For many adults, tennis was once a major part of life. Maybe you played in high school, competed on a college team, took lessons as a child, or simply enjoyed weekend matches with friends.
Then life happened.
Careers, family commitments, injuries, and busy schedules often push tennis to the background. Before you know it, a decade or more has passed since you last stepped on a court.
The good news? It’s never too late to come back.
In fact, many returning players discover that tennis is just as enjoyable as they remember, and often more rewarding than ever before.
Start with Realistic Expectations
One of the biggest mistakes returning players make is expecting to perform exactly as they did years ago.
You may remember serving harder, moving faster, or playing at a higher level. While those skills and memories are still there, your body may need some time to catch up.
Instead of focusing on where you used to be, focus on where you are today and enjoy the process of rebuilding your game.
Remember: tennis is a lifelong sport. The goal isn’t perfection on day one…it’s steady improvement and enjoyment.
Ease Back Into Physical Activity
Even if you’re generally active, tennis places unique demands on the body.
The sport requires:
- Quick changes of direction
- Explosive movement
- Rotational power
- Balance and coordination
- Endurance over extended periods
Before jumping into competitive matches, spend a few weeks rebuilding your fitness through:
- Walking or light jogging
- Flexibility and mobility exercises
- Core strengthening
- Light tennis drills and hitting sessions
Taking a gradual approach can help reduce the risk of injury and soreness.
Don’t Worry About Technique Right Away
Many returning players become frustrated because their strokes don’t immediately look or feel the way they remember.
That’s perfectly normal.
Timing is often the first thing to disappear after a long layoff, but it also tends to return fairly quickly with consistent practice.
Focus on:
- Making clean contact
- Finding a comfortable rhythm
- Moving your feet
- Keeping rallies going
The finer technical details can be refined over time.
Consider Joining a Group Clinic
One of the best ways to return to tennis is through a structured group clinic.
Clinics provide:
- Professional coaching
- Organized drills
- Opportunities to hit a lot of balls
- Players of similar ability levels
- A fun and social atmosphere
Many returning players find that clinics help them regain confidence faster than simply trying to play matches immediately.
You’ll improve your skills while meeting other players who share similar goals.
Refresh Your Doubles Game
For many adults returning to tennis, doubles is the perfect place to start.
Doubles offers:
- Less court to cover
- More strategic play
- A social environment
- Lower physical demands than singles
It’s also one of the quickest ways to become involved in local tennis communities, leagues, and social events.
Update Your Equipment
If your racquet has been sitting in a closet for 10 or 15 years, it may be time for an upgrade.
Modern racquets often provide:
- Improved comfort
- Better power and control
- Reduced vibration
- Larger sweet spots
Likewise, new tennis shoes can improve comfort, stability, and confidence on the court.
You don’t necessarily need the latest equipment, but using gear that fits your game can make returning to tennis more enjoyable.
Focus on Fun and Consistency
The players who successfully return to tennis aren’t necessarily the most talented, they’re the most consistent.
Try to:
- Play regularly
- Take lessons or clinics
- Practice with friends
- Set small improvement goals
Most importantly, remember why you enjoyed tennis in the first place.
Whether it’s the competition, exercise, social connections, or simply spending time outdoors, reconnecting with those reasons can make your return even more rewarding.
Why Now Is a Great Time to Return
Tennis continues to grow in popularity across all age groups. Facilities, instructional programs, and social playing opportunities have never been more accessible.
Whether you’ve been away from the game for 10 years, 20 years, or even longer, there’s a place for you on the court.
At Van Der Meer Tennis, we regularly welcome players who are returning after long breaks from the game. Through clinics, lessons, and structured programs, we help adults rebuild their skills, gain confidence, and rediscover their love for tennis. View our upcoming adult tennis clinic schedule: https://vandermeertennis.com/view-the-complete-adult-tennis-schedule/
You may be surprised by how quickly the game comes back, and how much fun it is to play again.