11/4/24 Your First Tennis Lesson

For your first lesson I like to go by the KISS principle Keep It Stupidly Simple. The very organized person will have a checklist of many things to do and bring, but really all you need is comfy shoes and clothes, a racquet and you. With me you don’t even really need a racquet as I am happy to let you use one of mine for your first few lessons, to ensure that you don’t waste money buying something that doesn’t suit you.

However, if you feel you need a checklist, the info below is generally regarded by AI (ha ha) as a great list of things to think of, to do and to remember to bring.

Dress for Success

Your clothing and gear can make a big difference in how comfortable and focused you feel during your lesson.

Wear breathable athletic clothing: Choose something that allows free movement, such as a t-shirt, shorts, or athletic leggings.
Pick proper footwear: Tennis shoes with non-marking soles provide the grip and support you’ll need on the court.
Bring the essentials:
- Tennis racket: If you don’t have one, ask your coach if they provide rackets for beginners.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during summer lessons.
- Towel: Keep sweat at bay so you can focus.
- Sunscreen: Protect yourself during outdoor lessons, even on cloudy days.

Get Physically Ready

To avoid injury and play your best, take time to warm up before the lesson begins.

Do some light cardio: A brisk walk or jog for 5–10 minutes will get your blood flowing.
Stretch dynamically: Focus on stretches that target your shoulders, arms, and legs—key muscle groups for tennis.

Being physically prepared will help you move comfortably during drills and games.

Arrive Prepared

First impressions matter, and arriving early gives you time to settle in.

Arrive 10–15 minutes early: This ensures you have time to meet your coach and get familiar with the court.
Communicate your goals: If you want to focus on a specific skill or have long-term goals, let your coach know.
Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about the structure of the lesson or any beginner tips they recommend.

During the Tennis Lesson

Your first lesson will focus on building foundational skills, so keep an open mind and be ready to learn.

Listen carefully: Your coach will explain techniques and demonstrate drills. Pay close attention and ask for clarification if needed.
Focus on form over perfection: Tennis is a game of precision, but no one gets it right on the first try. Concentrate on understanding the movements.
Have fun! Remember, learning a new skill is as much about enjoyment as it is about progress.

After the Tennis Lesson

What you do after the lesson is just as important as what you do during it.

Reflect on what you learned: Take a few minutes to review the techniques and tips your coach shared.
Practice at home: If you have access to a wall or a friend, practice hitting to reinforce what you learned.
Stay consistent: Schedule regular lessons to build on your progress and keep improving.

Conclusion
Starting tennis lessons is the first step toward mastering the game, and preparation makes all the difference. By following this checklist, you’ll arrive on the court ready to learn and make the most of your time with your coach.

Are you ready to take the leap? Book your first lesson with Imogen today and start your journey toward becoming a confident tennis player!

Yours sincerely