Do you want to participate in a fast-paced, fun, and physically rewarding sport? If so, tennis is a great choice. This sport is enjoyed by millions around the world. And while starting may feel a bit intimidating, anyone can pick up a racket and learn the basics. This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through the essentials — from rules and equipment to techniques and tips — so you can feel confident when you step onto the court.

What You Need to Start Playing 

Before you can play, you’ll need a few essentials:

Tennis Racquet — Choose a beginner-friendly racquet, as it has a larger frame to help you hit the ball more easily. 

Tennis Balls — Opt for pressurized balls for regular play and low-compression balls for younger players and beginners.

Proper Footwear — Wear tennis shoes with good support to help you move quickly and safely on the court. 

Good Clothing — Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics that allow for freedom of movement and a hat or visor to protect your eyes and face from the sun. 

Court Layout and Terminology

Understanding the different parts of a tennis court will help you follow the game and position yourself correctly. 

Baseline — The baseline is the farthest line at the back of the court where you serve from.

Service Box — The service box is the smaller rectangular area on each side of the set where the ball must land. 

Doubles Alley — The doubles alley is the extra strip along the slides used in double matches. 

Net — The net stretches across the middle of the court and stands three feet high in the center. 

Understanding the Rules of Tennis

Tennis can be played in singles (one-on-one) or doubles (two-on-two). The goal is to hit the ball over the net onto your opponent’s court without them being able to hit it back over. 

Basic rules include:

Serving — The player serving must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball diagonally into the opponent’s service box.

Returning — The player returning the ball must let it bounce once before hitting back over the net. 

Rally — Players continue hitting the ball back and forth until one player fails to return it over the net or in bounds. 

Scoring in Tennis

Tennis uses a unique scoring system:

Zero Points — A zero point is referred to as a “love.”

One Point — 15

Two Points — 30

Three Points — 40 

Deuce — If both players reach 40, it’s called deuce. A player must then win two consecutive points to win the game.

Set — The first player to win six games with at least a two-game lead wins a set.

Matches — Matches are typically best of three or best of five. 

Basic Techniques to Practice

Footwork — Agility and forwork are essential for getting into position to hit the ball effectively. Practice footwork drills like shuffling, hopping, and moving laterally. 

Serving — To master serving, begin behind the baseline, toss the ball in the air, and hit it over the net into the diagonal service box. Work on both power and accuracy.

Forehand and Backhand Strokes —  A forehand stroke uses your dominant hand on the same side of your body, and a backhand can be single or double-handed on the opposite side.  Focus on delivering a smooth swing from low to high. Finishing over your opposite shoulder. Pay attention to your contact point, ensuring it’s in front of your body. 

Lobs and Overheads — A volley involves hitting the ball before it bounces, usually near the net, and an overhead is a powerful shot used when the ball is lobbed over your head. Practice both these hits to improve your overall game.

Tips for Beginners

Start Slow — Don’t worry about winning points, focus on improving your technique and keeping the ball in play. It’s easy to get discouraged, but remember that improvement takes time, and you will get better. 

Work on Your Mental Game — Work on your focus, concentration, and ability to handle pressure during practice and matches. 

Have Fun — Tennis should be enjoyable, so make sure you have fun and socialize with other players. 

Consider Lessons — A coach or group clinic can teach you proper form and strategy.

Tennis — A Fun Game for Everyone 

Tennis is more than just a sport — it’s a fun and rewarding way to stay active, challenge yourself, and even make new friends. Whether you want to learn how to play to stay fit, indulge your competitive side, or just have fun, learning and mastering the basics can give you a lifelong hobby that will keep you healthy and strong.