Stress on the tennis court can feel overwhelming, especially in junior competitions where many factors are out of the players’ control, and the pressure builds up as they get closer to the college recruiting stage. But stress isn’t always a bad thing. In fact, it can be your ally if you know how to handle it right.
Stress is your body’s way of gearing up for action. Your heart rate increases, your breathing quickens, and your body gets ready to perform. It’s like an internal alarm system, pushing you to be alert and focused. The key is to make stress your friend.
But how do you turn stress from an enemy into a friend? It starts with conditioning. When you’re well-conditioned, your body and mind are better equipped to handle pressure. The right conditioning creates a “harmonic unity” of your responses—physical, technical, and mental—allowing you to perform under pressure.
Think about driving a race car at 200 mph without any training. Scary, right? The same applies to tennis. Without proper conditioning, the demands of the game can feel overwhelming, leading to mistakes and panic. But with consistent training, you get used to the speed and stressors, making them easier to handle.
The key is to practice under conditions that mimic the stress of a real match. Play tiebreakers at the end of a tough practice session when you’re tired, or set high-pressure scenarios where you must win two points in a row to win the game. This trains your body and mind to stay calm and focused, even when the stakes are high.
Embrace the stress. Use it to sharpen your focus and fuel your performance. With the right conditioning and mindset, you can turn stress into a powerful tool, helping you rise to the occasion and play your best tennis when it matters most. Remember, stress isn’t your enemy—it’s a sign that you’re ready to give it your all!
