Despite what you may think, your house could use a little more racquet—but note how we spelled that. We’re not referring to upping the commotion but rather to getting everyone in motion. Tennis is an ideal sport for kids, husbands, seniors, and women just like you. In fact, research shows that those who play at a moderate-to-vigorous pace 3 hours per week cut their risk of death in half while banishing depression, anger, and stress. Plus, the sport burns more calories than swimming, rowing, hiking, or golfing. (Hence the short skirts.) The good news is that you don’t have to join a snooty tennis club to play; there are open courts at playgrounds and schools everywhere. To start, let us lob a few tips your way.
Check out the racquets. If you haven’t swung a tennis racquet since you took that swipe at your little brother after he drew mustaches on all your Barbies, you’re going to be impressed. New pre-strung beginner’s models are lightweight and have big surface areas (generally 107 to 125 square inches), which provides a larger sweet spot for hitting the ball.
Try a clay court. Compared with asphalt, the softer surface slows the speed of the ball and extends rallies by 22%, which is good for newbies. It’s also easier on muscles and joints. To find a clay court near you, visit PlayTheClay.com.
Look here, not there. One common mistake beginners make is looking at where they want their shot to go. Wrong. As the ball approaches your racquet, look down, keeping your head still and your eyes on the point of impact. Then look up. You should see your arm cross under your face on forehands and backhands. Have someone hit you soft shots and practice that.
Ace the serve. Here’s the secret to a sizzler: Toss the ball high enough over your forward toe that the arm holding the racquet has to fully extend in order to hit it. Stretching 6 inches upward when you hit raises your chance of landing in the service box by 30%.
Keep it together. Okay, you’ve just double-faulted, and you’re about to lose a bet that involves detailing your husband’s car. You’ve got 20 seconds to straighten things out. For the first 5 seconds, acknowledge the error, then let it go. During the next 10, breathe and relax. Then take the final 5 to visualize what you want to do. Now do it!
Soothe the soreness. To make your own ice pack, slit a 1-inch opening in a worn-out tennis ball, fill it with water, and freeze overnight. It works particularly well on sore backs. Lie down, put it under the ache, and roll around. (Drives the dog crazy, though.)
Dress smart. If you wear a bright shirt—something yellow, orange, or green—your opponent won’t be able to pick up the ball as quickly when you hit it. Advantage you.
every Sunday after church, we change and go to the courts. Sometimes play in sweats. Lots of great exercise!!
Dress Up a Plain Suit
