I can relate Ian, I’m 70 years old and play doubles almost every day and been playing tennis for 50years ! Enjoy the tennis game thoroughly even though not as quick as as I used to be and had shoulder surgery! Stick it out buddy! Love the game!
I'm 77 and have played tennis for over 60 years. My take is the following: when you get older you can, and likely will, get injured regardless of what prevention methods you use. Right now, I'm nursing an ankle injury despite wearing good supportive tennis shoes with an orthotic and an ankle brace at the first sign of any tenderness. I retire my shoes every 4-5 months. I spend a good hour a day with prevention stretches, light weights and exercise cables. I warm up 15-20 minutes before playing, using the wall and doing some agility ladder work and short "tennis sprints." Nevertheless, it is a question of when your next injury will happen, not if it will happen. Fortunately, most injuries you may get are not fatal to tennis. But, yes, it still makes sense to adequately warm up before playing and continue to do maintenance stretching and strength conditioning. You can improve your tennis while losing strength employing a combination of racket and string choices to compensate for lack of power. Loss of speed can be compensated for using smarter shot placement (keeping the ball deep and favoring shots down the middle) which reduces the opponent's ability to hit sharp angles and powerful returns and by making sure you position yourself properly for the return shot.
The mother of all challenges: at 62 at a 4 or 4.5 level and after playing tennis for half a century and trying to remain competitive the surgeon botches a 4 corner fusion of your dominant right wrist leaving you unable to play. So you decide to start playing tennis with your left non dominant arm with a goal to reach a 4.0 within 3 years. If you think it's easy try serving with your non dominant arm....
All sorts of minor injuries have been making me switch back and forth. The challenge is fun, and that side of the brain is a very interesting place. Retired 13 years ago, and mostly paddled competitive kayak/canoe. Added playing tennis 3 years ago. Had both hips replaced last year. In March my shoulder acted up, but improved with Phys. Rx. Now it's my R triceps. Back to left handed play. Have to relearn the LH serve. How much fun can you have? haha 🙂
I've had a few injuries over the years (shoulder surgery twice and wrist surgery) so also have experience of playing left handed (I'm normally right handed). One of my most memorable tennis days was winning a league match for our 3rd team, playing left handed. I agree that serving with your non dominant arm is just a joke, I've no idea how Nadal does it!
@@1protos never got really 'comfortable', backhand seemed to be easier for volleys and groundstrokes, forehand harder, smashes and serve ridiculously tough. I probably played for 3 or 4 months total left handed, max 3 times a week, even had one lesson!
@@paultune1696 That is too short a time. I am at about 15 months playing and training more than 4 to 5 times a week. Still players I would have beat 6-1 or 6-2 regularly are now beating me with the same score easily.
I am nearly 57 and started playing tennis again at 53. I came out too hard when I started back and pretty much destroyed my shoulder in the first couple of weeks trying to serve as I did at 18. I played in pain for nearly and year with lots of icepacks and cortisone shots but then had to have shoulder surgery. I came back slowly and am now playing competitively and at a level that brings incredible joy. Down 40 lbs and finally getting close to fit enough that the southern summer heat doesn't slow me down from 2 hours sessions a few times a week. Thanks, Ian, for being there for the ride. I found you the first time by searching for a tennis shoulder stretching video. Your's came up, and the rest is history.
Thanks so much Ian, I'm 78 and trying to get back to tennis after two knee replacements. So glad to see so many guys are still thriving and enjoying the game at this age. I hope to join them soon!
Inspiring stuff, Ian. I am 44, was a competitive ranked junior in Illinois, and am just returning to playing after about a 25 year break. I have taken a much more incremental approach, signing up for a summer league where I was slotted at a 3.5 ranking NRTP ranking, a full point below where I thought I would be. It has been humbling as I ended up with a 4-3 record (but qualified for the playoff tourney). I even found myself losing matches to pushers. However, I take much better care of my body now and have a much more analytical approach to improvement. In fact, I've already devoured your book as well as Gilbert's Winning Ugly. I take detailed notes after every match, develop points to work on, and give myself credit for what I do well. I even have a crib sheet I keep in my bag to glance at in case I lose focus or start psyching myself out. Now that I am playing some people a second time I have scouting reports and can develop strategies and scripted plays. Think having a constant improvement mindset helps here. Now I just have to turn my 2 hand backhand into a weapon instead of a liability. 🤣Thanks for sharing such great content!
Thank you SO much for sharing your story, Peter! I'm really happy you didn't get discouraged, good for you! Keep up the great work on and off the court.
I really needed to see this today! I started playing in 2020 at age 44 and progressed pretty rapidly; easily winning most of my USTA matches. Now I've moved up a level, and am struggling a little. Despite my impatience I need to realize improving my game is a marathon, not a sprint!
YES, what you typed is sooooo important, Sara. The cliche is so true: tennis is a game for a lifetime. You will never stop learning, never stop being challenged, no matter how long you've been playing or how good you get. There will ALWAYS be somebody better than you, always. Be sure to enjoy the process/journey!
