What is cardio tennis?

A group workout on a tennis court that mixes hitting drills with continuous movement and music. It is aimed at fitness more than technique, so players of any level can take part.

Is tennis a good cardio workout?

Yes. Singles in particular involves repeated sprints and changes of direction. Drill-based sessions like cardio tennis keep your heart rate up even more consistently than match play.

Cardio Tennis & Fitness Drills

7 drill videos

High-energy drills that turn hitting into a workout.

Steps & tips ▾

How to do it

Dynamic warm-up. Five minutes of jogging, skips, lunges and arm circles.
Fast-feed rotations. Players rotate through quick feeds, hitting and moving back to the line without stopping.
Agility block. Ladder, cone or side-to-side drills in short 20 to 30 second bursts.
Game play. Fast games with quick rotations, such as king of the court.
Cool down. Easy hitting, walking and light stretching.

Key tips

Work in intervals: short, hard bursts followed by rest.
Keep technique simple when you are tired.
Drink water between rounds.
Wear proper court shoes; quick changes of direction are hard on ankles.

FAQ

What is cardio tennis?: A group workout on a tennis court that mixes hitting drills with continuous movement and music. It is aimed at fitness more than technique, so players of any level can take part.
Is tennis a good cardio workout?: Yes. Singles in particular involves repeated sprints and changes of direction. Drill-based sessions like cardio tennis keep your heart rate up even more consistently than match play.