Strength training program for tennis players

When you are strength training to enhance your tennis game, the goal is to condition the muscles and joints properly for the unique demands that the sport. You should look to perform these exercises 3 times per week to allow for rest time between workouts.

This program is designed to deliver total body development while addressing areas that are placed under repetitive stress, beginning with the shoulders.  For maximum results, do 3 sets of 10 repetitions for each of these exercises.

SHOULDER:

The next few exercises are designed to strengthen the rotator cuff which is one of the most common tennis related injuries.

Next we will discuss strengthening for the elbow. Weak arm muscles and improper form can lead to Tennis elbow. To strengthen the muscles involved and protect this joint, the following exercises are recommended:

ELBOW:

Last but not least is the wrist.  It can be easy to forget about the importance of strengthening the wrists, but having optimal functionality here will make a big difference in your game. To strengthen the muscles involved and protect this joint, the following exercises are recommended:

WRIST:

Remember to perform each exercise with both arms, not just your playing arm.  A balanced physique will ensure proper form and keep you in optimal shape for your next match.

Author: Kevin Murray

Kevin graduated from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland with an honours degree in Physiotherapy with Clinical Distinction in 2009. He is an experienced physiotherapist who has worked in a wide variety of settings. He specializes in the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of muscular, joint and neurological injuries. Patient safety, comfort and satisfaction are always his highest priorities.

During his time practicing, he has been fortunate to meet and work with athletes of all backgrounds, from club-level to international and Olympic standard. He is constantly striving to further himself as a physiotherapist by keeping up-to-date with emerging literature regarding evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation. During his practice, he uses a variety of treatment methods and techniques, always with the aim of providing the best outcomes for his patients in the shortest space of time.

Kevin’s great love for sports arose from years of swimming competitively at both the provincial and national level in Ireland. He nurtures his sports enthusiasm by swimming, going to the gym, practicing yoga and playing golf to continually improve his single-figure handicap. In his free time, Kevin enjoys spending time at the beach with his family and chocolate lab, Hershey.