Whether you’re just starting out or already an advanced player, tennis is a demanding sport that challenges both your physical and mental abilities.
Dear Lykkers! It requires the seamless coordination of your entire body and sharp decision-making skills. The more you practice the fundamentals, the more you’ll refine your technique and elevate your performance.
Why Play Tennis?
A Boost for Mind and Body
Tennis offers a wealth of benefits, improving hand-eye coordination, balance, and agility. Its physical demands keep you active and fit while also serving as a fantastic stress reliever. The quick movements and strategic elements enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, whether it’s perfecting your split-step, executing an overhead smash, or deciding on the best shot placement.
Building Social and Teamwork Skills
Playing tennis requires at least two participants, making it a great way to improve social interactions. Doubles matches also strengthen teamwork and collaboration, adding another dimension to the game’s appeal.
What Equipment Do You Need to Play Tennis?
Essentials for the Court
To get started, you’ll need a racket, tennis shoes, a ball, and access to a court with a regulation net. Choose a racket suited to your skill level, ensuring the head size and grip are comfortable. Tennis shoes with lateral support are essential to avoid injuries during quick side-to-side movements. Some clubs may have specific dress codes, so be mindful of that when planning your attire. Accessories like wristbands and headbands can also help manage sweat during intense play.
What Are the Basic Rules of Tennis?
Key Fundamentals
Stay within the lines: Serves must land in the opposite service box, and during rallies, the ball must stay within the singles or doubles court boundaries as appropriate.
Keep score accurately: Announce the server’s score first and follow tennis’s unique scoring system, starting from love (0) and progressing to 15, 30, and 40.
Respect the net: Avoid touching the net or altering its position during play, as it results in an automatic loss of the point.
Use only the racket: Dropping or throwing the racket is not allowed; you can only return the ball with your racket.
Follow bounce and contact rules: Hit the ball after one bounce, and ensure it stays in play without bouncing twice.
Beginner Tennis Lesson | Forehand, Backhand & Serve
Video by Intuitive Tennis
How Does Scoring Work in Tennis?
Understanding the Scoring System
Tennis scoring may seem complex initially but is straightforward with practice. Games progress through points (love, 15, 30, and 40), with a player needing to win by two points. Sets consist of six games, and players must lead by two games to secure the set. A 6-6 tie introduces a tiebreak, decided by a seven-point mini-match (or ten points in the final set).
How to Play Tennis
Steps to Master the Game
Decide who serves first: Use a coin toss or spin the racket. The server gets two chances to land a valid serve; failing results in a double fault.
Alternate serve sides: Start on the right (deuce side) and alternate sides after each point.
Play to your strengths: Use your forehand, backhand, and other strokes strategically.
Think quickly: Decide between keeping the ball in play or going for a winning shot based on the situation.
Switch sides during odd games: This ensures fair conditions, especially on outdoor courts with varying sunlight and wind.
Prepare for tiebreaks: A 6-6 score leads to a tiebreak, where players must win by two points to secure the set.
Tennis is not just a sport; it’s a mental and physical challenge that sharpens your skills and keeps you fit. With practice, strategy, and the right equipment, you can excel on the court while enjoying all the benefits this dynamic game offers.
