Jorge Capestany – TennisDrills TV

Playing Conditions

How to Play in the Wind, Sun and Heat

Playing in various conditions is one of the many things that make tennis so challenging. The wind, sun and heat can be particularly troublesome if you do not have a plan to deal with the changing conditions. Keep in mind the following ideas for success:

Wind

  • The wind is not an equalizer. It favors the player with the most tactics available to use. This is usually the stronger and mentally tougher player.
  • You need to accept the fact that you will make more errors in the wind. Being willing to “play ugly” is a key tactic.
  • You should increase your “footwork” for last second adjustments to the ball.
  • Increase the pace of your groundstrokes so that the wind does not affect them as much as it might a slower hit ball.
  • Use less lobs as these shots are in the air the longest and are most affected by the wind. Be especially careful when lobbing with the wind at your back.

Sun

  • Put more first serves into play so that you only need to look up into the sun once.
  • Stay back more when the sun is in your face. That way you will not be forced to hit overheads while looking into the sun.
  • Adjust your service stance or positioning along the baseline to keep the toss out of the line of the sun.
  • Lob more frequently than normal, so your opponent has to hit overheads looking into the sun. Use drop shots and lobs as a game plan.
  • Be mentally tough. Do not let your opponent know that the sun is bothering you.
  • Make sure you stay out of the sun as much as possible before and after matches.

Heat

  • Make sure you are properly hydrated before the match begins. Then, drink at least 4-8 ounces on every changeover. Waiting until you feel thirsty, is too late.
  • Use the full 25 seconds between points to recover and towel off.
  • Play with aggressive tactics that will ensure shorter points. Realize that your opponent is also very hot and exhausted.
  • Always use the 90-second change-over to sit down and recover. You should never walk directly to the other side and start play without a rest.
  • If you feel you are the more fit player, be prepared to play long points.
  • Wear a wet and cool bandanna around your neck to help you stay cool.

Jorge Capestany - TennisDrills TV

Jorge is the Founder of www.tennisdrills.tv - a video based website that shows more than 700 videos of tennis drills and tips. Jorge is one of only nine people world-wide that is a Master Professional with both the USPTA and PTR. Jorge is a 6-time Michigan Pro of the Year a 2-time Midwest Pro of the Year. Jorge has coached hundreds of ranked juniors including 3 national champions.