Watching Serena Williams or Roger Federer competing is a thing of beauty – an athleticism born of desire, and of course, practice. It’s mesmerizing – two opponents swatting a tennis ball back and forth, forcing the other to cover every inch of court, while landing their shots with sharpshooter precision.
If you’ve ever envisioned yourself playing tennis at this level – or just friendly competition and exercise, playing tennis at the Village Health Clubs is a terrific way to learn this “sport of a lifetime.” Our pros can advise on which racquet best suits your needs, teach proper stroke technique, footwork (and shoes), ball toss – and etiquette (yes, it still exists).
If you’re ready to learn a new sport, up your game, improve your cardio, correct some bad habits, or simply watch some local players compete, there are lots of ways to get involved.
The Baseline
If you’re a beginner, why not start at the beginning? The Village Clubs offers a 4-week series of classes called Try Tennis Today, available at all Village Clubs Tennis Centers. Whether you’ve never held a racquet, or simply need a remedial primer on the basics, this class will teach you the fundamentals – equipment, rules and regulations, proper stroke, and footwork techniques. Upon completion, graduate to league play, or further improve your skills with another 4-week class.
Oh, Solo Mio
If a group situation intimidates you, consider private tennis lessons – or bring your budding tennis partner for semi-private tennis lessons. Your pro will get you hitting balls to evaluate your game, and create a plan for improvement while practicing on our pristine post-tension courts. Contact your club’s Tennis Pro for more information.
Hit Me With Your Best Shot
Look at Serena Williams’ baseline strokes – fluid, accurate, POWERFUL. That comes from years of hitting balls, but since you’re just now getting started, consider our Ball Machine Clinics. Maximize your court time with a Village tennis pro evaluating your stroke. Offered at Camelback Village nestled next to Camelback Mountain, DC Ranch Village located in north Scottsdale, and at Ocotillo Village on their lakeside courts, members not only love these clinics for improving their game, but for expanding their network of tennis players in a fun, friendly environment.
The Way to Wimbledon – Heart Work
Get your heart pumping! Add another form of cardio to your weekly workout with Cardio Tennis. A free group class offered 4–5 times per week, Cardio Tennis is a great way to really get your heart pumping, and meet other tennis players in a fun and social environment. Get fit, make friends. What’s not to like?
Get in the Swing
Just getting out on a tennis court and hitting balls is the most elemental way to start learning how to play tennis. Reserve a court, grab your racquet, a bucket of balls and a friend, and get in the swing of things at your own pace. Court reservations are part of your membership – so take advantage of it!
Courtside
Tennis is a dynamic game to play – and watch! Come out to any of our courts at any time of day, and you’re likely to find Village Club’s local talent playing and practicing. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy Women’s Interclub play during the week, or Men’s on the weekends. Tennis is a social sport, and you’re sure to meet other enthusiasts. Learn by observing other players in friendly competition.
When you’re ready to join the fun, we’re ready to get you out on the courts!
About the Author:
Will White is the Director of Tennis and Head Tennis Pro at Camelback Village Racquet & Health Club. He can be contacted at: wwhite@dmbclubs.com.
