Okay, so I’ve been on this mission to get better at tennis, and let me tell you, it’s been a journey! I wasn’t terrible to begin with, but I definitely wasn’t winning any tournaments. I wanted to share what I’ve been doing, because it’s actually been working.
Step 1: Getting My Butt on the Court
First things first, I had to actually, you know, play tennis. Seems obvious, right? But I’m good at making excuses. “It’s too hot,” “I’m too tired,” “I have to fold laundry…” You name it, I’ve used it. So, I made a pact with myself: at least three times a week, I’m hitting the courts. No excuses, at less once per week at minimum.
Step 2: Finding a Decent Partner
Playing against a wall is okay for practice, but it doesn’t really prepare you for a real game. I needed someone who was a little better than me, but not so good that I’d get totally destroyed every time. I asked around, and finally found a friend of a friend who was perfect. We started playing regularly.
Step 3: Drills, Drills, Drills
Just hitting the ball back and forth is fun, but it doesn’t really improve your skills that much. I started doing drills, and I use what I found that I like and good at, here they are:
- Forehand and backhand drills: We’d stand on opposite baselines and just rally, focusing on consistency and depth.
- Volley drills: One person at the net, the other at the baseline, practicing quick reactions and net play.
- Serve practice: I’d fill a basket with balls and just practice my serve, over and over again.
Step 4: Watching the Pros
I started watching more tennis matches, but not just for entertainment. I’d really pay attention to how the pros moved, their footwork, their shot selection. I’d try to pick up little things I could incorporate into my own game, and imitate their posture.
Step 5: Actually Playing Matches
All the practice in the world doesn’t matter if you don’t put it to the test. I started playing more matches, even though I knew I’d probably lose a lot at first. And I did! But with each match, I learned something new. I saw where my weaknesses were, what I needed to work on. I could feel my control on the balls were much better than before.
Step 6: Staying Patient
This is the hardest part, probably. Getting better at tennis takes time. There were days when I felt like I was getting worse, not better. But I kept reminding myself that it’s a process. You don’t become a pro * that is what kept me going.
So, that’s my journey so far. I’m still not amazing, but I’m definitely better than I was. And the best part is, I’m having a lot more fun! If you’re trying to improve your tennis game, I hope this helps. Just remember to be consistent, practice with purpose, and most importantly, be patient with yourself.
