Stepping onto the Tennis Court at 44
Like many things in life, starting a new activity can be daunting at first. Today was my first tennis lesson, and at 44 years old, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Sure, I’d hit a few balls back in the day, but formal training? That was a whole new ball game.
Here’s the thing: I’ve learned a pattern when picking up new skills. There’s a struggle at the beginning, then things get smoother, followed by a plateau. But with dedicated practice, improvement happens. From swimming to public speaking, I’ve witnessed this cycle time and again. This realization takes the pressure off — I know what to expect.
So, with a mix of excitement and determination, I signed up for Saturday morning tennis lessons. My fitness could definitely use a boost, and who knows, maybe I’ll even develop a new passion for the sport!
My first lesson was a revelation. Here are some key takeaways:
- Forehand Finesse: I thought I had a decent forehand from my casual playing days. Turns out, there’s a lot more to it than just swinging the racket. My coach showed me the proper grip, stance, and follow-through — a complete game-changer! Now I understand why my shots lacked consistency. When he threw the ball for me to hit, I wondered why he is throwing so low. I realized hitting a low ball properly was more difficult than the one which bounces high…
