Tennis
Now that we’re just about right in the middle of summer, running is not everyone’s favorite activity. Actually it’s not really anyone’s favorite activity this time of year and I suspect tennis is not really either. Now most of you still play during the summer and, just as most of us runners still run we most likely don’t do it in the middle of the day unless of course we are a little crazy or have a death wish.
With tennis, as well running, during the summer it’s all about setting yourself up for physical success during your next match or run. By that I mean if you don’t hydrate and eat well before and during your current activity you won’t be able to recover afterwards to be ready to go again in the next day or two. Your body actually begins recovering during activity. By drinking complex carbohydrate and electrolyte replacement drinks before and during a run, walk or tennis match you will be helping your body adapt to our wonderful hot and humid conditions and actually feel better the next day.
Now that I’ve convinced you that you can drink yourself to a successful summer of tennis, let me now attempt to convince you to start running or walking to help you improve your game. Here are a few reasons to start now rather than wait until fall: 1.It’s really hot so you’ll sweat more and lose more weight, 2.Starting now will make running seem really easy when the temperature cools down, 3.After running in this heat, playing tennis won’t seem as uncomfortable, and finally the extra time that you spend running will allow your spouse more time to bond with your children who are out of school for the summer.
Okay maybe those are not the best reasons to start running or walking during the summer, but they definitely will motivate some. In the first column I mentioned a few ideas regarding getting started and the physical and potential mental benefits that a regular walking or running program will have on your tennis game. In the next few paragraphs I’ll tell you how to actually do it, now even in the hottest months of the year.
Starting slower than you think you should is really the first step. Many of us would describe ourselves as runners or joggers at some point in our lives, but if it’s been more than six months and you’re over 35 you’re starting over. And for those who have never run or walked consistently, well, you are starting. Walk before you run, for a while. Spend 12 weeks building up to 30 minutes of consistent running.
The correct equipment will allow you to be more comfortable, help prevent injuries and even let you enjoy running. It’s not supposed to hurt, I promise. Whether you have pain in your knees, you get blisters on your toes or your thighs chafe really badly, the right gear will make it better. Seek out an expert, just as you do with your tennis equipment, make an investment and get out there and use the stuff.
Running and walking with a group or at least one other person will help keep you motivated. Also, there is something about being accountable to another person or group that keeps us honest. If you know that people are waiting for you, you’re much more likely to pull yourself out of bed to meet them, or better yet invite others to your house for a morning run. There really is nothing more motivating than knowing that if you don’t get up someone will be pounding on your door at 6am waking up the entire world.
Finally, pick a time of day when there are no other distractions, helping to eliminate excuses. Some of you are now saying that there is not one minute a day in which you’re not being pulled in 100 different directions. There is more than a minute-get up earlier if you’re a morning person, go to bed later if you’re a night person. Ok, now I hear you-You really need all the sleep that you’re currently getting. Well if you try for a few months to sleep less and run more, you’ll have more energy, lose lots of weight, look younger and your tennis game will improve so much that you won’t ever think about sleep again.
