Serving Up Tennis Fitness - Friday, June 28
Since the Wimbledon tennis championships began in 1877, the game has drawn spectators to admire athletic endurance and agility. Take fitness inspiration from the on-court competition, even if you’ve never picked up a racquet. Start your rally:
Play on grass. Wimbledon’s famous finely manicured grass courts help cushion joint impact. You might try your next walk or run on grass. Moving over bumpy natural surfaces can help your balance, but tread carefully on uneven ground.
Train like a ball boy or girl. Have a partner roll a tennis ball across a flat surface as you sprint to grab it, as the young sideline-minders do for hours during the tournament. Shuttle runs use a similar motion, building stamina and hand-eye coordination.
Use doubles strategy. You’ll get more joy with a health partner. Join a walking group or group fitness class. Try a friendly competition; you’ll push yourself a little harder when someone else is at your side.
How will you get out and play today?