Tennis Fit Series: Focusing on the Ball
Tennis Fit Series: Focusing on the Ball
Since the day you picked up a racquet, you have been told over and over again to “WATCH THE BALL!” So how do you do that???
In order to see the tennis ball clearly and make contact in the center of your racquet, you must have three systems working together properly. These three systems include:
- vision
- proprioception
- vestibular system
Your vision may be improved by wearing prescription eye glasses or contact lenses while playing. Your proprioception may be improved by performing balancing activities, such as the exercises described in ATP World Tour’s Form & Fitness. But how do you improve the vestibular system???
Watch the video below to find out how to improve your vestibular system and ability to focus on the ball.
Exercise: Lift one leg off the ground while trying to maintain your balance. Hold a tennis ball arms length away from your body in front of you. In this position, focus on the letters on the tennis ball and begin to shake your head back and forth. Your goal is to be able to focus on the letters for 15 seconds while keeping your balance, then repeat on the opposite leg.
If you feel like you are unsteady or losing your balance, than be sure to use a chair or post for support. If at any time you become dizzy or nauseated, stop and consult your physician or healthcare professional.
These exercises are easy to do at home, at the gym, or at the courts. Try incorporating these exercises into your weekly tennis routine and you will find yourself hitting the ball cleaner and with more consistency.
Interested in our other blog entries to help you play better tennis in 2015? See all of them by visiting HERE.
