Breathe Your Way to Better Tennis

Surprising as is may sound; we play our best tennis when our body is relaxed! When we are tense, our muscles are pre-occupied and in use and cannot respond or move as quickly as when we are relaxed. Using the fact that tension and relaxation are opposites and cannot occur simultaneously, we can create a relaxed state to ward off tension and anxiety – both of which can destroy a game! Simple breathing is one of the best ways to relax. It is easy to learn and can be practiced anywhere. Once mastered, you can use breathing to play better tennis. Follow these simple steps:

Hold your hand on your chest and breathe in through your nose. As you breathe in, feel your chest expand. Breathe out through your mouth. This may take a few tries, but it will soon happen. Pay attention to make sure your shoulders are not rising.

Once you have mastered step 1, lower your hand to the middle of your chest and breathe in again, this time noticing an expansion of your lower chest. Again, breathe out through your mouth.

Now, lower your hand to your abdomen and breathe in, watching for your stomach to expand.

This "Step" breathing can be practiced anywhere such as in the car, at as desk, etc. Once your have worked through step 3, practice using deep breathing during practice sessions to relax between points, before a serve, or during change-overs. With a little bit of practice, you will soon be able to breathe your way to relaxation and quicker movements on the court!