Beginner training plan
Your first lessonFor a first lesson with a tennis beginner, the key is to make it fun, engaging, and confidence-boosting while introducing the basic fundamentals. Here’s how I’d structure it:
1. Warm-up & Introduction (5-10 min)
• Get to know the student: Ask about their sports background, experience with racquet sports, and any injuries.
• Light dynamic warm-up: Jogging, side steps, arm circles, and some coordination exercises.
2. Hand-Eye Coordination Drills (10 min)
• Bouncing the ball on the racquet and the ground.
• Toss-and-catch drills to develop timing and feel.
• Mini-tennis (short-court rally) to get comfortable with contact.
3. Basic Stroke Fundamentals (15 min)
• Grip Introduction: Start with the basic grip for forehand (Eastern or semi-Western) and backhand.
• Swing Path: Show a simple low-to-high motion for topspin.
• Shadow Swings: Practice without the ball first, focusing on technique.
• Drop Hit Drill: Have them drop a ball and hit it over the net to develop a feel for the shot.
4. Basic Footwork & Movement (10 min)
• Simple positioning drills, like stepping into the shot.
• Moving to the ball and recovering to a ready position.
5. Rally & Fun Games (15 min)
• Controlled feeding: You toss the ball, and they return.
• Short-court rallies: Encouraging consistency and control.
• Fun target games to build confidence.
6. Recap & Homework (5 min)
• Review what they learned and highlight one key takeaway.
• Give a simple practice drill (like bouncing the ball on the racquet at home).
• End on a positive note, ensuring they’re excited for the next lesson.
Lesson 11+Lesson 11-15: Refinement & Match Play Focus
Lesson 11: Advanced Serve & Return
• Serve placement & spin variation.
• Return aggression & consistency drills.
Lesson 12: Net Play & Reaction Drills
• Fast volleys, touch shots, and overhead control.
• Doubles-specific movement at the net.
Lesson 13: Tactical Baseline Play
• Constructing points with patterns (crosscourt exchanges, change of direction).
• Mixing defense & attack in rallies.
Lesson 14: Match Play Situations
• Playing under pressure (break points, set points).
• Tiebreakers & strategy adjustments.
Lesson 15: Full Match with Coaching
• Supervised set play with live feedback.
• Post-match analysis & improvement plan.
