So you want to start playing tennis as an adult, but you don’t know where to start! Consider this your guide to getting on the court and having some fun.
We’re a husband and wife team that learned to play tennis as adults. Our kids play junior tennis too so our family is immersed in the world of tennis and it’s our main hobby. We hope our tips will help you out too:). Feel free to let us know in comments where your tennis journey is right now!
Ever dream of gracefully gliding across the court, the satisfying thwack of a perfectly timed shot echoing in your ears? Tennis might seem like an exclusive club, reserved for athletes and country club members. But guess what? The court is open to everyone, and anyone can pick up a racket and experience the joy of this amazing sport!
Do you ever watch the Wimbledon or Roland Garros and have a glimpse of of yourself playing like these athletes? While picking up tennis as a hobby in your adult years won’t have you playing in a major tournament, you can definitely create a tennis circle around you and enjoy hitting on the court with confidence.
Why Take the Plunge?
More than just a sport, tennis is a gateway to fun, fitness, and friendship. Whether you’re looking to burn calories, sharpen your reflexes, or simply have a blast with friends, tennis offers something for everyone. It’s a low-impact activity that engages your entire body and mind, leaving you feeling energized and accomplished. Plus, the social aspect can’t be overstated! Hitting with friends or joining a group lesson is a fantastic way to meet like-minded people and build a supportive community.
Ready to Set (Up)?
1. Gear Up (Without Breaking the Bank)
Ditch the fancy equipment worries! Start with a comfortable, used racket from a sporting goods store or online marketplace. You don’t need the latest technology, just something that feels good in your hand. As for attire, think comfortable athletic wear that allows for movement.
When I first started playing I used a very inexpensive racket and after few months, my coach told me that I could upgrade to something better. A local tennis store would allow players to rent rackets for a very small fee, so I got a few and played in a clinic with each of them. There was a clear winner and I ended up investing in that racket later on. But you don’t need anything expensive to get started!
2. Find Your Perfect Court
Public parks, community centers, and tennis clubs often offer affordable court rentals and beginner-friendly programs. Talk to your local recreation department or browse online resources to find options that suit your budget and schedule.
We both play tennis locally but have had the chance to travel quite a lot with our son’s junior tennis matches. Some cities have better opportunities than others, but everywhere you can still find some programs.
3. Master the Basics (No Pressure!)
Don’t be intimidated by the forehands and backhands! Many local parks and tennis centers offer beginner lessons or clinics. These sessions will introduce you to the fundamentals of grip, swing, and footwork in a fun and supportive environment. Alternatively, grab a friend and practice against a wall or with a ball machine – even learning the basics can be enjoyable with good company!
There’s a player we know that when he couldn’t find anyone to hit with, he played against the ball machine perfecting returning topspin balls and other scenarios. He’s a solid player that returns every ball back no matter what you throw at him.
4. Join the Fun & Find Your Tribe
Group Lessons: Joining a group lesson is an excellent way to learn the ropes, make friends, and find your “doubles match” in terms of skill level and personality. Plus, the shared learning experience makes it less daunting and more enjoyable.
Clinics: Focused clinics targeting specific skills like serves or volleys can help you refine your technique and address specific weaknesses.
Hitting Partners: Online platforms and local courts are great places to find players of similar skill levels. Regular hitting sessions are a fun way to practice, improve, and build lasting friendships.
Don’t be afraid to take classes in different facilities even when you’re happy where you currently take classes. You don’t know what you don’t know until you try new things.
For one of us, finding a good clinic and then a local league has been a great way to enjoy playing tennis as an adult.
5. Embrace the Journey, Not the Perfection
Listen to your body: Start slow and gradually increase intensity. Remember, you’re building new skills, not training for Wimbledon. Take breaks, listen to your body, and avoid pushing yourself too hard.
Celebrate small victories: Every successful serve, every returned ball, is a win! Focus on progress, not perfection, and appreciate the joy of learning a new sport.
Make it Fun: Experiment with different formats like doubles, mixed doubles, or even friendly games with unique scoring systems. Keep things fresh and engaging, and remember, laughter and enjoyment are key!
Bonus Tip: Leverage Technology: Tennis apps and online resources offer a wealth of instructional videos, drills, and even virtual coaches to help you learn and practice anytime, anywhere. Some of our tennis related apps are USTA app, UTR app, PlaybyPoint app and more.
Tennis is a lifelong journey, filled with learning, laughter, and competition. So, grab your racket, step onto the court, and discover the joy of this amazing sport! Remember, you don’t need to be a pro to have fun and reap the benefits. Embrace the learning process, find your tribe, and most importantly, enjoy the thrill of the game!