Lose it on the court

Tennis is an excellent way to maintain your fitness level. No matter what your level is- beginner or advanced- you can have fun and stay healthy.

For those of you still fit enough to play singles then you can anticipate weight loss from your sessions on the court. Some of us are now only playing doubles and that will keep you healthy and fit but it is not enough cardio to contribute to weight loss. Many fit their workouts in to an already very busy day. Tennis should be an addition to your regular cardio workout.

The awesome thing about the game of tennis is how social it is. You can pick up games in the park or on a community court. You do NOT need to join a club to enjoy. However, you must be careful. It is possible to have very energetic games but sometimes the games are long and enjoyable but your calorie burn is not particularly high. Tennis can add to your workout routine but it is not a substitute for cardio and weights. This is not necessarily bad news.We all need variation in our workout routine. Tennis is fun, social and in most states, an outdoor activity.

Tennis has a lot of lateral movement. Lateral movement, side to side, engages your outer thighs. For us girls, this is excellent news. As you continue to play you will begin to see more definition in your thighs. Tennis involves short bursts of activity. This means that it is similar to interval training. It will raise your heart rate but not for an extended period of time. That is why you need to continue other cardio and weight training.Tennis also engages muscles you do not often use in your back, shoulder and core. As you strike the ball, forehand or backhand, you are engaging your core muscles. This is good news as the core burns lots of calories and working it adds to fundamental strength.

Finally, remember that tennis is incredibly easy to pick up. Ignore what you see at the US Open and Wimbledon. Most tennis is gritty and ugly but also fun and healthy as well. Racquets can be bought at Target or Wal-Mart and balls can be found everywhere. Think about expanding your workout routine with tennis. You will find like minded people and enjoy the sunshine. At least, you will enjoy lots of competition and move your feet in ways you never knew possible!

Submitted by Tennis Coach, June

Until next time...