that the handle according to the invention or a sports racket connected to it or having it is suitable for different types of grip - for forehand, backhand, etc. - and the aforementioned advantages can be realized.

[0074] The recess 6a in the handle cross-section 6 narrows and widens towards and away from the central longitudinal axis L of the handle 2. Thus, the base 6a of the recess 6 in the handle cross-section 6a forms its central part. In the exemplary embodiment, the recess 6 continuously tapers and widens from its base 6a - thus creating side regions 6b, 6c that continuously widen in cross-section in both directions along the longitudinal axis L. This creates a symmetry in the recess in the handle cross-section 6, which to a certain extent also ensures variable positioning of the finger intended for the base of the recess in the handle cross-section 6a and thus also of the hand - for example, with regard to the angle at which this finger is aligned to the longitudinal axis L of the handle 2 when holding it.

[0075] It can also be seen from the figures that the recess 6 has a side region 6b which, from the bottom 6a of the recess 6 in the direction of the first handle end 2a, increases in circumference radially around the longitudinal axis L with regard to the outer contour profiles - continuously in the exemplary embodiment - to 100% of the circumference of the first outer contour profile 4 radially around the longitudinal axis L. The side region 6b thus merges into the first outer contour profile 4 and adjoins it - which, among other things, enables simple production. Furthermore, the side region 6b extends by 12% of the circumference of the first outer contour profile 4 in the longitudinal extent of the handle 2, which can have the aforementioned advantageous adaptation to a ring finger resting on it.

[0076] This makes it possible to place a portion of the finger adjacent to the finger resting on the bottom of the recess 6a onto the side region 6b. See Fig. 3, in which the little finger—namely the entire portion of the little finger that is in contact with the handle 2 when holding it—rests on the bottom 6a, and the ring finger is partially placed, namely with its distal phalanx, on the side region 6b. Thus, the side region 6b reduces the handle circumference that the ring finger must grasp, since the ring finger has a smaller gripping circumference than the middle finger. Consequently, the handle 2 can be held firmly in a simple manner and with force evenly distributed across the fingers. This also helps reduce the risk of the hand slipping along the longitudinal axis L of the handle 2.

[0077] When handling a sports racket 1 connected to or having the handle 2 according to the invention, more pressure is intuitively exerted on the handle by the part of the ring finger resting on the side region 6b. The direction of this pressure is offset from the radial direction of the handle 2, thereby creating a type of clamping effect, which not only improves gripping of the handle 2 but can also relieve strain when gripping with the middle and index fingers, as well as the wrist. Thus, the maneuverability of the handle 2 and of a sports racket 1 connected to it can be achieved in a special way.

[0078] In addition, the bottom of the recess in the handle cross-section extends over a length of 20% of the circumference of the first outer contour in the longitudinal extension of the handle. This feature is used to match the width of the little finger of the hand holding the handle. Thus, it is possible to provide that the part of the little finger of a hand holding the handle 2 which is in contact with the handle 2 can be placed completely or almost completely on the bottom 6a of the recess 6 - and practically completely covers this bottom 6a at least partially in its longitudinal extension - which leads to the distal phalanx of the ring finger resting on the side region 6b of the recess and thus opening into the recess 6, thus finding no or insufficient space to rest predominantly on the bottom 6a of the recess.

[0079] Figure 3 shows that the distal phalanx of the ring finger partially rests on the base 6a of the recess. Nevertheless, the aforementioned advantages of the invention are achievable because, among other things, even when the little finger is positioned further toward the second handle end 2b, the pressure explained above can still be exerted on the side region 6b via the distal phalanx of the ring finger. The second side region 6c, which begins at the base 6a of the recess 6 and widens in diameter toward the second handle end 2b, provides a boundary for the recess 6 against which the little finger can rest, thus reducing the risk of the hand slipping along the longitudinal axis L of the handle.Furthermore, by limiting the recess 6 with the aid of the second side region 6c, it is also possible to specify and ensure the positioning and position of a ring finger in an improved manner, which consequently also makes the positioning of the other fingers on the handle easier or more effective - in particular also that of the distal phalanx of the ring finger.

[0080] Furthermore, the recess 6 is essentially free of steps and edges. This feature enables, among other things, simple production and consistent haptics.

