You dream of serving aces and hitting winning forehands like the pros, but you've just started playing tennis? Don't worry: even as a beginner, it's entirely possible to progress quickly. You just need to know the right techniques and follow a few simple tips. In this fun and accessible article, discover 5 effective tips to improve your tennis game in no time. And of course, let's not forget to enjoy ourselves on the court along the way!
Tennis, like any sport, relies primarily on good technical foundations. If you're starting out, take the time to learn the fundamental movements. Adopt a good racket grip, a balanced stance facing the ball, and a broad movement for your forehands and backhands. There's no need to try to imitate Rafael Nadal's powerful serve right from the start: instead, focus on a smooth and consistent motion. For example, always keep your eyes fixed on the ball until impact and follow through with your whole body (not just your arm). Don't hesitate to take a few lessons with a coach or watch tutorials to properly integrate these basics. A solid technique from the beginning will save you precious time later on!
There is no secret: to progress quickly, the consistency of training is essential. Plan to play tennis as often as possible, even during short but frequent sessions. A few one-hour training sessions spread over the week are better than a single four-hour session once a month. By regularly repeating the same movements, you will improve your coordination and consistency in the game. (That famous day when you return ten balls in a row without error will come sooner than you think!) Don't hesitate to vary the exercises to avoid boredom. For example, hit some balls against the wall to work on your forehand, practice serving to improve your accuracy, or organize small friendly matches to put your progress into practice. The more active you are on the court, the faster the results will be felt.
Training is great, but nothing beats the experience of a real match to boost your progress. As soon as you feel ready, start with small friendly matches. The real match situation, with a score and an opponent, will teach you to handle pressure, think tactically, and manage your emotions. (Yes, we all get a little stressed during our first matches, it's normal!) Don't worry too much about the result at the beginning: the goal is to learn. In a match, try mainly to return one more ball than your opponent, rather than attempting impossible winning shots. Gradually, you'll better understand your own game and that of your opponents. Playing matches regularly (even against stronger opponents) is one of the best ways to improve quickly in tennis.
The question of tennis equipment is crucial, especially for a beginner. Playing with a suitable racket for your level and comfortable shoes can prevent many frustrations... and injuries.
Make sure you have a racket that is neither too heavy nor too light, with a wide enough head to help you hit the ball accurately. Similarly, choose special tennis shoes that offer good support to avoid slipping during lateral movements.
There are specialized sites like ProTennis.fr, a reference for players wishing to equip themselves well, where you will find all the necessary equipment (rackets, balls, accessories, etc.).
Good equipment will give you confidence and allow you to focus on your game rather than material discomforts.
Finally, remember that tennis is primarily a game and a pleasure! To progress quickly, you must maintain the desire to play regularly and not get discouraged by the first setback (in every sense of the word). Adopt a positive mindset and appreciate each small progress. For example, rejoice in that serve that finally clears the net or that great rally you won. Progress often comes in stages, so don't be discouraged if you feel like you're stagnating for a while. Keep playing for fun and trying new things without pressure. Your level will eventually rise naturally. Remember that even champions were beginners once: the important thing is to keep the passion for the game and enjoy yourself on the court!
If you live in Lyon or its region, many places allow you to put these tips into practice. Here are some locations (clubs and free-access courts) where you can play tennis in the Lyon metropolitan area:
Tennis Club de Lyon (Lyon 6th) – A historic club located near the Tête d’Or Park, with numerous courts and a tennis school for all ages. Tennis Club du 8th (Lyon) – A friendly club in the 8th arrondissement, ideal for both leisure and competition. Courts de la Doua (Villeurbanne) – About fifteen outdoor courts with free access on the Doua campus, open to the public during the week (ideal for playing without a subscription). Tennis courts in Caluire-et-Cuire – Two renovated outdoor courts near the Caluire swimming pool, accessible for free upon reservation with the town hall.
Or find here: the list of tennis courts in Lyon
With these tips in hand and a good place to play near you, you have all the keys to quickly progress in tennis. So grab your racket, head to the court, and have fun!
Author Audrey on 01 December 2022
Sports and Leisure : Leisure
Author Audrey on 06 April 2023
Sports and Leisure : Creative leisure activities