Fiona Outdoors logo My independent guide to the best of Scotland outdoors

How tennis could help you to get fit

Written by Fiona

March 07 2024

So you want to get fit? And you’ve decided tennis is your way to do it. Well, the experts at TennisHQ have revealed, step by step, how the sport can get you fit in the best possible way.

Tennis is known for a number of benefits, below we’ll list some of the obvious and less obvious things you’ll get out of playing the sport.

A longer life

Engaging in the sport of tennis has been associated with several health benefits that can potentially contribute to an extended life expectancy. Regular participation in tennis promotes cardiovascular health, muscular strength and overall physical fitness.

The intense physical activity involved in playing tennis helps in maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. This physical fitness aspect of tennis can contribute to a longer life by enhancing overall health.

Mental agility

Tennis is not just physically demanding but it also requires strategic thinking, quick decision-making and mental agility. Engaging in a sport that challenges you mentally can improve cognitive functions and keep your mind sharp. This uses the lower back part of the brain – and enables improved mental agility in life, too.
Better reaction time

Tennis involves rapid changes in direction and responding to a fast-moving ball. Regular play can enhance your reflexes and reaction time, which can have positive implications for other aspects of your life.
Emotional resilience

Dealing with the ups and downs of a tennis match, the pressure of competition and the need to stay focused can help to build emotional resilience. Learning to handle stress and pressure on the tennis court can translate into improved emotional well-being off the court.
Enhanced creativity and adaptive thinking

Tennis requires players to think creatively, adjusting their strategies based on their opponent’s moves. This creative problem-solving aspect can spill over into other areas of your life, fostering a more innovative and adaptable mindset.

Social networking

Tennis is a sport that often involves socialising, whether it’s playing doubles or joining a tennis club. Building a network of tennis friends can provide a supportive community, encouraging regular play and contributing to overall fitness.

Tennis can be a fun and enjoyable activity, especially when played with friends or in a lighthearted manner. Laughter and enjoyment during physical activity release endorphins, contributing to a positive mood and overall sense of well-being.
Improved sleep patterns

Regular physical activity, such as playing tennis, has been linked to better sleep quality. The combination of physical exertion and the mental focus required in tennis can contribute to improved sleep patterns and overall restfulness.
Sunlight exposure

Tennis is an outdoor sport and playing it exposes you to natural sunlight. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and overall well-being. Just remember to use sunscreen to protect your skin.

More Like This

Kit

Book review: Running Through the Dark by Jen Scotney

Kit

Review: Haglofs women’s Spitz Down Hood jacket

Kit

Review: Mammut Crag IN jacket 

Adventure

BAM Bamboo clothing review: 3 tops, pants and bralette

Adventure

Wild swimming Finisterre wetsuits and robe

Adventure

10 things learned on a winter mountain hike of Meall Mór, Easter Ross