Most everyone who plays tennis, enjoys it and loves it, so much so that tennis is a sport that appeals to all ages. People of all levels and ages populate tennis courts all over the world. Tennis is fun. When you throw the word lesson after the word tennis, does it sound onerous? Well if it does, Avery Shackelford of mytennislessons.com has ideas to emphasize the fun in learning tennis at different levels. Here are some of them:
For beginners:
- Repeating fundamentals and setting goals is important for beginners. One good drill is have two players on opposite sides hit the ball back and forth as many times as possible. Have them set a goal to hit five, 10 or 20 shots in a row and increase their goal as they meet their target.
- Tennis is about knowing your fundamentals but fitness is a vital part as well. Here's a cardio drill to work on, "one person stands between the baseline and service line, racket in hand. The person on the opposite side of the net does not have a racket, but hand feeds the ball to the other player. The player with the racket then hits the ball over the net and the feeder tries to catch it in the air or on the first bounce. After the ball is retrieved, both people sprint up to the net and switch racket and ball, then backpedal to their starting positions. Repeat the drill several times and include a point-keeping system for balls caught."
Intemediate level:
- Live ball drills are challenging and develops the ability to plan points and mentally prepare for competitive play. Keeping score at this level draws out the competitive spirit.
- Serving is one of the toughest components of the game and it's importance can not be ignored. A drill that helps emphasize the importance of serving is allowing each player only one serve. One chance at a serve quickly reveals the value of a good serve and emphasizes the importance of focusing on consistency and control.
Advanced Players:
- Improve your aim. Create a smaller court and play a point game in which the only part of the court that’s in is the doubles alley. Have both players start on the deuce or ad side of the court so that they’re practicing down-the-line shots. Switch sides for every round. To make it more challenging have players stand crosscourt from each other.
- One player is only allowed to hit down the line and the other is only allowed to hit crosscourt. Switch roles after each game. Shot placement, ability to control the ball, and footwork are at the core of this drill.
***
For more details: 14 Ideas to Make Tennis Lessons Fun at Any Level
Check out: Future Stars Tennis Camps
Image Credit: Future Stars Camps