The Fundamentals of Tennis

I trust this initial effort of mine in the world of letters will find a place among both novices and experts in the tennis world. I’m striving to interest the student of the game by a somewhat prolonged discussion of match play, which I trust will shed afresh light on the game.

May I turn to the novice at my opening and speak of certain matters which are second nature to the skilled player?

The best tennis equipment isn’t too good for the beginner who seeks really to succeed. It’s a saving finally, as good quality material thus far outlasts poor.

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The Psychology of Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is one of the great essentials of match play. Keenness can only be acquired if the physical, mental, and nervous systems are in tune. Consistent and systematic training is essential to a tournament player.

Regular hours of sleep, and regular, healty food at regular hours are necessary to keep the body at its highest efficiency. Food is particularly important. Eat well, but don’t over-eat, particularly immediately before playing. I believe in a large hearty breakfast on the day of a big match. This should be taken by nine-thirty. A moderate lunch at about one o’clock if playing at three. Don’t eat very rich food at luncheon as it tends to slow you up on the court. Don’t run the risk of indigestion, which is the worst enemy to dear eyesight. Rich, heavy food immediately before retiring is bad, as it is apt to make you “loggy” on the court the next day.

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The Drive In Tennis

The forehand drive is the opening of every offensive in tennis, and, as such, should be most carefully studied. There are certain rules of footwork that apply to all shots. To reach a ball that’s a short distance away, advance the foot that’s away from the shot and thus swing into position to hit. If a ball is too close to the body, retreat the foot closest to the shot and drop the weight back on that, thus, again, being in position for the stroke. When hurried, and it is not possible to change the foot position, throw the weight on the foot closest to the ball.

The receiver should always await the service facing the net, but once the serve is started on the way to court, the receiver should at once attain the position to receive it with the body at right angles to the net.

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