[0081] In the exemplary embodiment, the recess in the handle cross-section e ends toward the second handle end 2b with a diameter 20% larger than the first outer contour 4. The end of the recess in the handle cross-section 6 toward the second handle end 2b thus ends with a diameter 20% larger than the mean diameter of the first outer contour 4. This allows for improved positioning of the edge of the hand and / or the ball of the little finger of a hand holding the handle, making it easier and more comfortable to hold.

[0082] Furthermore, it can be seen from the figures that the second gripping area 3b ends from the end of the recess in the handle cross-section 6 in the direction of the second handle end 2b with a cross-section that is 15% smaller than this end of the recess in the handle cross-section 6. This occurs over a length of 0.7 cm in the longitudinal extension of the handle 2. This can prove to be advantageous, especially if the handle 2 is held in such a way that its second end 2b rests on the middle of the ball of the little finger or the handle is held even further towards the middle of the palm - which is done deliberately when using a tennis racket 1, for example, to increase the reach or to achieve additional mobility in the wrist.

[0083] In order to achieve these advantages when holding the handle 2 with its second end 2b resting against the middle of the ball of the little finger or even further towards the middle of the palm, it can alternatively be provided - although this is not shown in the figures - that the end of the recess in the handle cross-section 6 in the direction of the second handle end 2b and the entire adjoining second outer contour 5 up to the second handle end 2b have essentially the same diameter as the first outer contour 4. In this embodiment, a length of the second gripping area 3b from the second handle end 2b to the end of the recess 6 in the direction of the second handle end 2b of preferably 1.3 cm in the longitudinal extent of the handle 2 is provided for an adult.

[0084] The figures also show a ring band 10, which is connected to the surface of the first gripping section 3a of the handle 2—it runs continuously and radially around its central longitudinal axis L. The ring band 10 is made of a rubber material for easy connection, is thus elastic, and in the relaxed state has approximately one-third to one-half the diameter of the first gripping section for which it is intended.

[0085] To accommodate the widest possible range of different handle diameters, the ring band is designed with a ring diameter of 1 to 2 cm when relaxed. The ring diameter is to be adjusted to the band thickness and elasticity of the ring band to ensure a secure and firm, friction-locked connection to a handle 2.

[0086] As a band thickness, i.e. as the material thickness of the band 10, for example, 0.05 to 0.1 cm may be sufficient so that - apart from elevations 11 formed due to the thickening - the ring band 10 results in as few changes as possible in the first outer contour.

[0087] According to the invention, the annular band 10—two in the exemplary embodiment—forms opposing thickenings 11 along its circumference, which, after attachment of the annular band 10 to the handle 2, form radial elevations 11 thereon. The elevations 11 thus project outwardly away from the surface of the handle 2.

[0088] Particularly advantageous is the increase in the contact surface for a hand holding the handle 2 due to the elevation 11 of the band 10. This advantage can also be particularly evident in combination with the second outer contour 5 according to the invention, since the elevation 11 can contribute to further equalizing the contact surface with other parts of the hand than in the area of ​​the force with which the handle is held via the fingers of the hand.

[0089] Due to the thickened portions 11, the thickness of the band 10 is increased to between 0.1 and 0.45 cm—in the exemplary embodiment, to 0.2 cm. Furthermore, the figures show that the thickened portions 11 are circular in plan view of the band 10, in particular with a diameter of between 0.3 and 1.5 cm—in the exemplary embodiment, 0.5 cm. Thus, the thickened portions 11—which are preferably provided on the handle approximately in the center of the palm by positioning the ring band 10—are particularly adapted to the anatomical conditions of an average adult hand when holding the handle.

Claims

Patent claims: 1 . Elongated handle for a sports racket, especially a tennis racket, • with a first handle end (2a) for providing towards the racket head of the sports racket and with a second handle end (2b) opposite the first handle end (2a), • with a gripping section (3) arranged between the first and second handle ends (2a and 2b), which gripping section (3) has a first gripping area (3a) and a second gripping area (3b), - which first gripping area (3a) has a first outer contour (4) along the central longitudinal axis (L) of the handle (2), in particular one which is shaped substantially identically over its entire longitudinal extent, - and which second gripping area (3b) extends along the central longitudinal axis (L) of the handle (2) with a second outer contour profile (5) having a recess (6) in the handle cross-section from the beginning (6d) of the recess (6) to the second handle end (2b), characterized in that the first gripping area (3a) begins at a maximum distance of 5 cm from the beginning (6d) of the recess (6) along the central longitudinal axis (L) of the handle (2), in particular adjoins the beginning (6d) of the recess (6), and in that the recess (6) has a base (6a) with a rounded and / or angular cross-sectional contour for at least partially supporting the little finger of a hand holding the handle, which base (6a) surrounds the central longitudinal axis (L) of the handle (2) with a profile which is at least 20% to preferably 40%, in particular 25 to 35%, more preferably 28 to 32%, smaller circumference radially continuously runs around,and that the bottom (6a) of the recess (6) extends in particular over a length of 10 to 30%, preferably 13 to 25%, more preferably 17 to 20%, of the circumference of the first outer contour (4) in the longitudinal extension of the handle (2).

