By incorporating these expert tips into your summer tennis routine, you can give yourself a competitive edge and enjoy a successful season on the court.
By Mark Kovacs, Ph.D., CTPS, MTPS, Kovacs Institute
As the summer months approach, tennis enthusiasts are gearing up for an exciting season of competition and recreation. However, to truly excel on the court, players need to adopt a strategic and holistic approach to their training and preparation. As a sports scientist who works with top-level athletes, including some of the best tennis athletes in the world, here are some tips that can help you improve your game this summer.
Prioritize physical fitness
Tennis is a physically demanding sport that requires players to be strong, fast, and agile. As such, players should focus on developing their cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and agility. Engaging in off-court exercises that involve intermittent sprint activities like running, cycling, swimming, and agility drills can help to enhance one’s physical fitness.
Refine your technique
While physical fitness is certainly important, it is not enough on its own to ensure success on the tennis court. Players also must strive to perfect their technique and execution of strokes. To do so, consider enlisting the help of a coach who can provide real, personalized feedback and guidance. A good coach can speed up your improvement significantly. Additionally, practice drills that focus on specific aspects of your game, such as your serve or backhand, to further refine your technique.
Stay hydrated
Proper hydration is a key aspect of tennis performance that often is overlooked. Players should aim to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after their matches to avoid dehydration, which can lead to fatigue and decreased performance. The hot and humid conditions in Atlanta during the summer always are a challenge but taking the right step with your hydration can provide some significant benefits.
Protect yourself from the sun
Playing tennis during the summer months often means spending significant time in the sun, which can be harmful to one’s skin and overall health. It is therefore essential to protect oneself by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with an adequate SPF level. So many great options now exist, from clothing options, great sunglasses, and sweat-resistant sunscreen.
Prioritize rest and recovery
Finally, players should make rest and recovery a priority in their training regimen. Adequate sleep, proper nutrition, and taking breaks as needed all can help to prevent burnout and injury. Remember, taking care of oneself off the court is just as crucial to performance as playing the game itself.
By incorporating these expert tips into your summer tennis routine, you can give yourself a competitive edge and enjoy a successful season on the court. Whether you are a seasoned player or someone getting started, prioritizing your physical and mental well-being is key to unlocking your full potential as a tennis player.