I will be turning 76 in 2 months, and I am technically playing the best tennis in my life, (Ian, largely because I discovered you and UA-cam Coaching 6 Yrs ago, when I decided to get back in shape by playing Tennis after a 25 yr absence from the sport!), and still feel the utter joy and pure magic of hitting a tennis ball well and hard with the same pro and friend I have hit with for the past 6 Yrs. I went down to my local public tennis courts in Donner Park in Columbus, IN when I was 9 y/o, and started hitting tennis balls against the wall and playing anyone who would hit with me, and I was hooked for life.(But what a Positive Addiction!) Doc
My main hitting partner is 73, and has had two hip replacements, one knee replacement, a lumbar back fusion, a cervical vertebrae fusion, and a rotator cuff surgery over the years. He keeps coming back; though he obviously isn't as mobile as in years past (we have been opponents for over 35 years), he has earned the nickname "the Human Backstop" because if he can get to it, it's coming back at you. I myself am 68, and have come back from various injuries as well. Never, ever, give up. I love your channel.
I walked away from tennis in 1999. Got to where I just hated the sport and hated myself for wasting talent. Picked it up again in 2021, and did exactly what Ian did. Headfirst, challenged myself and ended up with a few injuries. Battled back and love the sport again. Playing USTA tournaments monthly and playing the best tennis of my life
I'm 43. I played UK County level tennis and then stopped at 17! Started again at 40. So far this year I have pulled both calf muscles and I am currently out with a wrist injury 😭
54, 9 years ago at 45 I went on a year of fitness. Did a bodyweight program and ran. The workout got to 4 sets of 15 chin ups, just to spell it out a bit. That's pretty hard-core. Being a bodyweight workout, low weight high reps, it actually got rid of a bunch of aches and pains. Got to a sub 6 mile. It required supreme dedication. Joined a tennis league after about an 18 year hiatus. Played 4 years varsity in HS. Played D1 hockey in college. This workout took me close to that level of fitness. It was crazy. Coined a phrase: breathing rare air. When walking around at that fitness level everything is better. Was basically 25 again. Went undefeated in that 1st season, 4.0 division. Fitness carried me thru. They bumped me up to the 4.5 division where I was no where near undefeated. :) But I could hang. So my recommendation is body weight training and even more, yoga. If u have the temperament to do that the strength and flexibility pay offs are huge. Especially as we age and stiffen
I’m of the same mindset. 52 yr old. I do 25-30 pushups 4-5 days a week. And some other body weight plyometic moves…jump squats. Yoga and tons of stretching and massages monthly allow me to continue 35 yrs of tennis and working as a tennis pro 6 days a week from Wisconsin now at a club in Houston.
I'm 73. I recently had a lung injury and wanted to still play tennis at my level with my friends. SO, Ian says to raise your game, improve your fundamentals! It works! Not only did I get to stay with my friends, I have moved up our team ladder. Listen to Ian. What he says will keep you on the court.
I just turned 50 this year. I think the most important things I have learned are to prioritize recovery/flexibility/mobility and scaling back my volume of tennis/exercise to allow for my best performance on court. I love the game more and more every year and plan to keep on playing as long as I possibly can.
Ian: at age 61 I had a 5-level neck fusion: 6 months to get back on court. At age 67 left total hip. Another 6 months of rehab. At age 70 right total hip with 5 months of rehab. At age 72 critical abdominal surgery- and 8 weeks later played in 65+ USTA nationals ( lost in third set tiebreak in my only match). With each hip surgery I followed you, Brady from DTL,Peter Freeman , and SImon and Alex from Top Tennis training to revamp my entire game- serve, overhead, volleys,forehand ( now a major weapon), court position and quickness drills, and slice backhand technique. Now close to 74 I played on our 55+ team which lost a heartbreaking match at Pac NW regionals to get to nationals. Another opportunity in Sept for our 65+ team to go back to nationals at PacNW regional championships. So, get older-get better. It's only possible by doing the work. Keep at it.
I am 49 years old and really appreciate Scott! He is so inspiring to me. Currently I play 4.0 in Atlanta trying to move up to 4.5 and look at his intelligence (humor of course!) fitness and honesty as a proven path for growth. Bless you man!
So..... I will be 65 this Fall. After 50 years of competitive tennis and age group rankings, 3 years ago I quit because my knee arthritis became too much. I went all in on pickleball. Several months ago my orthopedic doctor recommended I return to tennis but play doubles only. I’ve found by doing more things off the court (ie riding a bike 30 min every morning) and with quarterly cortisone shots I’ve been able to return to tennis. I started in April and now I’ve found great balance playing tennis 2 days a week and playing pickleball twice a week also. I’m doing al this with my same knees. Any knee replacement plans are way down the road for me. I missed the game and glad I’m back.
Tennis is life. Honestly, I want to cry tears of joy because I am so fortunate to have the health and the mind for this sport. It's big in my family and I finally found the love at age 43 😊 Two time National Champ so far. I'll never catch up to Jimmy but the championships are not the reason I love it. WHAT A WONDERFUL SPORT ❤ Thanks for this, Ian 🤘
Thanks for spotlighting us old guys Ian! At 67 I mostly play opponents at least 15 years younger and often less than half my age. I'm appreciative of those who allow me to try and hang with them on the court. My tennis goals are fun, fitness and improvement. Not always in that order! I enjoy surprising them with quick wheels when all they expect is the wisdom and prowess that age supposedly brings.
