So you have been watching a couple of the Wimbledon games at the bar, and you are totally ready to get in there and show them your moves? Well, everybody starts learning tennis the same way, so let's get you geared up for your first game!
What to Play With
Racket
I think it is common sense that you will need a racket to play tennis, right? There isn't such thing as the best racket, but rather, one that suits you best. Do you have the best aim but not so hot in power? Or do you swing it out with crazy strength but it doesn't always hit the right spot? Or perhaps, it is still too soon to tell? Wilson has a racket selector application on their website, which shows you which racket matches your needs best based on your inputs. However, I would suggest taking your coach with you to get your first racket, because they would know which areas you are strong on, as well as which ones you are weak at. Also, they usually have some sort of sponsorship from equipment companies, so they can get better deals than regular stores. Make sure you get one that is the right size for your grip!
Strings
There are synthetic strings, natural gut strings, and hybrid strings, all of which you can get from most sports shops, who will also help you string it with a specialised machine. As a beginner, synthetic is a good choice, and as you get a bit more control, hybrid gives better power. Babolat has a whole series of strings available, so have a chat with your coach again about which type of strings is most suitable for you. Ask him for some advice as well on what weight your strings should be strung at, because that makes a huge difference on the sweet spot.
Replacement Grip and Overgrip
Grips often have to be replaced due to wear and tear, and some would use overgrip to protect the grip underneath and give the racket a better hold. Grips can be made of different materials, such as towel-like material, to suit some who are allergic to the usual rubber ones. Go to a regular sports shop where you will find a Prince grip to keep in your tennis bag, because you just never know when you might need it. This part of the racket is likely to be one that you need to replace the most, since you are always in physical contact with it, it inevitably get affected by all the germs and sweat from your workout.
Vibration Dampeners
Even if you haven't played tennis before, I am sure you have heard of the tennis elbow. It is caused by when the ball hits the racket, the action gives off so much shock that it gets absorbed by your elbow. One way to lower that is to get a vibration dampener from Tecnifibre. This little bit of rubber does miracles in absorbing the pressure, but make sure you get ones that ties onto your racket sturdily, because I have seen it falling out from the racket when dudes give their 110% on certain shots.
Tennis Balls
How are you planning to play tennis without tennis balls? Get the normal three tennis balls pack from Dunlop, which is good for playing on concrete, grass, or clay. Try not to get the whole bucket ones, because those are training tennis balls, so they ain't so bouncy. You might get rather frustrated with them.
Tennis Bag
Of course you can just shove your gear in any ol' backpack, but look at this beautiful Head tennis bag from the Maria Sharapova series! It has compartments just for your rackets, tennis shoes, tennis balls, and other gizmo, ensuring all your gadgets are safely stowed so you don't need to pack for every game.
What to Wear
Visor
If you are the sweaty sort, then Halo's visor is for you. Their special technique allows the sweat to trickle down from the side, so it won't interfere with your game. Obviously visor is essential during daytime, but it works well at night too, since it holds your fringe in place, and keeps the glare from the tennis lights, which might play tricks with your eyes.
Tennis Wear
Tennis wear is usually white or navy colour, made of rather breathable material for practical purposes. Men usually wear a polo shirt and shorts, while women usually wear a sleeveless polo shirt and skirt, or a full length dress. Stella McCartney has designed a line of tennis gear for Adidas, so why not check it out next time you are in the neighbourhood?
Wristband
Wristband serves more than just a decorative purpose. It is great when you find sweat trickling down your nose during the game and you have nothing on hand to wipe it with. Get a stylish yet practical wristband from Fila. Remember to was it after every game though.
Tennis Shoes
Most beginners start off by playing tennis with running shoes. That, however, is actually the ultimate no-no, because running shoes are more geared for moving forwards and backwards, whereas tennis requires lots of sideways movements, so more than likely you will sprain your ankles in them. Head over to Nike and get your own pair of tennis shoes. They look great both on and off court!
Where to Acquire the Skills
Coaching
Tennis is rather different from badminton. With badminton, everybody at any level can just jump in and play a game, but not everyone can excel in it unless they are trained professionally. However, with tennis, you can't just decide to pick up a racquet and play, because without any training, the tennis balls will be flying in every direction, and frequently outside the court. If you live on the island, call Kane at 95202949 for a lesson at Victoria Park or Quarry Bay Park. If you are on Kowloon side, contact Fit at 92180835 for lessons in Olympic.
Self Practice
Are you jetting in and out of Hong Kong, and don't have the time for regular tennis lessons? Square Hit Tennis offers great solution: with their Wrist Assist, you can practice your strokes, while with their Toss Assist, you can perfect your serve. It is like having a private coach at your disposal 24/7!