By Marcus J. Hurtig, Owner, OZ Tennis Academy
With the fall season is in the books, we have moved toward Mixed season. January is around the corner. Yes, it will be chilly, but the information below will help you overcome those cold days and brisk weather.
Fresh stringing
With the temps going down, get your racquet strung slightly differently. Drop the tension a little to get more on your ball. This time of year, the ball can feel like a rock. By dropping the tension, this will give your ball a little more on it.
Accessories
It’s difficult to play tennis while wearing gloves. As an alternative, I like to keep hand warmers in my pockets; the blood flow helps and my racquet doesn’t feel so hard to maneuver. Holding on to it is harder in the cold so this will help.
Clothing
For both the guys and girls, playing in spandex or tights underneath your shorts/skirt will help your leg muscles stay warm and prevent muscle pull or injuries.
Warm up
Get a better warm up in than usual. Jogging and stretching are great options.
Show up early and hit some balls with teammates so you aren’t going in cold. This will help you get off to a better start and you’ll be ready to perform.
Balls
Make sure to use new balls. Older balls in the cold are so tough on the shoulder/elbow. This is injury prevention; take it seriously! No matter what your skill level is, use new balls — and even open a new can for the third set if you go that far.
These tips above will get you into the best position to secure a win for your team.
Marcus Hurtig is an ALTA ambassador, AA1 Captain (ITA Atlanta), Doubles specialist, TCAV (Level 1/2/3), and owner/operator of OZ Tennis Academy.