I am 54, and am about to get bumped up (I think/hope) to 4.0 after a few years of completely rebuilding my ground strokes, serve, and volley. it's been a humbling (at first) and awe-inspiring (lately) journey of gradual improvement over 4 years. Skills and fitness at 54 can improve, but it must be done without attaching to outcomes/expectations. There's nothing better than beating a younger player, hearing them complain about getting older (in their 40's) and not saying anything that they just got smoked by someone who's 10 years older ;-)
These guys are legends, truly. To see them keep the desire to keep improving is inspiring. Well done guys. And at 52, I totally understand the effort needed to keep on keeping on. Right ow, I'm about to do a session of planks, bird dogs and Russian twists! Keep swinging!
Ian, I am in my 86th year and playing tennis twice a week here in Ireland. I agree with most of what you included in the video. Obviously I'm not as fast around the court as I was 10 years ago, but , yes, as they all repeated, I picked up a lot of knowledge over the 40 years I have been playing. I keep myself fit, and I'm a vegan! And I came across Essential Tennis many years ago, which helped me a lot to identify my faults and make changes. Thanks Ian for that! How long can I keep going? Well I asked my 40 something year old doctor who replied "until you no longer enjoy playing, or until nobody will play with you!" So far so good!
Couple of changes I made over the years as I got older: Strengthened forehand grip from semi-western to a near eastern - didn’t have to worry about having as much racquet head speed to hit a solid, deep shot which was easier on the joints; Got rid of the full bed of copoly strings and softened with a hybrid, strung a little looser - this eliminated my tennis elbow issues completely; Wear ankle splints (Ala Andy Murray) - saved my ankles many times as age tends to make you a bit less nimble and more prone to catching your toes/foot on the ground; Reigned in my competitive intensity by about 10-20% - Don’t chase down every single shot no matter what, play within myself more; Hated doubles, but play more doubles now to get more playing time without the pain of full singles play - have learned to enjoy doubles more; Play more pickle ball - can still play with 20 year olds and take them down!
I'm just a year or so older than you and can absolutely relate. First knee surgery at 19, second at 23 and a back surgery at 36. I had to realize that trying to get back to the play style I had when I was young simply won't work. I still struggle with it because there are so few tournaments in my area that have enough men to break out 40+ brackets so I'm stuck playing people 10-20 years younger, but I'm getting there. Looking forward to the new program.
I am soon 84 and still trying to ply better. My backhand is a tradegy but I feel happy every time I am able to return a backhand shot. I am convinced every thing is between the ears. We have been playing doubles with the same guys, all over 70, for at least 2-3 yars now.
dude I've had injury issues for like two years and tennis isn't as fun when you're constantly worrying about when u gotta quit cuz of injuries, def can relate lol
Honestly speaking I’m 42, and really picked up a racket 7 years ago. The biggest things that motivate me is that I’ve never done this, but yet it’s fun and I’m enjoying it. However, being older, I have to eat and sleep, not just right, but tuned to my personal activity. That’s the only way I can reduce injury.
I'm 40 and I just got back into tennis a few months ago after not playing since I was a teenager. I love it and I'm hoping to start playing competitively soon, however it's so hard playing against people with decades of experience. The game just has so much depth to it that time makes such a difference.
So sorry to see you pulled a Zverev, Ian! Man, I hope you are ok. If it is any consolation, when I started playing one year ago, I was absolutely determined to get a drop shot, stumbled over my own feet and dove teeth first into the concrete. While hitting your teeth on the ground looks worse than it is, I don't recommend it to anyone. Unleth you want to develop a lithp and/or improve the local dentist economy. However, I learnt from the incident: three months later, I stumbled over my feet again, but this time stuck out the landing like an albatross and kept my head up. We gotta start it easy and then add intensity. For example, I have gone back to practising short balls that bounce at the net, because I always overhit them. I have to utilize much less power in my ground strokes, but I am learning control first. I have no doubt that my body will then add power when standing further away from the net. So that's how we have to approach learning new skills or improving on them, I think: regular practise, adding a slight bit of challenge each time. But the important part is the regularity. Just 15' on the wall - or even 5'! - will add up to big improvements over time, as long as we do it every day. Recommended book: "The Slight Edge" by Jeff Olson. And if your foot is still bothering you: get well soon, Ian!
WOW, what a crazy story. Don't think I've ever heard of anybody breaking their teeth on the court before. Totally agree RE starting easy...but that's so hard for me. Keep up the great work, Teuton!
@@EssentialTennis Thanks for the reply: Starting easy is hard to do indeed! Maybe the best mindset is: easing into hard training. That way, we may actually be able to train that much harder in the end. 200% intensity after one year rather than going 150% on day one.
