People call tennis the “sport of a lifetime” because players can keep going well into their 70s and 80s, if not further.
Tennis might be a game of concentration and endurance, but it’s also a lot of fun and therefore appealing to everyone.
One of the best ways to get started with tennis or take your skills to the next level is with senior tennis camps. These camps let you practice your skills and learn from professional instructors.
Training camps can be taxing, so here are our tips on how to last through senior tennis camps.
1. Choose the Right Level
Some tennis camps cater to all skill levels, while others focus on teaching beginners or pro players. A training camp is somewhere you go to learn from professionals in a positive learning environment. If you are starting out with tennis, you should avoid signing up for an advanced class that will push you to limits you don’t have.
Try to find a camp that caters to your skill level. Some camps have special equipment and lessons for beginner players, such as smaller classes, smaller courts, and balls that don’t move as fast. Your training should revolve around you so that you learn and grow while at the camp.
An all-skill-level camp is catered to all players, no matter their ability. The camp counselors evaluate new players on the first day and place them into appropriate groups. These camps include working on fundamentals and combine playing matches with doing drills.
Tournament training camps are for players looking to prepare for competition. They are also suited for people thinking about entering competitions who want to test if they are at the tournament level. These camps are more intense and focus on things such as strategy and mental readiness, as well as the actual game of tennis.
2. Look for Lessons that Go Beyond the Court
Tennis is a great physical workout, but the benefits of playing go beyond the court. Look for a camp that teaches you important lessons that help you in your regular life. Playing tennis teaches you how to play with integrity, how to be a good sport whether you win or lose, how to prepare yourself mentally, and how to set – and achieve – goals.
You’d be surprised at how much tennis can teach you about life. There’s always more to learn, no matter how old you get.
3. Check the Camp Atmosphere
One way to survive a senior tennis camp is to find a camp that’s easy to survive. Check the atmosphere at the camp before signing up if you can. Make sure that people are paired up appropriately. It helps to play against people of a similar age and skill level to you. It also makes it easier to make friends with others.
See what the coaches are teaching and how they do it. Are they teaching things that matter to you? Do they coach in a style that resonates with you? You want to choose a camp that builds confidence, promotes healthy competition and work ethic, and is – above all – fun.
4. Pick an Appropriate Location
The location is an important consideration when picking a tennis camp. Do you want to stay somewhere close to home? Some people like to treat tennis camps as something of a vacation. Why not choose a camp in a tourist spot and stay for another week? Knowing you have a holiday and a relaxing time coming after the camp can make it easier to stay motivated.
5. Consider an Overnight Camp
Tennis camps come in day camps and overnight camps. An overnight camp might be the best choice for an older person. Overnight camps typically run during the week, from Sunday through Friday. These camps are an excellent way to immerse yourself in tennis, make new friends, and get a complete experience.
Overnight camps have a more extensive curriculum as there’s more time to cover everything. These camps combine expert instruction with match play and off-court activities. Some camps have team competitions and other themed activities for a touch of extra fun.
Overnight camps are also more comfortable for older people. Rather than having to wake up early, drive to the center, spend all day playing tennis, and then drive home, everything happens at a more leisurely pace.
6. Prepare Properly
The best way to survive camp – and get the most out of your time there – is to show up prepared. Camp begins at home. It helps to have a bit of experience and a minimum fitness level before attending camp. Tennis campers should be able to play tennis for a few hours per day a few times a week to ensure they have the stamina to comfortably play as much as they will at camp.
It would also help if you’ve played competitive matches before, but this isn’t necessary. You’ll be playing games at camp, so it’s good to be prepared for that by having some experience. Don’t forget that you’re going to camp to learn how to play, however. You’ll have more than enough match experience by the time you leave.
It helps to be prepared for camp because it ensures you enjoy your time at camp and get the most out of it. Tennis camps are an excellent environment for learning and developing your tennis game, making new friends, and maybe even learning a thing or two about life along the way. Preparing for camp helps you avoid potential injuries and know what to expect from your time there.
Final Thoughts
Senior tennis camps are a wonderful experience for senior tennis players. Please make sure you pack correctly, find a camp that suits your needs, and make preparations before leaving for camp. Take things at your own pace. Don’t forget to have fun and make friends while you’re there!