At a time when we’re all missing life before social distancing, there’s a place that still feels as good as ever—the tennis court. Luckily, tennis is something you can safely enjoy at the club, now with our new, Phase 3 safety precautions in place. Not only is social distancing practically built into the sport. But it also offers a host of physical and mental benefits to help you get through the long days of lockdown.
Strong body, strong immune system
During the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, immune boosting remedies were a dime a dozen. It seemed like everybody—from social media feeds to the nightly news—was pushing some sort of wellness trend. But experts say that for many of us, getting out and staying active might be the best thing you can do for your health.
After all, It’s no secret that working out boosts your immunity.
Tennis helps you get in the zone
You know that feeling—the racket in your hand, the sun on your face, and a volley that puts you completely in the moment. If you’ve been struggling with anxiety, the blues, or—let’s face it—sheer boredom, tennis could be the remedy.
Playing tennis requires mental focus, toughness, and the ability to readily move on from mistakes, according to sports psychologists and professionals coaches. Plus, socializing safely on the courts gives a much-needed emotional outlet during these difficult times.
But the benefits don’t stop when you leave the courts. A study of more than 10,000 USTA league players found tennis players enjoy better physical, social, and mental health. Not only did they report better health, both mentally and physically, but they were more likely to avoid negative behaviors (like smoking).
Tips for playing it safe on the courts
Even though tennis doesn’t involve direct person-to-person contact, the United States Tennis Association offers several ways to stay safe during play, including:
- Playing doubles? Discuss with your partner how you’ll maintain physical distancing.
- Avoid touching your face during play and after handling a ball, racquet or other equipment. If you do touch your eyes, nose or mouth, wash your hands promptly.
- Pick up balls using your racquet or foot to hit them to your opponent, or to return any that come to you from another court.
- As a reminder, be sure to bring your own equipment.
- Stay at least six feet away from other players when taking a break.
- Walk around opposite ends of the net if you switch sides of the court.
- Avoid the impulse to shake hands, give a high five or a celebratory hug.
- Play with family members (who live in your household) or with individuals who are considered to be low risk.
And, of course, ease back into it. The USTA Medical Advisory Group cautions that a long break makes you susceptible to injury and strongly recommends at least three weeks of conditioning, on the court or off, before competing.
Tennis is the champion of social distancing sports
It’s time to dust off your rackets and tap back into all of the benefits tennis has to offer. Each of our six hard courts and four Har-True clay courts are open seven days a week! And, with our Phase 3 safety protocol, we’re keeping your wellness at the forefront. We’re safeguarding our member’s health with a frequent cleaning regimen in accordance with CDC guidelines, a policy of taking guests’ temperatures upon arrival, and other precautions.