Boy was this timely. I retired early so I could play more tennis and found I have lost a lot of the love of the game due to injuries and just not being as fast as I once was. I had a really tough match where I lost a match I should have easily won largely because I had made no adjustments for playing outside and for the fact I hadn't played in a couple of weeks. I was so disappointed, I was seriously considering dropping my rackets in the garbage can on the way off the court. Thanks for putting this out there. I'll definitely be checking it out.
I've had multiple serious injuries in my youth with soccer (broken wrists, 5 times torn ankle ligaments). I am 31 now, playing tennis for 4 years now I think. The first year everything was fine but in my second year I've got a 'patellar tendon' injury which kept me away from the game for half a year. Came back, played solid without serious issues until last winter. During the off season when I was hiking a lot I overloaded my archilles heel AND got 'plantar fasciitis'. It's tournament season now I am playing a lot, way too much. My foot is getting seriously in the way and even my older knee injury is starting the flare up again. It's fine when I play doubles, it's holding on okay when I play singles for one or two sets, but three sets is overkill. I am adjusting my tournaments where I signed in for to just mostly doubles now. I don't want to give up just yet. I am taking a two week break now from playing but I am stubbornly going on for one more month after that...then after that I'll rest for more...But I know I might over do it.
@@EssentialTennis When I was younger I would have go on untill I was completely wrecked and couldn't move anymore. Now, If after my two week break It's not good enough I'll add an extra week ;)
It might be harder for you to not overdo it and have the courage to back out before you get injured. One of these injuries may sideline you for good if you aren't more careful.
Great video Ian. I started tennis at 37 and I'm about to be 39. At first I felt so much pressure to get to a good level fast. After some slow stressful progress I realized I wanted the fun first then progression second. Now the pressure is gone but I've found now I'm progressing faster then before when I was all in at an extreme level. Go figure. Here is to the next half of your tennis journey! 🍺
I gave up on tennis 5 months ago, I took it as more of a rehab as the games i played just kept getting boring each time and it felt like I wasn't improving. Now that iv gone back iv lit the flame that i used to have and coming back stronger and I might try competing in local tournaments. Im 15, I started playing when i was 7
I can’t speak for how much this video lands for people of different age groups (though I have a good feeling), but I do really think these sorts of messages are also so crucial for a person transitioning into their 30s as well. So many of us never sit with and face these thoughts until we’re forced to, and I think the more of us that are led to proactively setting ourselves up for sustainable, growth-minded living, the better. Thanks for the video, crew!
I'm 65, played in HS, College (D1&3), and 40+ years of USTA Leagues (5.0 in my early 20's and 4.5 since then). I've also played in the National Senior Games and USTA Regional Tournaments. Here are the main things I've learned; 1. You are unlikely to get any better with age (especially if you played in college)! 2. But you can learn how to play smarter and more strategically; especially in doubles! 3. You need to spend some time in the gym (ideally) stretching and using light weights or bodyweight exercises to maintain muscle tone and flexibility (or you will get injured)! 4. Play on clay courts (Har-Tru) if you can! My knees were often hurting when I played on hard courts (4 x per week). Now, they are fine with the same or more time on the court. It's amazing how much easier Har-Tru is on the knees and legs. 5. Play doubles! Yes, we can all play singles occasionally but singles in tournaments after 65 is just asking for trouble. I see a lot of withdrawals after the first round or two. Marty
Hey, Ian, I have worked with you some time ago in person and enjoyed the experience. It's funny, but I keep hearing references to "50 years old", etc. ... well, I'm 75 and still enjoy my tennis ... usually three times each week, both singles and doubles. I don't comment to get cudo's ... just to let everyone know it's a great sport, fun competition (as long as you come to accept those increasing limitations - not that I was that good to start with) - and do your best physically, conditionally, mentally, psychologically to enjoy the sport. Thanks, however, for your focus on this subject. I'll take what I can to learn from it and keep on looking to enjoy more court time. A high-five racquet to all tennis enthusiasts!! Fred
Thanks for this video. I’m nearly 40 (former coach) and literally this week I’ve been getting really down on myself for not keeping up with guys nearly 20 years younger than me... I have peripheral neuropathy which gives me a whole list of medical problems and the point of comparing to others my age has just made a lightbulb moment occur in my head, it’s such great advice and I now feel a lot happier and content in myself just because of that one single comment, so thank you again 😊👍🏻🎾
I am 62 and can absolutely relate. I am in fairly good physical shape, move on the court well and yet every morning after I play, I can barely get out of bed. I am playing on a team with younger players and wonder why there aren't more leagues for 60+ players not 18+ and 40+ players.
I've just been lucky, only a minor knee surgery for meniscus so far on my knee that takes the weight transfer when serving. So, I'm late 40's and still only play 18+. I'll sometimes do two categories of singles in a tournament like 4.0 and 4.5 or 4.5 and open. I get beat in Open, but can take a couple games per set. I'll usually lose 5 pounds over a weekend. I didn't get burned out somehow from low level college tennis, so I've been playing year round for decades. I now play 5 times a week usually and I've enjoyed your material helping me get more strategic in singles. I need to learn from these guys in the video so I can transition to 50's and 60's tennis.
