FAQs for New Tennis Players
Why do I need tennis lessons?
Tennis is very technical and very nuanced. Learning on your own or through online instructional videos is a poor strategy. Some online videos offer good advice, but you won’t receive real-time feedback from the trained eye of a professional instructor. Taking tennis lessons - especially private lessons - is the fastest and best way to navigate the techniques and strategies that you’ll need to play the game.
Private or group lessons?
In my view, new players at any age should start with private lessons and eventually look to strike a balance between private instruction and group practice. If you have the time, look to play at least twice per week, taking 5 lessons before your first group session. You’ll then want to maintain a weekly or biweekly private lesson while you find more time for competitive group practices.
How many lessons do I need before I’m ready to play with others?
Depending on your natural aptitude, you may be able to join a beginner-intermediate group after only 3-5 hours of private instruction. If you’re hoping to play with a friend who has years of tennis experience, you’ll likely need to practice regularly for at least a year before you’re ready for that challenge. For best results, continue with private instruction 1-2 times per week in your first 6 months to 1 year playing.
My friend(s) and I want to start playing together. Is this a good idea?
Healthy competition among friends is a great, but consider taking some private lessons first. If you’re both brand new to tennis, you should seek out lots of repetitions and feedback. Moreover, if you’re planning to include a friend, I highly recommend making sure that you are similarly athletic/ play at a similar skill level. You will enjoy playing with each other more when the level of play is relatively competitive.
Is tennis strenuous exercise?
The strenuousness of tennis depends on your level. Tennis is very strenuous for players that have learned the mechanics and are competent in long rallies. For brand new players, tennis may not be particularly hard. However, after several weeks of practice, you can expect longer rallies that combine aerobic conditioning and anaerobic movements. Depending on your level, you can expect to burn 400-700 calories in an hour of singles and 250-450 calories in an hour of doubles.
Will I get injured playing tennis?
Tennis presents a low risk of acute injury but a moderate risk for overuse injuries such as elbow tendinitis (tennis elbow), rotator cuff tendinitis, lower back strains, sore knees, wrists, and hips. These types of injuries are more common in players with poor technique and clumsy footwork. Acute injuries like broken bones, sprains, and dislocations are rare, but they can happen. Players should wear proper footwear, remain vigilant for loose balls, and maintain distance with other players.
How and where can I find competition in tennis?
Once you’ve built up the requisite skills, you can easily find competition to fit your skillset by joining USTA or UTR. These organizations offer leagues and local tournaments that match your skill level. If you’re looking for casual competition in Encino, I offer group clinics for players of all levels. I am also glad to set up practice matches between players in my network.
How long until I can really play/until I’m good at tennis?
Tennis is difficult, and that’s the point. Even the most gifted athletes will need extensive time mastering the basic skillset. In my opinion, an average athlete will need around 20 hours of instruction and practice to reach basic rallying competency and about 100 hours of productive court time to reach a competitive-intermediate level. Working twice a week with an instructor, you can hit these goals in 2 months and 12 months, respectively.