The first tip I ever wrote for my league players was “Tennis 123” which outlined the main components of Concentration, Preparation and Movement.  Concentration is the most slippery of the 3 components. However, there are physical and mental tricks that can be used to help improve concentration.

 

The trick is to turn down the extraneous mind traffic during play and allow the body to react spontaneously.  Trying to direct the body, rather than letting the body react as it knows how is much less effective.  The body can’t be overwhelmed with too many thoughts which cause unnatural, less fluid motions. 

 

In “Tennis 123” my suggestion was to focus on watching the ball hit the strings, which is the most effective aspect of playing well.  Taking things a step further, understanding the handicap of too much thinking lets us develop a plan to play better.  Here are some suggestions to aid focus and concentration.  Only try one at a time, please!

 

1.      Watch the ball hit your strings

2.       Give yourself 5 seconds to be unhappy about a lost point then STOP!

3.      Focus on the rhythm of your breath between points

4.      Think about making your split step between ALL shots

5.      Recognize that the level of your play is a result of the work you have done on your game, don’t fall into the trap of being unhappy because your play isn’t as great as you think it should be

6.      After points get mentally ready to play the next point BEFORE you turn around or get to your position on the court

7.      Get in better shape, there is a direct correlation between fatigue and loss of focus

8.      Smile (you’d be surprised how much it can help)

9.      …and remember to have fun doing it