Playing tennis offers numerous benefits for both mind and body. It enhances hand-eye coordination, balance, and agility. The footwork and upper body movement involved in tennis contribute to staying healthy, fit, and stress-free.

Quick thinking and strategizing during play improve problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

For instance, timing your split-step from the ready position, shifting body weight efficiently, and deciding when to hit cross-court or go for an overhead smash all require mental sharpness.

Social and Teamwork Skills

Dear Lykkers, tennis matches require at least two players, fostering social skills and, in doubles matches, teamwork abilities.

What Equipment Do You Need to Play Tennis?

To play tennis, essential equipment includes a tennis racket, tennis shoes, a tennis ball, and access to a tennis court with a regulation net.

Choosing the Right Gear

The racket should match skill level for optimal handling, while shoes should provide adequate lateral support to avoid ankle injuries. Some clubs may have specific dress codes. Additionally, fabric wristbands or headbands can be used to manage sweat.

What Are the Basic Rules of Tennis?

Even with proper equipment and warm-ups, understanding tennis fundamentals is crucial for a good game.

Keep It Inside the Lines

For singles, serves must land in the opponent’s service box. In doubles, the outer alleys are also in play. Balls touching the lines are considered in.

25 Tennis Shots SO GOOD the Opponent Had to Applaud 👏

Video by Tennis TV

Scoring System

The unique scoring system begins with “love” (0) and progresses to 15, 30, and 40. At 40-40 (deuce), a player must win by two consecutive points.

Avoid Touching the Net

Players lose the point if the net is touched by the body or racket during play.

Hold Onto the Racket

Only the racket may contact the ball. Dropping or throwing the racket results in a lost point.

Follow Bounce Rules

A ball must be hit before it bounces twice. If it touches a player before bouncing, it remains in play.

Win By Two

Games and points must be won by a two-point margin. In case of a 6-6 tie in a set, a tiebreaker determines the winner.

How Does Scoring Work in Tennis?

The scoring system might seem complicated initially but becomes intuitive with practice.

Starting the Game

Each game begins at 0-0 or “love.” The server’s score is always announced first.

Deuce and Ad-Phase

At 40-40 (deuce), a player must gain two consecutive points to win. If the server leads by one point, it’s “ad-in”; if trailing, it’s “ad-out.”

No-Ad Scoring Option

For a faster game, players can agree to no-ad scoring, where 40-40 becomes the game point.

How to Play Tennis

When ready to move from practice to match play, the following steps are essential:

Decide Who Serves First

A coin toss or racket spin can determine the first server.

Alternate Serving Sides

The first serve begins on the right side (deuce side), alternating to the left (ad side) after each point.

Use Your Strengths

Leverage forehand and backhand strokes strategically. Focus on areas of personal expertise to gain an edge.

Switch Sides

Players switch sides after every odd game to maintain fairness, especially in outdoor matches influenced by sun or wind.

Prepare for Tiebreaks

A tied score of 6-6 in a set leads to a tiebreak, played out of seven points, requiring a two-point lead to win.