Are you new to the game of tennis or picking it up after a few years out of the game? This wonderful sport is truly accessible to everyone and does not require a lot of equipment.
It’s very easy to get started.
In addition, it’s a great way to get in your required exercise for the week! So, without further ado, let’s get started on what you need to play tennis so you can ace your first session.
Get A Good Tennis Racket
First and foremost, you will need a good racket. You can find these at any sporting goods store or even online. It is important to get a racket that is comfortable for you to hold and that has the right amount of power and control. There are many different brands and varieties to choose from, including Babolat, Wilson and Head.
If you have never played before, it is recommended that you get a racket with a larger head. This will help you make contact with the ball more often. As you improve your skills, you can then move to a smaller-headed racket for more control.
Score A Gym Bag Or Holdall
Once you have your racket, it’s time to start thinking about the rest of your gear. You will need a bag to hold all of your things as you hit the court. A regular gym bag or duffel bag will work just fine, although you can get some great bags that will hold your racket, shoes and all of your tennis accessories.
Typically, these bags have a separate compartment for your shoes to keep them clean and dry and separate from any food or drink you might have put in your bag.
Seek Out Some Tennis Shoes
Before purchasing tennis shoes, think about the court surfaces you will be playing on. For example, if you are going to be playing mostly on clay courts, you will want to get a shoe with good traction.
If you foresee yourself playing on hard courts more frequently, you might want a court shoe with extra support in the ankle area. And if you plan on playing on grass courts, consider getting a shoe with a low profile to avoid slipping.
No matter what surface you will be playing on the most, all tennis shoes should have good lateral support to protect your ankles from rolling when you make quick moves from side to side.
Buy A Big Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key when playing any sport, and tennis is no different. You will want to make sure you have a big water bottle with you so that you can stay hydrated throughout your game.
If you don’t drink enough water, you will start to feel fatigued, and your performance will suffer. It is also important to drink water before and after your game to prevent cramping and injuries.
Pack A Few Tennis Balls
Of course, you will need some tennis balls to practice or play with. You can purchase these at any sporting goods store or online. If you are just starting out, it is recommended that you get a few cans of tennis balls so that you don’t have to keep running to retrieve them every time you hit one out of bounds. The best tennis ball brands include Wilson, Penn and Dunlop.
Bring A Friend
Finally, let’s talk about who you can play with. Tennis is a great sport to play with a friend. Not only will you have someone to talk to in between games, but you will also have someone to help you improve your skills.
Plus, it is always more fun to compete with someone else rather than playing alone. Tennis clubs often encourage people to play with others of similar skill levels so that everyone can enjoy the game and improve their skills at the same time.
Now that you know what you need to get started playing tennis, it’s time to go out and buy your gear. Then find a friend and hit the court! You’ll be having a great time in no time.
