The year has been off to a chilly start. Exercising outdoors in this cold and snowy weather can be dangerous and, let’s face it, downright miserable. But you don’t have to break your New Year’s resolution of getting fit just yet. The professionals at Yonkers Tennis Center (YTC) suggest picking up a racquet and playing at one of their six indoor tennis courts to get your heart rate up while the temperatures remain low.
YTC offers an 18-week clinic that guarantees adult starters will learn how to serve, rally, and score in a controlled and social environment. Lower compression balls are used to help master the fundamentals and ensure proper technique. Adult starter players can be complete beginners — those who have received basic coaching but have never played outside of a coaching environment — or those who are returning to tennis after a long absence.
The quick start for adults program ensures participants combine athletic movement with a character-building experience, says Tendai Kuwaza, YTC’s Director of Instruction.
According to Kuwaza, the adult program has an empathetic approach. “We are acutely aware that tennis is not an easy sport to learn. The road to success is full of mistakes, but what better way to grow than to learn and improve from them? A pro is there to help you recognize your mistakes so you are better equipped to play and compete independently,” he says.
The Zimbabwe native has been teaching tennis for seventeen years, with the last ten spent in Westchester. He touts the benefits of the sport, noting that it is both physically and mentally challenging. Tennis provides a full body workout, can reduce stress, encourages new friendships, and builds confidence, says Kuwaza.
“The cheesiest adage in tennis goes, ‘love means nothing.’ At Yonkers Tennis Center, love means everything,” Kuwaza says. “[Love] is our teaching cornerstone, meaning, everything we do comes from a place of caring. In helping you shape your tennis purpose, our staff will give you the tools to empower yourself to be the best possible player. Regardless of level, age or athletic ability, each player is valued and respected. We strive to make sure that Yonkers Tennis is simply an extension of home, always.”
His advice for adults looking to begin tennis this year? Recognize that tennis is a lifelong sport and it is important to take the time to learn the correct form. He says, “Getting the minute details correct early in the process will set you on a growth pathway. Don’t be in a rush to succeed.”
YTC instructs children and adults of all levels. The center (which is not membership based) offers private lessons, semi-private lessons, mandatory clinics, flexible clinics, tournaments, USTA leagues, and open court time. The quick start for adults program starts at $38.83/week for adult beginners. The next session begins Tuesday 1/23/18.
493 Sprain Road
Yonkers, NY 10710
914.968.6918 ext 0