I played high-school and college then took 20 years or so off to play ultimate frisbee at a club level. Came back during the pandemic to tennis and worked back to a 4.5 level. Only problem is I keep getting golfers elbow and am truly considering retiring again. Would love to keep playing but can't seem to get around this problem. Going to try wearing a shock elbow brace/sleeve from now on every time I hit but if that doesn't work looks like it's retirement from me at age 43 from tennis.
At 52 years old, the game is still a blast to play, and I'm playing some of the best tennis of my life, but the next day is hell from body stiffness and aches.
I'm 65. I want to emulate Michelle, one of the playtesters at Tennis Warehouse--not just her aggressive tennis style, but the sheer joy of playing that you can see as she smiles while hitting balls! I'm having fun, but I'd have more if I could show some happy teeth!
4.0 player in my 40's. I can sympathize Ian. Just wrapped up a week of tennis lessons at tennis resort. Had fun all week, but got carried away and spent too long on court instead of resting one day and had to sit out a day instead of playing. I'm always looking to improve but I can't spend all day on court anymore. I learned a lot but also have to take care of my body if I want to keep playing.
Nice video! I wish USTA tennis was possible in St. Cloud. Nearest team is above my age and another team is .5 level too high for the self rating I got. Golf never agreed with me...lol.
I don’t mind high temperatures, actually. Incidentally, back in 18-ought-7, I was playing in a 40 and over league where someone forgot to bring balls. As luck would have it, there were pine cones scattered around the court, so we played with three of the rounder cones. I was able to generate incredible action with spin on these ersatz balls, and one of my opponents accused me of witchcraft, saying only a pine tree could control those cones. And that, children, is how I invented the term “tree”.
I have been able to play into my 60s. So far so good but only if I get enough rest and not gain weight. I also wear AirCast ankle supports on both ankles and a left knee brace and occasionally a groin- thigh brace. As I get older my tennis has gotten smarter. I can’t outrun the younger guys but I have so many strategies I can use. And I make a point of trying to play people half my age as much as possible. I really believe that tennis has been a gift - it’s better than any medicine, anything. Without it, I don’t know if I’d be the happy person I am or even have a reason to get up in the morning.
I can certainly relate to part of the title of the video. Competitive tennis just wasn't fun for me anymore. Try as I might for many years I didn't enjoy competitive tennis. Finally on a whim I tried pickleball. What a difference! The attitude surrounding this game is a breath of fresh air for me. It may not be for everyone but for me I had to stop beating my head against the wall.
starting tennis at a late age, it's great addictive fun until you get the aches, pains, & injuries. I have taken on yoga as a result and it definitely helps some. I am amazed by some older players, they are fantastic at the game, so much better than some of the younger players!
I am 64 years old and play doubles almost every day. With progressive slowing down of the body I have changed my style of playing to match up with lack of agility specially for drop shots from the opponents. I do no stand on the base line but about four to five feet inside . This enables me to counter drop shots as well as volley the opponents deep drives.
Good to see you back on youtube Ian. I know totally relate, Im getting physical pains here and there so need to use my brain or rather than power through it.
I play almost every week with a guy who's about to turn 73. We've been hitting out and talking over beers for about a decade now and he's still in wonderful shape. He eats well, exercise regularly and, so, he gets to hit and play... It's very impressive. Mind you, I'm 31 and he can hold his own. If I get to play like that at his age, I'll consider it a success.
Yes, totally can relate. I am almost 50, so much slower, weaker, and cannot recover as quick. I cannot go on playing, thinking i can do what i did as a teen or a 20something. Too many injuries and poorer fitness / eyesight. Gotta take it easy on myself.
For the past 2 years, my low back has kept me off the court more than on. It’s very frustrating and depressing because I have a passion for all things tennis. They say “never get surgery” on your back, but I’m getting desperate. I want to play!
I'll be 67 next Saturday and I play better now than 10 years ago. Being not so fast anymore I´ll compensate that with better use of the court and I am still able to get the most dropshots.
I can kind of relate. Im currently 18 years old and i have sprained my right ankle 3 times now and my left ankle twice. I'm scared in the future as walking for too long hurts my right foot
they looked relaxed, I won Thai city championships at 67, in doubles, third in singles, was 38 and number three player in college, Viet vet, won county Bs, study it all, and pain does not help, do the stretches, backboard, light weights, diet right, veggies, and be glad what you had, can always watch if injuries mount, and get better by watching too, USPTA one great goal, and leagues, you have the truth within,
Hi Ian. I am thrilled by this offering and will purchase it today. One thought if you ever decide to add to the offerings would be to include some women as well. Always enjoy your thoughts and your tips and exercises are excellent. Thank you.
Yup- when I hit 60 it was clear that to continue to play required sticking to the essentials, and ALWAYS warm up and down when playing. I also never drink alcohol after playing like a lot of the GUYS hanging out on the benches who have a beer- it DOES affect your recovery. Always drink something with Vitamins, or some kind of recovery drink, but basically just make sure to get lots of fresh water (it does the best things for the body)- and make sure to get protein for dinner to help your body rebuild.
