Are you interested in playing the lifelong sport of tennis? It’s a sport that offers endless opportunities for growth and enjoyment, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your game. This guide outlines essential steps to get started in tennis, from taking lessons and practicing drills to playing matches with players of similar skill levels.

1. Start with Tennis Lessons in Chicago

The quickest way to learn tennis is by taking private or group tennis lessons for beginners.

Find a Qualified Instructor

To lay a strong foundation, seek out a qualified tennis instructor or coach who can guide you through the basics and beyond. Beginner tennis lessons in Lincoln Park, Chicago are typically offered at local tennis or health clubs, such as Lakeshore Sport & Fitness.

Benefits of Lessons

Taking lessons from a knowledgeable instructor provides invaluable insights into proper technique, footwork, strategy, and rules of the game. Personalized feedback helps correct errors early on and accelerates your learning curve. Group lessons also offer a supportive environment to connect with fellow beginners.

2. Practice Essential Drills

Practice makes perfect. While tennis lessons will help you establish the foundation for fundamental skills, it’s important to continuously practice what you learn. The tennis ball machine is a great resource to utilize when you want to practice certain elements of your game outside of match play.

Master the Fundamentals

Dedicate time to mastering fundamental strokes like the forehand, backhand, serve, and volley. Focus on grip, stance, swing mechanics, and follow-through.

Incorporate Footwork Drills

Good footwork is essential for efficient movement on the court. Practice agility drills, lateral movements, and quick changes in direction to enhance your mobility and positioning during play.

Develop Consistency and Control

Work on consistency by hitting the ball over the net consistently, aiming for specific targets on the court. As you gain proficiency, focus on controlling the trajectory, depth, and spin of your shots.

3. Play Matches with Similar Skill Levels

The National Tennis Rating Program (NTRP) serves as a standardized method for evaluating tennis players’ skill levels in the United States. An NTRP Rating is a numerical indicator of tennis-playing ability, from 1.5 (beginner) through 7.0 (touring pro), which aligns with a set of general characteristics that break down the skills and abilities of each level, in 0.5 increments. This makes it easier to find players of your similar skill level to play against.

Find Playing Opportunities

By joining a tennis or health club, you’ll become part of a vast tennis network, making it easier to find opponents that have a similar tennis rating as you. Utilize the club’s resources for regular match play. Participate in organized events or social gatherings for easily accessible recreational or competitive play.

Benefits of Match Play

Playing matches allows you to apply the skills learned in lessons and drills in a competitive setting. Facing opponents of similar abilities challenges you to adapt, strategize, and develop your game further.

Embrace the Learning Process

Approach matches with a growth mindset, focusing on learning from each experience rather than fixating on outcomes. Analyze your performance, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for future matches.

Getting started in tennis is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for growth, challenge, and enjoyment. By taking lessons, practicing essential drills, and playing matches with players of similar skill levels, you’ll lay a solid foundation for improvement and success on the court. Remember to stay patient, stay dedicated to your practice regimen, and most importantly, have fun along the way. Whether you aspire to compete competitively or simply enjoy the sport recreationally, tennis offers a fulfilling and rewarding experience for players of all ages and abilities.

Get started with tennis lessons, drills, and match play at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness!

Adult Tennis in Lincoln Park