2. Handle according to claim 1, characterized in that the recess (6) has a side region (6b), which side region (6b) - extends from the bottom (6a) of the recess (6) towards the first handle end (2a) in cross-section, in particular continuously, increasing to at least 85%, in particular 95 to 100%, of the circumference of the first outer contour (4), - the central longitudinal axis of the handle, in particular with a rounded and / or angular cross-sectional contour, runs radially continuously and - extends by 8 to 20%, in particular 10 to 16%, preferably 11 to 13%, of the circumference of the first outer contour (4) in the longitudinal extent of the handle (2).

3. Handle according to claim 2, characterized in that the side region (6b) runs towards the first handle end (2a) into the beginning (4d) of the recess.

4. Handle according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the bottom (6a) of the recess (6) merges in the direction of the second handle end (2b) into a second side region (6c) with a diameter widening in the direction of the second handle end (2b).

5. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the bottom (6a) of the recess (6) and / or at least one side region (6b, 6c) of the recess (6), in particular the entire second gripping region (3b), runs or runs around the central longitudinal axis (L) of the handle (2) with a rounded and / or polygonal outer contour radially continuously, preferably substantially rotationally symmetrically.

6. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the recess in the handle cross-section (6), in particular the entire second gripping area (3b) up to the second handle end (2b), is designed to be substantially edge-free and step-free.

7. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the bottom (6a) of the recess (6) extends up to a distance of 15 to 25%, in particular 18 to 20%, of the circumference of the first outer contour (4) to the second handle end (2b) in the longitudinal extent of the handle (2).

8. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the second outer contour (5) has a single recess (6), which in particular forms a single base (6a).

9. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the recess (6) ends in the direction of the second handle end (2b) and the first handle end (2a) with substantially the same diameter.

10. Handle according to one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that the second side region (6c) widens in the direction of the second handle end (2b) with a maximum diameter which is 5 to 20% larger, preferably 10 to 15% larger, than the first outer contour (4).

11. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the second outer contour profile (5) from the second handle end (2b) to the beginning of the cross-sectional taper (6) has the same diameter, in particular also a length of 5 to 20%, preferably 7 to 15%, of the circumference of the first outer contour profile in the longitudinal extension of the handle (2).

12. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the second outer contour ends in the second handle end with a cross-section that decreases by 5 to 15%.

13. Handle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second outer contour (5) is formed by a handle cap from the end of the bottom of the recess (6) in the direction of the second handle end (2b).

14. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the gripping section (3) consists of a first and a second gripping area (3a and 3b).

15. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the bottom of the recess in the handle cross-section (6a) forms the central part of the recess in the handle cross-section (6).

16. Handle according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that it is formed from two parts which can be connected to one another, in particular from two plastic half-shells.

17. Sports racket, in particular tennis racket, comprising the handle (2) according to one of the preceding claims.

18. Sports racket according to claim 17, characterized in that it is formed in one piece.

19. Band, in particular elastic ring band (10), for connecting radially around the longitudinal axis to the surface of the first gripping section (3a) of the handle (2) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the band (10) has at least one, in particular two, thickened portions (11) of its band thickness, which thickened portion (11) forms a radial elevation on the handle when connected to the latter.

20. Band according to claim 19, characterized in that the band (10) consists of a rubber material, preferably with a band thickness of 0.05 to 0.1 cm.

21. Band according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the band thickness of the band (10) in the region of the thickening is thickened to 0.1 to 0.45 cm, in particular to 0.2 cm.

22. Band according to one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that the thickening (11) of the band thickness in plan view of the band (10) is circular, in particular with a diameter of 0.3 to 1.5 cm, preferably 0.5 cm.

23. Sports racket, in particular tennis racket (1), comprising the band (10) according to one of claims 19 to 22.

24. Sports racket, in particular tennis racket (1), according to claim 17 or 18 and with a band (10) according to one of claims 19 to 22.

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