Preventing ankle sprains and increase balance ability in tennis players. Medicine and Science in Tennis 13(2): 18-20

Proprioception is especially important for tennis players, because tennis movement characteristics are complex, the footwork is demanding and a high level of balance is required. Since balance is one of the fundamental qualities that tennis players must develop, tennis-specific balance exercises should be included ina player’s daily training routine in order to maximise performance and minimise injury risk. The aim of the present paper was to present a structured programme of how to incorporate specific balance exercises fortennis players to improve balance and prevent lower limb injuries. In conclusion, we recommend tennis coaches to include balance exercises into their players’ daily tennis training programmes to improve proprioception and potentially reduce lower limb injuries. These balance exercises should be combined with tennis drills in order to be more sport-specific and interesting. The programme is intended to enhance hand-eye coordination and subconscious reaction. The duration of the recommended balance exercise programme should be eight weeks with a daily training duration that increases from 6 to 14 minutes.