London is embracing tennis more than ever. In fact, according to the U.k. Tennis Association, the sport saw an increase in participation of 50% in 2023. The rising popularity of tennis is not surprising considering the health benefits of playing tennis. People enjoy the face-to-face competition of the game while experiencing positive physical and mental effects.

Playing tennis even appears to extend lifespans.

People who play tennis approximately three hours every week live nine to ten years longer on average.

Here’s how playing tennis adds up to a healthier you.

Health Benefits of Playing Tennis

Did you know, playing just 3 hours of tennis per week can reduce your risk of heart disease by 56%? Or, as a long-term study shows, tennis players add 9.7 years to their lives compared to sedentary individuals?

There are many health benefits of playing tennis that make it an ideal physical activity for anyone at any age.

1.Exercise that is actually fun

According to Sport England, one in every four persons in England gets fewer than 30 minutes of physical exercise every week. This makes it more crucial than ever to find new (and rediscover old) interesting ways to keep active. Tennis checks this box as a great entertaining method to do some exercise without becoming bored – no one enjoys those elliptical machines at the gym! Play singles, doubles or serve practice by yourself. There are several methods for you to break a sweat on the court.

2.It’s great for your mental health

When you play tennis, you are continuously aware of the court’s borders, as well as time and score. This maintains your mind bright and healthy by keeping it focused on what is happening in the current moment. Tennis may help you strengthen your memory by keeping track of different shots or methods utilized during gaming, in addition to being a wonderful stress reliever.

3.Just what the doctor ordered

What better way to get the prescribed 150 minutes of moderate level (or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity) active minutes per week than with one or two weekly sessions on the court? The list of physiological benefits of a rapid tennis match is astonishingly lengthy. In a nutshell, it’s beneficial to your heart, lungs, muscles, and bones. While also enhancing your flexibility, coordination, and balance. All essential components of good health!

4.Tennis is social

One of the best aspects of tennis is how sociable it is. Tennis allows you to spend time with friends, family, and colleagues while also providing numerous opportunities to meet new people.You may enter a competition against other players in your region, or you could play doubles with a nice couple or new recruits at work who want to start a new pastime. There’s no excuse not to get out there and meet new people!

5.Age is really just a number

Tennis may be enjoyed by individuals of all ages; you don’t have to be young and healthy to enjoy it. Even if you are older or less active than your opponent, tennis is one of those games that you can enjoy and receive the health advantages of without becoming a serious tennis junkie!

6.Feel the burn, reap the benefits

Tennis is an excellent strategy to build muscle and lose weight. Although becoming active isn’t always about reducing weight, you may burn up to 300 calories per hour while playing and it’s a terrific cardio activity if you measure your movement. So, if you’re seeking a productive activity to add to your schedule this year, it’s time to go on the court!

Finally, if you want a wonderful exercise that also has physiological and mental health advantages, tennis is the activity for you. The game may be played at any age and in a variety of ways. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or anybody looking to get some exercise!