Tennis demands a player’s full attention. Needing to follow the ball, anticipate your opponents’ moves, and set yourself up to score all at once leaves little room for distractions. Here are three ways to stay focused during a tennis match and improve your game.
Move Past Previous Plays
One of the biggest distractions you can face during a tennis match doesn’t come from off the court. Shots that didn’t land where you wanted them to or a few bad serves weigh on your mind through the game. Though easier said than done, it’s important to adopt a new mindset that redirects your attention to the next hit, next movement, and next play. While there is plenty to learn from mistakes, save analysis for after the match and keep moving forward.
Work Towards Incremental Goals
Instead of focusing on previous plays, set and work towards incremental goals throughout the match. By focusing on small goals, such as moving your opponent to another area of the court or gaining more confidence in your next hit, players can stay focused on aspects of the match as they happen. Incremental goals are also fantastic motivational devices that boost a player’s mood and drive to win as they achieve them.
Give Your Mind a Break
It’s important to understand that keeping your head in that moment is much easier when you give yourself time to process frustrations by briefly stepping away from the match. Take full advantage of breaks, using them not just as a chance to hydrate and catch your breath, but to clear your head as well. Sitting down to consider how to improve plays, find patterns in your opponent’s style, or simply forget about the match until the break ends allows you to focus more when you return to the game.
Providing an area for rest and a chance to refocus shouldn’t be an afterthought at your facility. Whether you are setting up courts for schools, local communities, or for tournament play, setting up a court that lets players make the most of their matches is essential. Our team at All Star Tennis Supply is proud to offer the high-quality equipment you need, from court maintenance tools that allow for smoother play to comfortable tennis court benches that help your players stay focused during a tennis match.