Have you ever watched someone hit a ball with a racket on a green court and thought, "Oh, tennis must be so hard!" But tennis can be a fun and easy sport to learn, even for beginners.
This article will discuss how to play tennis correctly, safely, and enjoyably, especially for beginners who are just starting to try it, casual players who want to improve their skills, or anyone who wants to make tennis a regular sport for health and entertainment.
What is Tennis?
Tennis is a racket sport that requires players to hit the ball over a net into the opponent's court. This sport combines technique, strategy, physical strength, and mental concentration to make the game more effective and enjoyable.
Every shot and footwork determines ball control and the chance to win points. Players must master hand, eye, and foot coordination to play consistently.
The history of tennis begins with the game jeu de paume in France in the 12th century. Originally played with the hands before the invention of rackets, it later evolved into the racquet sport we know today.
Modern lawn tennis originated in Victorian England and developed through major tournaments like Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open. Today, tennis is an international sport with millions of fans worldwide.
Besides being a competitive sport, tennis is also a popular recreational activity. Many people enjoy tennis because it can be played alone, in pairs, or in doubles, making it a flexible and enjoyable experience.
Also read: 6 Types of Sports with Rackets that You Need to Know
Benefits of Tennis for Health
Playing tennis is not only fun but also beneficial for physical health. This sport improves muscle strength , agility, stamina, and hand-eye coordination. Repeated forehand and backhand strokes train balance and reflexes, while quick footwork strengthens the legs and core.
Tennis also offers psychological benefits. Mental focus and quick decision-making skills are honed during a rally. Many players experience relaxation and stress reduction effects because the activity increases the release of endorphins.
Furthermore, tennis offers social benefits. Playing with friends or in a club expands relationships, boosts self-confidence, and offers healthy competition. With these physical, mental, and social benefits, tennis is a complete sport suitable for almost everyone.
Basic Tennis Equipment Needed by Beginners
Before playing, beginners should understand tennis equipment. The tennis racket is the primary tool that determines the control and power of a shot.
Beginners are advised to choose a lightweight racket with a comfortable grip. Flexible strings make it easier to control the ball and reduce the risk of wrist injury.
Tennis balls are also essential for training and matches. Fully pressurized balls are suitable for matches, while pressureless balls are more durable for regular practice.
There are also beginner balls with a lower bounce. These balls make it easier to master basic techniques and help improve shot consistency.
Tennis shoes support quick lateral movements and maintain foot stability. Additional accessories such as extra grip, wristbands, headbands, and flexible clothing also enhance comfort and training performance.
Also read: 7 Endurance Exercises to Keep Your Body Strong and Less Tired
Basic Rules of Tennis
1. Scoring System and Sets
In tennis, the score is calculated in terms of love, 15, 30, and 40. If the score is tied at 40–40, it is called deuce and the player needs an advantage to win the game.
A set is won with a minimum of six games. The number of sets determines the winner, whether in a best-of-three or best-of-five set format.
2. Player Positions and Service Turns
The player starting the rally must stand behind the baseline and serve diagonally to the opponent's court. Serves must be made in the order of rotation for each game.
By understanding the service positions and rules, beginners can start playing with more confidence. This helps avoid repeat faults and ensures smooth rallies.
3. Field Lines and Playing Area
Lines on the court indicate playing boundaries, such as the baseline, service line, center mark, and double sideline. Beginners need to understand the function of each line to more easily judge whether the ball is in or out.
Singles use specific lines, while doubles use additional outer lines. By understanding the playing area, beginners can reduce mistakes and play more consistently.
Also read: Strengthen your grip, come on, practice with handgrips!
Basic Tennis Techniques for Beginners
1. Forehand and Backhand
The forehand is the most common tennis shot used in rallies. Foot position and hip rotation significantly influence the consistency and power of the shot.
The backhand can be played with one or two hands, depending on the player's comfort. The racket swing from the backswing to the follow-through determines the accuracy of the shot.
Beginners are advised to try grip variations such as Eastern, Western, or Semi-Western for the forehand. A proper grip helps control the ball and prevents wrist injuries.
2. Serve and Smash
Serving requires coordination between the toss of the ball, foot position, and the point of contact with the racket. Correct technique determines whether the ball lands in the service box or not.
A smash is used to attack a high ball from the opponent. A quick swing and a focus on accuracy and power are key to winning points.
Regularly practicing serves and smashes builds confidence while playing. Beginners will find it easier to score points and master rallies with these shots.
3. Volleyball and Drop Shot
Volleying is done with the racket in front of the body and a cutting motion. This technique is essential for fast play near the net and controlling the direction of the opponent's ball.
A drop shot is a delicate shot that lands the ball close to the net. This shot confuses the opponent and helps change the rhythm of the rally.
Mastering the volley and drop shot makes the game more varied and unpredictable. Beginners can use these techniques to score points and win rallies with clever strategies.
Maximize Your Tennis Practice with SVRG Equipment
Understanding the basic techniques, rules of the game, and proper tennis equipment is key for beginners to play effectively and safely. With regular practice and a focus on forehands, backhands, serves, and net strokes, your playing skills will gradually improve.
To support your performance, complete your workout with the best sports equipment from SVRG. Comfortable activewear , headbands , kinesio tape , and various other accessories are designed to make your workout more stable, safe, and optimal.
Buy your favorite tennis gear now and experience optimal comfort and performance every time you play. Start your journey to becoming a more confident, consistent tennis player, and ready to have fun on the court!
