Tennis is one of the most popular sports in the world. People of all ages and abilities play it. Tennis can be played as a single or doubles game.
If you are new to tennis, this article will walk you through the basics of the game.
How to Play Tennis
Tennis is played on a rectangular court. The court is divided in half by a net. Players hit a ball back and forth over the net. The game aims to hit the ball over the net and into your opponent’s court, so they can’t return it or make them hit it into the net or out of bounds.
Players score points by winning rallies (a series of hits). A player wins a rally when their opponent cannot return their shot or if their opponent hits the ball out of bounds. The first player to score four points wins the game. Games are typically played to the best of three or five sets.
A set starts with a player serving the ball. The player continues to do until they lose a rally, at which point their opponent gets to help—players alternate who serves first at the start of each set.
The Basics of Equipment
Tennis is played with a racket and ball. Choose a racket that is comfortable for holding and swinging. Rackets vary in size, weight, and strings. The weight should be evenly distributed so the racket feels balanced.
Balls are made of rubber and are filled with air. They come in different sizes, depending on the age and skill level of the players. Tennis balls bounce higher and spin more as they get older and more worn out, so it is essential to choose appropriate balls for the level of play.
Tennis shoes are designed to provide traction and support on the court. They should be comfortable and fit well so you can move quickly around the court.
How to Hold a Racket
There are two common ways to hold a racket: Western grip and Eastern grip.
To hold the racket with a Western grip, place your index knuckle on bevel two (the second angle from the top). Place your index knuckle on bevel three (the third level from the top) for an Eastern grip.
Grips can be customized to suit your playing style. Experiment with different grips to find what works best for you.
The Basics of Tennis Strokes
Tennis has four main strokes: the forehand, the backhand, the serve, and the volley.
Forehand: Hit the ball in front of you with an extended racket arm. Your palm should face down, and your elbow should be close to your body.
Backhand: Hit the ball behind you with your racket arm extended. Your palm should face up, and your elbow should be away from your body.
Serve: Toss the ball into the air and hit it over the net into your opponent’s court. The service is a particular stroke that can only be used when starting a point.
Volley: Hit the ball before it bounces using a quick motion. Volleys are usually used when the ball is close to the net.
Conclusion
Tennis is an excellent sport for people of all ages and abilities. It can be played as a single or doubles game. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, tennis is a fun game to play.