Honestly--I can relate as an overweight former athlete at 32 who's been getting back into tennis playing singles at my local club. My knees are aching, my right wrist has carpal tunnel, my cardio sucks. I've always been athletic but I started tennis late at 19 and used to make up for my lack of experience with athletic ability. Now I'm been focusing on technique as my athletic ability has diminished. It's a wild ride but I know if I make time for conditioning and get in the reps while consciously critiquing my technique and decision making I'll continue to improve. Little by little. I'm in love with tennis as a sport though, absolutely obsessed!
Thanks Ian for this great content ! Very inspiring even for young recreational player. It's all about becoming a better version of yourself vs becoming "the best"
I didn't really start to play until law school. Played at 4.0-5.0 (no ratings then, of course) for years. Then, at 51 decided to play some national tournaments (including a few with Phil Landauer, though I never played him) and ended up being ranked #62 nationally i n 50+ in 2002. Stayed with it until a couple of years ago when my knee finally wouldn't allow me to get around the court and drugs I need to take make getting a new knee
Having gotten a sneak peak at the program, I'm can't wait to get the whole package. It helps answers some questions I've started to ask and some I haven't thought of yet. I'm planning on playing tennis for a long time even though I started in my late 40's, this will help guide me and make me a better player! Thanks Ian!
There's much more added to the member's area now, Jim! Thanks so much for all your support and encouragement over the years! Hopefully Timeless Tennis will be a huge help to you.
It’s really discouraging the amount of injuries you might get due to tennis sometimes. Also, starting as an adult is so much different from playing with people that learn as kids. But my goal is to improve as much as I can technique wise and so I can adjust my body as I age. I know people in their 60’s that can smoke you just because of the way they hit.
Great vid. I'm working w/ a financial planner to retire early so I have more time to train, travel, & play in goofy USTA tournaments on the weekends 😂.
Grip changes can be really, really tough. Honestly, my best advice is simply to "keep swinging". More reps, more reps, more reps. It's going to take time before it feels "normal" and comfortable again. Be patient and keep swinging.
@@tenniswithandy I think I simply end up learning the grip myself and have always been struggling with my forehand - I actually run around my fh to hit bh during matches - Then one of my teachers noticed my grip and said I would be better of changing
@@xawee7254 You can hit a forehand with pretty much any grip. I personally prefer a hybrid eastern or semi western as I can easily drive through it or generate lots of spin. The western grip is tricky as the grip changes from forehand to backhand and vice versa take time.
Stiff raket stiff strings wrecked your neck n shoulder....happened to me....i kept raket but put in stiff multi like triax or sonetimes hybrid .. no relapse 2 years going
I definitely had really significant body/physical stuff going on in both cases....strings could be part of the equation, but definitely not as big of a factor.
@@EssentialTennis i had no problems with polys till i was in my 40s and thought it was something else....then i decided to change strings after healing neck n shoulder....i kept re agrivating it till i put a multi in....thats why i know its strings......thousand of bad frequancy n vibrations every month builds up cause after 40 you wont heal as fast
@@mteca5093 it's different for everyone. For me I found a lot of success switching to a smaller grip size (#3, used to use #4 aka 4.5in) and using a Pro Kennex racket that is very flexible and designed for arm comfort. I can throw a pretty stiff hybrid in there and I haven't had problems lately thank god! BUT, technique and fitness are also huge. We can all make equipment tweaks but you gotta use your body correctly as well. I think that's what Ian is getting at.
Managing injury problems just makes you like the pro's - they all have them too. Fortunately most of us as we get older you can afford to pay for more physio time.
Let’s not kid ourselves - senior tennis is not for everyone. I am 79 and play tennis at the 4.0 level. While I still have the joints to cover drop shots and deep over my partner's head, I clearly lost speed. Not many of my peers are so fortunate. Between sciatica, bursitis, arthritis, loss of muscular strength and flexibility, illness, and death, players at this age and level are harder to find. I end up playing with and against much younger players (my indoor group of 8 players ranges in age from 35 to 65, and me). Yes, accommodations can be made - doubles, spin serves, more net play, 2-hour time limits in the heat - but there’s just so much that can be done. There may be some of us left, but we are the exception, and not the rule. Time takes its toll on everyone.
It's funny because I'm in my mid 30s and getting into tennis more as basketball gets harder to do with two reconstructed ACLs. In my mind tennis is a lower injury option.
Be sure to check this training so you can feel and play your best at any age: www.timelesstennistraining.com/
I can relate Ian, I’m 70 years old and play doubles almost every day and been playing tennis for 50years ! Enjoy the tennis game thoroughly even though not as quick as as I used to be and had shoulder surgery! Stick it out buddy! Love the game!
Amazing, LOVE hearing stories like that. Thanks so much for commenting, Gator!
I'm 77 and have played tennis for over 60 years. My take is the following: when you get older you can, and likely will, get injured regardless of what prevention methods you use. Right now, I'm nursing an ankle injury despite wearing good supportive tennis shoes with an orthotic and an ankle brace at the first sign of any tenderness. I retire my shoes every 4-5 months.
