I’ve always wanted to try tennis, and have finally taken the dive to pick it up these past couple months! As a beginner, having the right equipment and gear can significantly enhance your learning experience and performance on the court. In this guide, I’ll walk you through these tennis beginner must-haves for any tennis newbie, ensuring you start your game on the right foot.
1. Quality Tennis Racquet
As a beginner, opt for a lightweight racquet with a larger head size and a larger sweet spot. This design provides more forgiveness for off-center shots and helps you generate power more easily. You also need to be conscious of the grip size – this was a mistake I made in the beginning! I use the Wilson XP 1 tennis racket with a grip size of 4 1/8″. I love the sleek design and it’s a lot more comfortable than the racket I started out with.
2. Comfortable Tennis Shoes
As you may know, I was a runner in my past, and proper footwear is essential for preventing injuries and optimizing your performance in any sport. Investing in a pair of tennis shoes with good cushioning, stability, and traction is so important and makes a huge difference. Look for shoes specifically designed for tennis, as they offer the necessary support for the quick lateral movements and frequent stops and starts inherent in the game. I use the New Balance Women’s 696 V5 Hard Court Tennis Shoes and LOVE them. Cute and functional.
3. Tennis Balls
You can’t play tennis without tennis balls! Since I take lessons, my coach provides balls for practice, but having a set of your own allows you to practice anytime, anywhere. Opt for high-quality tennis balls suitable for your playing surface (hard court, clay court, or grass court) to ensure consistency in bounce and durability. I got a bag at target for less than $15!
4. Comfortable Clothing
Choose breathable, moisture-wicking clothing that allows you to move freely on the court. Look for tennis-specific apparel made from performance fabrics that keep you cool and dry during intense rallies. Don’t forget a comfortable, sweat-absorbing headband or hat to keep the sweat out of your eyes during practice.
5. Tennis Bag
Keep your gear organized and protected with a dedicated tennis bag. Look for a bag with multiple compartments to store your racquet, shoes, balls, and other accessories separately. Consider the size of the bag based on your needs, whether you’re heading to practice sessions or tournaments. I use this one from Amazon!
6. Sunscreen and Hydration
Tennis is a physically demanding sport played outdoors, so don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. I’ve been loving Vacation Sunscreen – it’s both moisturizing and smells amazing. Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle to every practice or match and replenish electrolytes with sports drinks during prolonged play sessions. Liquid IV has been a great tasting option that keeps me hydrated all practice long.
Equipped with these essential tennis beginner must-haves, you’re ready to step onto the court with confidence and start honing your skills. Remember, consistent practice, dedication, and a positive attitude are key to improving your game over time. So grab your racquet, lace up your shoes, and get ready to serve up some fun on the tennis court – game on!
