A group exercise class to jump start your tennis game
For a fitter body to match their tennis goals, tennis enthusiasts have been turning to cardio tennis -- a group exercise class that combines tennis drills, some coaching and 40 minutes of constant motion -- to take their game to the next level.
Like other group exercise classes, cardio tennis adds a social element to a strong workout.
"The network of people they can play with really increases," said Chris Chopra, assistant tennis professional at the Indiana University Tennis Center. "They know they're going to have a good workout and a good time, finding people with similar skill levels."
Chopra said the hour-long class usually begins with a 10-minute warm-up that includes dynamic stretches, shuffling, the grapevine and other movements designed to get the heart pumping faster. Then for 40 minutes, participants are in constant motion, performing fast-paced agility drills to improve footwork, jumping rope and doing sit-ups and other strengthening exercises.
Participants often participate in fast-paced point play, which involves playing an opponent or doubles for one point and then quickly moving on to more drills. Chopra says the class ends with a 10-minute cool down, often involving easy volleys or practice serving, and then stretching. The class is suitable for all ages and abilities but requires that participants have some experience playing tennis.
"The program is designed to get people back into the game -- or started, " Chopra said.
Chopra is certified by the United States Professional Tennis Association as a tennis teaching professional.
To read more articles from the Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Studies in the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, visit http://newsinfo.iu.edu/cat/page/normal/359.html.
