While tennis is not as high-impact as some other sports, it is played competitively and leisurely by people of all ages. Unfortunately similar to any sport, anyone is susceptible to the risk of injuries. First, let’s go over common tennis injuries: 

• Tennis elbow: The overuse of the muscle that extends and bends the elbow.
• Shoulder injuries: Typically, an injury to the rotator cuff muscle that can often irritate the shoulder tissue.
• Stress fractures: Can occur from training improperly or too much. 
• Muscle strains: Caused by quick, sudden movements.

Before you head to the courts, be sure to educate yourself with these simple tennis injury prevention tips: 

Have the Right Equipment

A professional is your best bet to help you choose the right equipment to perform the best. First, ensure your racket has the correct grip size and string tension to reside stress on your elbow and shoulder. Choose a shoe that is sturdy, lightweight, and has proper ankle support. For extra ankle support, wear two pairs of socks or get special tennis socks with padding. 

Train Properly 

Not only do you have to work hard on the court, but to evaluate your game you need to put in work off the court. Strengthening the muscles you directly use is essential to preventing injuries. Furthermore, it is also important to properly strengthen support muscles. For example, although you mainly use your shoulder and arm to swing, you also use your back, core, and legs. 

Warm Up and Cool Down 

Create a routine of pre and post-game stretches and exercises. Similarly to training properly, a good warmup before a game can help lessen the chance of injury and improve your overall game. A 10 to 15-minute warmup of aerobic exercises and stretching can go a long way. Give yourself the same amount of time to stretch and cool down after your match. 

Take Breaks

Most importantly, listen to your body. Although you may think you have to practice as much as possible to get better, playing too much can make you overexert yourself. Your body needs time to recover. Take plenty of breaks and hydrate. 

Tennis is a fun, competitive sport for any skill level. Learning common tennis injuries and how to prevent them will not only allow you to lower the risk of injury, but can also improve your game for years to come.