The Fitness Difference by Chris Thomas

The Importance of Fitness
HTA Coach Chris Thomas

If you have ever played several, grueling three set matches in one day you know how important it is to be in great physical shape. Having the ability to last on the court for long periods of time and to recover quickly will give you a major advantage during matches.

Fitness training should go beyond aerobic conditioning and include speed, quickness, agility, strength and endurance training. If you want to be at the top of your game you have to devote time on a consistent basis to increase your overall fitness. For all juniors that are gearing up for the high school season, now is the time to put your fitness regime into high gear. Matches (and positions on varsity teams) are rarely won by the player that hits their strokes the hardest but are almost always won by the player that consistently moves around the court with excellent footwork. Can you imagine the difference it would make in your game if during a third set tiebreak you felt like it was the first set? Being able to get to every ball and hitting it in your strike zone will make a huge difference in a long close match. Increasing your overall fitness level is something every player can do that will definitely help every time they step one the court.

There are many activities you can do to increase your fitness level. I am a big believer in making sure that you raise your heart rate for at least 20 minutes as a starting point for every workout. Many activities that can be utilized include jogging (outside or on a treadmill), riding a stationary or recumbent bike, using an elliptical or stair stepper or one of my favorites – inline skating. Additionally, I like to include some type of speed and agility training in my daily workouts. A few good exercises are sprints, speed ladder, and jumping rope. The last element I like to include is strength training. The key is to concentrate on your form, use lower weights and more repetitions and be sure to include leg work and core work.

Fitness is a major factor in becoming the best tennis player you can. You need to discipline yourself and make fitness training part of your daily practice routine. Work hard and give it 100% and you will see the results on the court.