Check out the Now Available Audio Versions of Frank’s Books: Click Here
QUESTION: How will improved fitness accelerate my child’s game?
Frank: First, let me remind you that The Tennis Parent’s Bible isn’t an Off-Court Fitness Manuel, but because fitness is such an integral component to developing athletic royalty, it is critical we cover the basics. Fitness training should begin as soon as an athlete enters the competitive stages of the game. If finances are an issue and weekly sessions with a trainer is not feasible, consider paying a good trainer to devise a detailed plan you and your athlete can follow.
So how does fitness improve tennis success?
Fitness training accelerates a player’s physical, mental and emotional performance. When an athlete gets fatigued their movement gets sloppy, their technique is off and unforced errors begin to increase. Poor decision making and negative emotions set in.
Unfit players typically do not perform their rituals, they do not spot tendencies, and they do not manage their mistakes. Poor physical fitness manifests in mental and emotional breakdowns. For instance, most juniors go for low percentage plays due to the fact that they are too winded to properly execute the appropriate play. So, is physical training linked to the mental side of sports? Absolutely!