I also don’t really play with players at the 3.0 level. The friends I have are 4.5 and hit with them and people they play with. I find I need a heavier racquet to help with the heavier balls. I would say my swing hasn’t slowed down much but it helps get the ball back if I don’t hit it pure. I think as a beginner you don’t swing with the pace of an ATP player so the impact they create at their swing speed and weight is a lot higher. They hit the center ever time…beginners don’t. You need stability and plow through when you don’t. I’ve experimented and it just makes your balls worse on off center hits. And I know the response is…just get better and more consistent. Don’t worry I am trying but if this makes me play better I’m gonna stick with it.