Tennis has been scientifically proven to be one of the healthiest activities in which you can participate, according to Dr. Jack Groppel, the co-founder of the Johnson & Johnson Human Performance Institute.

Here are a few good reasons why you should consider playing tennis regularly.

PHYSICAL BENEFITS

• Competitive tennis burns more calories than aerobics, inline skating or cycling.

• Tennis also improves one’s anaerobic fitness because short, intense bursts of activity are followed by rest, which helps muscles use oxygen efficiently.

• One’s reaction time, ability to accelerate, speed, coordination, agility dynamic balance, and bone strength and eye-hand coordination are all improved when playing tennis.

MENTAL BENEFITS

• When compared to other athletes and non-athletes, tennis players scored higher in vigor, optimism and self-esteem, and lower in depression, anger, confusion, anxiety and tension.

• Tennis players develop discipline, a work ethic and problem solving. They also learn how to manage stress, accept responsibility and recover from mistakes quickly.

• Tennis is known for its social environment. Players develop communication and social skills, learn sportsmanship and teamwork, and experience feelings of employment and healthy competition.

ANTI-AGING BENEFITS

• According to studies, those who play tennis three hours a week, at a moderate intensity, cut their risk of death in half from any cause. In addition, it may also generate new connections between nerves in the brain, promoting a lifetime of continuing development of the brain.

Tennis is truly a sport for a lifetime!

Originally from PRO Pulse September-October 2016