I spend a good hour a day with prevention stretches, light weights and exercise cables. I warm up 15-20 minutes before playing, using the wall and doing some agility ladder work and short "tennis sprints." Nevertheless, it is a question of when your next injury will happen, not if it will happen. Fortunately, most injuries you may get are not fatal to tennis. But, yes, it still makes sense to adequately warm up before playing and continue to do maintenance stretching and strength conditioning.
You can improve your tennis while losing strength employing a combination of racket and string choices to compensate for lack of power. Loss of speed can be compensated for using smarter shot placement (keeping the ball deep and favoring shots down the middle) which reduces the opponent's ability to hit sharp angles and powerful returns and by making sure you position yourself properly for the return shot.
Amazing stuff, George! You're such a good example for all of us, keep up the great work!
The mother of all challenges: at 62 at a 4 or 4.5 level and after playing tennis for half a century and trying to remain competitive the surgeon botches a 4 corner fusion of your dominant right wrist leaving you unable to play. So you decide to start playing tennis with your left non dominant arm with a goal to reach a 4.0 within 3 years. If you think it's easy try serving with your non dominant arm....
All sorts of minor injuries have been making me switch back and forth. The challenge is fun, and that side of the brain is a very interesting place. Retired 13 years ago, and mostly paddled competitive kayak/canoe. Added playing tennis 3 years ago. Had both hips replaced last year. In March my shoulder acted up, but improved with Phys. Rx. Now it's my R triceps. Back to left handed play. Have to relearn the LH serve. How much fun can you have? haha 🙂
I've had a few injuries over the years (shoulder surgery twice and wrist surgery) so also have experience of playing left handed (I'm normally right handed). One of my most memorable tennis days was winning a league match for our 3rd team, playing left handed. I agree that serving with your non dominant arm is just a joke, I've no idea how Nadal does it!
@@paultune1696 How long did you need to feel comfortable playing lefty in terms of training and hours on court?
@@1protos never got really 'comfortable', backhand seemed to be easier for volleys and groundstrokes, forehand harder, smashes and serve ridiculously tough. I probably played for 3 or 4 months total left handed, max 3 times a week, even had one lesson!
@@paultune1696 That is too short a time. I am at about 15 months playing and training more than 4 to 5 times a week. Still players I would have beat 6-1 or 6-2 regularly are now beating me with the same score easily.
I am nearly 57 and started playing tennis again at 53. I came out too hard when I started back and pretty much destroyed my shoulder in the first couple of weeks trying to serve as I did at 18. I played in pain for nearly and year with lots of icepacks and cortisone shots but then had to have shoulder surgery. I came back slowly and am now playing competitively and at a level that brings incredible joy. Down 40 lbs and finally getting close to fit enough that the southern summer heat doesn't slow me down from 2 hours sessions a few times a week. Thanks, Ian, for being there for the ride. I found you the first time by searching for a tennis shoulder stretching video. Your's came up, and the rest is history.
Thanks so much Ian, I'm 78 and trying to get back to tennis after two knee replacements. So glad to see so many guys are still thriving and enjoying the game at this age. I hope to join them soon!
Inspiring stuff, Ian. I am 44, was a competitive ranked junior in Illinois, and am just returning to playing after about a 25 year break. I have taken a much more incremental approach, signing up for a summer league where I was slotted at a 3.5 ranking NRTP ranking, a full point below where I thought I would be. It has been humbling as I ended up with a 4-3 record (but qualified for the playoff tourney). I even found myself losing matches to pushers. However, I take much better care of my body now and have a much more analytical approach to improvement. In fact, I've already devoured your book as well as Gilbert's Winning Ugly. I take detailed notes after every match, develop points to work on, and give myself credit for what I do well. I even have a crib sheet I keep in my bag to glance at in case I lose focus or start psyching myself out. Now that I am playing some people a second time I have scouting reports and can develop strategies and scripted plays. Think having a constant improvement mindset helps here. Now I just have to turn my 2 hand backhand into a weapon instead of a liability. 🤣Thanks for sharing such great content!
Thank you SO much for sharing your story, Peter! I'm really happy you didn't get discouraged, good for you! Keep up the great work on and off the court.
I've taken off blocks of years twice. It's pretty trippy how long it takes to get back up to snuff. Always way longer than we think it should
I really needed to see this today! I started playing in 2020 at age 44 and progressed pretty rapidly; easily winning most of my USTA matches. Now I've moved up a level, and am struggling a little. Despite my impatience I need to realize improving my game is a marathon, not a sprint!
YES, what you typed is sooooo important, Sara. The cliche is so true: tennis is a game for a lifetime. You will never stop learning, never stop being challenged, no matter how long you've been playing or how good you get. There will ALWAYS be somebody better than you, always. Be sure to enjoy the process/journey!
