Prepare Smarter. Move Better. Compete Harder.
Now that winter is here, effective preparation matters more than ever. Cold temperatures tighten muscles, reduce joint mobility, and increase the risk of injury. Stepping onto the court without a proper warm-up can lead to sluggish movement, delayed reactions, and preventable strain — all of which compromise performance from the very first point.
The Warm-Up Protocol is a focused, efficient 9-minute dynamic routine specifically designed for competitive tennis players. It targets mobility, activation, and movement patterns essential for high-level play — without requiring any equipment. Perform the full sequence two to three times before matches or intense training sessions.
Dynamic Warm-Up Routine
Thoracic Spine Rotations
Mobilizes the upper back and chest to support effective trunk rotation in strokes and serves.
Lie on your side with knees bent 90 degrees. Open your top arm across your body, rotating through the mid-back. Return to start. Perform for 15 seconds on each side.
Hip Cradles
Activates the hip flexors and glutes while improving joint mobility.
Step forward, lift your knee, and cradle your shin by holding your ankle and knee. Pull gently toward your chest. Alternate sides for 30 seconds.
Straight Leg Marches
Engages hamstrings and hip flexors to promote a longer, more dynamic stride.
From a standing position, swing one leg straight up in front of you to about waist height. Keep the knee extended. Alternate legs for 30 seconds.
Forward Lunges
Strengthens and activates the quads, hamstrings, and glutes while improving balance.
Step forward and lower into a lunge, keeping your torso upright and knee aligned over your foot. Return and repeat on the opposite leg for 30 seconds.
Lateral Lunges
Targets the adductors and improves lateral movement essential for tennis footwork.
Take a wide step to one side, bend the stepping knee, and shift your weight into that leg while keeping the opposite leg straight. Alternate sides for 30 seconds.
Side Shuffle with Overhead Reach
Integrates total-body coordination and raises heart rate to match play intensity.
Shuffle laterally in one direction, then back the other way, while raising and lowering your arms overhead. Continue for 30 seconds.
This routine is not optional—it’s foundational. In under 10 minutes, you’ll be better prepared to move efficiently, strike confidently, and compete at your highest level, regardless of the weather.
Train with purpose. Start with The Warm-Up Protocol.
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Rob2025-05-29 02:37:382025-05-29 02:37:38The Art of the Drop Shot: Disrupting Rhythm
