Start Playing Tennis: A Beginner’s Guide for Adults and Kids

What Do You Need to Start Playing Tennis?

To start tennis for beginners, you need a tennis racket, comfortable athletic clothes, tennis shoes, and a few balls. You do not need a private court; many public parks have free or low-cost courts. A basic adult racket costs $20–$40, and a junior racket costs $15–$30. For young children, use low-compression balls that bounce lower and slower.

Choosing a Tennis Racket

The right tennis racket depends on age and strength. Adults typically use a 27-inch racket. Kids ages 4–6 use a 21–23-inch racket, ages 7–8 use a 23–25-inch racket, and ages 9–10 use a 25–26-inch racket. Grip size matters: when you hold the racket, there should be about a finger’s width of space between your fingertips and palm. Most beginners do fine with a light, oversize head racket that gives more power and a larger sweet spot.

Balls for Beginners

Standard yellow balls are fine for adults, but kids learn faster with red, orange, or green balls. Red balls are foam or felt and move the slowest; green balls are slightly softer than regular balls. These balls help junior tennis players learn timing without frustration.

How to Learn the Basic Strokes

There are four basic strokes: forehand, backhand, serve, and volley. Start with the forehand because it feels natural. Stand sideways to the net, turn your shoulders, and swing low to high while making contact in front of your body. The backhand uses a similar motion with a two-handed grip for beginners, which gives more control. The serve is the hardest stroke; break it into toss, swing, and follow-through. Practice a rally by hitting the ball back and forth gently over the net, focusing on control rather than power.

Step-by-Step Forehand

1. Grip the racket like shaking hands.
2. Stand sideways with your non-dominant shoulder pointing to the net.
3. Turn your upper body back as the ball approaches.
4. Swing forward low to high, hitting the ball in front of your front foot.
5. Finish with the racket over your opposite shoulder.

Step-by-Step Serve

1. Stand behind the baseline, feet shoulder-width apart.
2. Hold the racket in a relaxed grip; toss the ball slightly in front and above your head.
3. Bend your knees and reach up to hit the ball at full extension.
4. Snap your wrist downward gently and follow through across your body.

Understanding Tennis Scoring

Tennis scoring is simple once you know the sequence. Points go 0 (love), 15, 30, 40, and game. If both players reach 40, it is called deuce, and you must win by two points. A set is won by winning six games with at least a two-game lead. Most casual players play one set or a timed match. For kids, use no-ad scoring: at deuce, next point wins the game.

How to Make Practice Fun for Kids and Adults

Keep sessions short and playful. Adults can focus on one stroke for 15 minutes, then play a mini rally. For kids, use games like “bounce and catch” or “hit the target” to build coordination. Mixed groups can use red balls for everyone, which slows the game and lets beginners share a rally. Choose a park with a shaded area and bring water, snacks, and a blanket for a picnic break.

Picnic-Friendly Tennis Day

Pack easy items: sandwiches, fruit, granola bars, and a large water bottle. Bring a cooler if you have one. Use a backpack to carry rackets and balls. Schedule 45–60 minutes of tennis, then a relaxed picnic. In hot weather, play early morning or late afternoon and wear light-colored, breathable clothes.

Common Beginner Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many beginners grip the racket too tightly, which causes tension and poor shots. Hold it like a bird: firm but not crushing. Another mistake is trying to hit hard; instead, aim for a long, smooth swing. Kids often stand too far from the ball; encourage them to move their feet and get close. Avoid playing through pain; rest if your arm or shoulder hurts.

Budget and Scheduling Tips

Tennis is inexpensive if you use public courts and buy a basic racket. Used rackets from sports resale shops can cost under $10. Group lessons cost $10–$20 per session and are cheaper than private ones, but many beginners learn from free online videos. Play once or twice a week to build skill without overcommitting. If you have a flexible schedule, weekday mornings are usually less crowded at public courts.