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Add tennis to your fitness routine


Cardiotennis.com

 Tennis is one of the fastest growing sports in the US. According to a study by Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA), participation increased by 43% in the last 8 years. During the last year, participation in tennis increased by 9.6%. The reason? A joint effort by the Tennis Industry Association (TIA) and the US Tennis Association (USTA) in promoting the growth of the game. 

One innovative program, developed about four years ago to reinforce interest in long time players and recruit new players, is Cardio Tennis. The idea is to provide players of all skill levels with a high-energy, heart-pumping workout through various drills while improving tennis skills. Cardio Tennis is a great way to stay in shape, lose weight, and enjoy the game of tennis.

Even before this program came about, tennis has always been a perfect way to get a workout without spending hours on the treadmill or lifting weights. In a study done by physician Ralph Paffenbarger of Harvard University School of Public Health, people who play tennis at least three hours a week cut their risk of death from various diseases in half. Moderate to high intensity play can burn tons of calories, reducing cholesterol and blood pressure. Tennis is a full-body workout. Ground strokes and volleys can work your arms and shoulders, while shuffling and sprinting around the court build muscle in your legs. On top of that, rotation through the body’s midsection during strokes and serves can help work the obliques and get rid of those annoying love handles.

Cardio Tennis combines the benefits of tennis with high intensity aerobics so players can get even more out of their workout. Not only that, but the drills are fun and different so players can experience a refreshing change in their fitness routine. Luckily for Chicagoans, there are plenty of places around the city that offer this exciting and energizing program. If players are interested in finding clubs where they can participate in cardio tennis, there are lists available on the official website.

So if you’re tired of spending hours in the gym or running copious miles to stay in shape, look into the benefits of a game of tennis. It’s worth a try, and the results are as rewarding as the journey.

 

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Chicago Tennis Examiner

Vanessa Day is a graduate student studying writing and publishing in Chicago. Originally from Denver, Colorado, she moved to Chi-town a year ago...

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