Maintaining a proper level of fitness takes work and dedication. An active lifestyle, that includes a regular workout schedule, can help build strong muscles and bones while improving overall health. Physical activity is key to staying in shape, however, doing the same thing over and over again can get a bit boring. If you are tired of spin class or jogging over the same terrain every day, it might be time to consider tennis.
Tennis is Classified as an Exercise Program
Tennis is one of the most popular sports in the world, and one of the best forms of exercise one can take part in. With bouts of high intensity activity interspersed with periods of rest, playing can provide amazing health benefits and improve your physical fitness. Because tennis has health related fitness components that include cardio, stretching, and strength building, it is often recommended as an exercise program.
You don’t necessarily have to play a competitive match to reap the benefits of the game. Simply practicing with a friend on the tennis court will provide your body with the essential exercise it needs. Because every area of your body is involved in playing tennis, you can quickly improve your fitness level, increase muscular endurance, and get yourself in better shape by adding tennis to your workout routine.
What Makes Tennis Good For Your Health
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that all adults should get around 30 minutes per day of moderate physical activity, at least five days per week, in order to stay healthy. Whether you consider yourself a pro, or you are brand new to the sport, tennis is a fantastic way to improve your overall health and a fun way to help reach these fitness goals.
Tennis provides a whole-body workout - you work out your leg muscles as you run across the court, your core is constantly engaged as you keep your balance while you lunge back and forth and from side to side, and you build arm strength with every swing of the racket. Tennis also helps you improve your coordination, flexibility, speed, and agility - something we can all use!
Studies Show the Benefits of Playing Tennis
According to studies compiled by the National Institute of Health (NIH), there is a positive association between regular participation in tennis and positive health benefits. Tennis players are shown to have a lower risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and weight gain. Players also have better overall stamina for everyday activities, improved aerobic and anaerobic fitness, a stronger immune system, and a lower resting heart rate.
Taking part in any physical activity on a regular basis improves blood flow to your brain, organs, and muscles. As you become more physically fit, your body has more available oxygen, meaning you will feel less fatigued and out of breath during daily activities than you otherwise would. Playing tennis provides these benefits, and others, that will help you live a longer and healthier life. On average, people who play tennis for around three hours per week live about nine to ten years longer than sedentary individuals.
Another benefit of playing tennis is that you can expect to build lean muscle, which will increase your metabolism. This, along with the 400 - 600 calories you will burn per hour while playing, will help you lose weight and keep it off. What could be better than that?
Other Benefits of Playing Tennis
Because tennis requires quick thinking and instant decision making, playing helps your body create new connections between your brain and your peripheral nervous system. Tennis is also a preferred choice for physical activity because you can get a wonderful workout no matter your skill level.
Additionally, it is quite impossible to play both sides of the net by yourself, making it the perfect excuse to spend time with friends and meet new people. Lastly, tennis is a sport that can be played indoors or outdoors - making it an all-weather option.
Abbey Springs - Tennis in Fontana
If you’re looking for the perfect place to play tennis on Lake Geneva, WI, check out our membership options here at Abbey Springs. In addition to squeezing in a quick tennis match, you can choose to play golf, pickleball, or simply enjoy a delicious meal, depending on what membership options you select. We invite you to give us a call to learn more today.