The 2024 Wimbledon Championships from the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in London provided sports fans with another thrilling few weeks. It’s difficult to imagine that one of the world’s most popular and celebrated sporting events was brought to its knees by the COVID-19 pandemic just four short years ago.
Now, Wimbledon is back swinging, and this summer’s renewal proved that professional tennis is stronger than ever. The best players attended, and leading TV channels broadcasted the action live across the globe. Fans waited hours for tickets to pack the stands and see the best players in action.
Two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray missed the men’s singles tournament due to injury. The famous Scotsman bid an emotional farewell on Centre Court after exiting the men’s doubles when he and his brother Jamie suffered defeat. The top gambling apps, including California sportsbooks, offer odds on Murray’s return next year, but his retirement looked final.
Andy thanked fans for their support before explaining that his body could no longer cope with the demands of playing Grand Slam tennis. We’ve likely seen the last of Muzza at Wimbledon, but boy, did he give fans plenty to cheer over the years.
Time to get involved
Did you follow Wimbledon 2024 live on television? Perhaps you didn’t miss a match and are now inspired to give tennis a try. Tennis is one of the most popular sports worldwide, played by people of all ages, including young children and pensioners.
It’s energetic, great for your physical fitness, and ideal for making new friends in your community. It’s also great for lots of fun. If you have children who dream of being the next Andy Murray, you can enroll them in a tennis school during their pre-school years. If you’re over 40 and looking for a new hobby, tennis is a great option. But how do you get started, improve, and begin playing?
Technology plays an ever-increasing role in tennis, from development to professional standards. Tech helps improve your swing, keep track of your progress, monitor the speed of your serve, and even help you avoid injury when learning the ropes. But which tech is the best and most affordable for new players looking to improve their game?
Keep reading as we introduce you to what’s available, including the apps you can download to your smartphone in seconds.
Smart rackets
Smart tennis rackets are equipped with sensors that track various aspects of a player’s performance. These rackets can provide data on swing speed, ball impact location, and stroke type. One affordable option is the Babolat Pure Drive Play. This racket integrates sensors into the handle, allowing players to connect to a smartphone app and review detailed statistics about their game. The feedback helps players understand their strengths and areas for improvement, enabling targeted practice sessions.
Sensors
For those who already have a preferred racket, tennis sensor devices like the Zepp Tennis Swing Analyzer or the Sony Smart Tennis Sensor are excellent choices. These small, lightweight devices attach to the butt of any racket and sync with a mobile app to provide real-time data on swing metrics, shot type, and ball speed. These sensors are generally more affordable than buying a smart racket and can be easily transferred between different rackets.
Ball machines
Consistent practice is key to improvement, and ball machines offer the perfect solution for solo practice sessions. The Spinshot Lite Tennis Training Machine is an affordable and portable option. It allows players to practice their strokes without the need for a partner and offers adjustable settings for speed, spin, and feed rate. It helps new players develop consistency and accuracy in their shots.
Training aids
Several affordable training aids can help new tennis players improve specific aspects of their game. The TopspinPro is a popular device that helps players develop the correct technique for generating topspin on their shots. It consists of a mesh screen and a ball mounted on a spring, providing immediate feedback on the stroke path and contact point. Similarly, the Eye Coach helps players improve their focus and timing by simulating the ball’s movement and encouraging proper contact with the racket.
Fitness trackers
Fitness trackers and smartwatches like the Fitbit Charge 4 or the Apple Watch can be valuable tools for tennis players. These devices monitor heart rate, track activity levels, and provide insights into overall fitness. They can also track specific tennis activities, giving players data on calories burned, distance covered, and intensity of their workouts. Maintaining good physical fitness is crucial for tennis, and these trackers help players stay on top of their conditioning.
Apps
Numerous apps are available that cater specifically to tennis players, offering functionalities ranging from video analysis to virtual coaching.
Tennis 24/7: This app provides drills, workout plans, and instructional videos tailored for different skill levels. It offers structured programs to help players systematically improve their game.
TennisPAL: A social app that connects players with local tennis partners and coaches. It also includes features for booking courts and organizing matches.
SwingVision: An AI-powered app that uses a smartphone camera to analyze strokes and provide real-time feedback. It tracks ball speed, shot placement, and rally statistics, helping players fine-tune their technique.
Video analysis
Analyzing one’s gameplay can be incredibly beneficial for improvement. Apps like Coach’s Eye or Hudl Technique allow players to record their practice sessions and matches, then review the footage with tools to slow down, draw annotations, and compare side-by-side with professional players. This visual feedback helps new players see where they can improve their form and strategy.
Rebounders
Tennis rebounders are another excellent tool for solo practice. Devices like the SKLZ Quickster Tennis Rebounder allow players to practice volleys and groundstrokes without needing a partner. The rebounder returns the ball at various angles, helping players develop reflexes and hand-eye coordination. It’s a cost-effective way to get extra reps and improve consistency.
There you have it, everything you need to improve your tennis game in the early days. We hope you enjoyed reading our article and found it both useful and inspiring as you begin your journey.
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