With the French Open, Wimbledon, the Olympics and the US Open all on deck, summer 2024 is all about the racquet. Add to that the rise in tennis-style thanks to the success of the movie “Challengers” and the ever-growing popularity of tennis-adjacent sports like padel and pickleball and it seems as though just about everyone is headed for a summer on the court. But the combo of quick moves and high-intensity cardio can also be a recipe for injury. We spoke with Paramount Club Wellness Director Dr. Scott A. Weiss DPT about how to prepare for summer success.
TPC: What should the focus be when getting in shape for a sport like tennis/pickleball?
Dr. Weiss: With these sports there is a lot of lateral motion for the lower body and multi-angle reaching for the upper body. Working on upper body dominant arm flexibility and lower body strength will aid in your performance in these racquet sports.
TPC: What’s most important when it comes to preventing injury?
Dr. Weiss: In preventing injuries for these sports, it is imperative to remember three things: First, to do a cardiovascular warm-up for five minutes in order to break a mild sweat. Second, to stretch the lower and upper body to aid in mobility. And finally, to place extra focus on stretching and loosening up the knee and ankle joints, as these are the most common injuries.
TPC: How are these racquet sports different from others and what should players be aware of when starting to play?
Dr. Weiss: The knee and ankle are common injury sites and special care to make sure they are loose and warm is imperative. During lateral movement the groin muscles are used tremendously, and keeping this area flexible will make you move faster and prevent muscle strain.
For more summer flexibility prep make sure to stop by the Wellness Center or check the events page for a complimentary yoga or Pilates class.