I will be turning 76 in 2 months, and I am technically playing the best tennis in my life, (Ian, largely because I discovered you and UA-cam Coaching 6 Yrs ago, when I decided to get back in shape by playing Tennis after a 25 yr absence from the sport!), and still feel the utter joy and pure magic of hitting a tennis ball well and hard with the same pro and friend I have hit with for the past 6 Yrs. I went down to my local public tennis courts in Donner Park in Columbus, IN when I was 9 y/o, and started hitting tennis balls against the wall and playing anyone who would hit with me, and I was hooked for life.(But what a Positive Addiction!) Doc
My main hitting partner is 73, and has had two hip replacements, one knee replacement, a lumbar back fusion, a cervical vertebrae fusion, and a rotator cuff surgery over the years. He keeps coming back; though he obviously isn't as mobile as in years past (we have been opponents for over 35 years), he has earned the nickname "the Human Backstop" because if he can get to it, it's coming back at you. I myself am 68, and have come back from various injuries as well. Never, ever, give up. I love your channel.
I walked away from tennis in 1999. Got to where I just hated the sport and hated myself for wasting talent. Picked it up again in 2021, and did exactly what Ian did. Headfirst, challenged myself and ended up with a few injuries. Battled back and love the sport again. Playing USTA tournaments monthly and playing the best tennis of my life
So happy to hear that, Daniel!
I'm 43. I played UK County level tennis and then stopped at 17! Started again at 40. So far this year I have pulled both calf muscles and I am currently out with a wrist injury 😭
I feel your pain! Don't give up! More helpful videos are on the way.
54, 9 years ago at 45 I went on a year of fitness. Did a bodyweight program and ran. The workout got to 4 sets of 15 chin ups, just to spell it out a bit. That's pretty hard-core. Being a bodyweight workout, low weight high reps, it actually got rid of a bunch of aches and pains. Got to a sub 6 mile. It required supreme dedication.
Joined a tennis league after about an 18 year hiatus. Played 4 years varsity in HS.
Played D1 hockey in college. This workout took me close to that level of fitness. It was crazy.
Coined a phrase: breathing rare air.
When walking around at that fitness level everything is better. Was basically 25 again.
Went undefeated in that 1st season, 4.0 division. Fitness carried me thru.
They bumped me up to the 4.5 division where I was no where near undefeated. :) But I could hang.
So my recommendation is body weight training and even more, yoga. If u have the temperament to do that the strength and flexibility pay offs are huge. Especially as we age and stiffen
Amazing story and dedication, Sean! I'm super proud of you and all the work you put in! Really inspiring.
I’m of the same mindset. 52 yr old. I do 25-30 pushups 4-5 days a week. And some other body weight plyometic moves…jump squats. Yoga and tons of stretching and massages monthly allow me to continue 35 yrs of tennis and working as a tennis pro 6 days a week from Wisconsin now at a club in Houston.
I'm 73. I recently had a lung injury and wanted to still play tennis at my level with my friends. SO, Ian says to raise your game, improve your fundamentals! It works! Not only did I get to stay with my friends, I have moved up our team ladder. Listen to Ian. What he says will keep you on the court.
I just turned 50 this year. I think the most important things I have learned are to prioritize recovery/flexibility/mobility and scaling back my volume of tennis/exercise to allow for my best performance on court. I love the game more and more every year and plan to keep on playing as long as I possibly can.
❤
Ian: at age 61 I had a 5-level neck fusion: 6 months to get back on court.
At age 67 left total hip. Another 6 months of rehab. At age 70 right total hip with 5 months of rehab. At age 72 critical abdominal surgery- and 8 weeks later played in 65+ USTA nationals ( lost in third set tiebreak in my only match). With each hip surgery I followed you, Brady from DTL,Peter Freeman , and SImon and Alex from Top Tennis training to revamp my entire game- serve, overhead, volleys,forehand ( now a major weapon), court position and quickness drills, and slice backhand technique. Now close to 74 I played on our 55+ team which lost a heartbreaking match at Pac NW regionals to get to nationals. Another opportunity in Sept for our 65+ team to go back to nationals at PacNW regional championships. So, get older-get better. It's only possible by doing the work. Keep at it.
Love the way Scott Broady plays. Silver fox 🦊👍🎾
💯 Love his game and his attitude...
I am 49 years old and really appreciate Scott! He is so inspiring to me. Currently I play 4.0 in Atlanta trying to move up to 4.5 and look at his intelligence (humor of course!) fitness and honesty as a proven path for growth. Bless you man!
Thank you, Tom! I’m just happy to be here 😁
So..... I will be 65 this Fall. After 50 years of competitive tennis and age group rankings, 3 years ago I quit because my knee arthritis became too much. I went all in on pickleball. Several months ago my orthopedic doctor recommended I return to tennis but play doubles only. I’ve found by doing more things off the court (ie riding a bike 30 min every morning) and with quarterly cortisone shots I’ve been able to return to tennis. I started in April and now I’ve found great balance playing tennis 2 days a week and playing pickleball twice a week also. I’m doing al this with my same knees. Any knee replacement plans are way down the road for me. I missed the game and glad I’m back.
Good for you, Richard! So happy you're back on the court again!
Tennis is life. Honestly, I want to cry tears of joy because I am so fortunate to have the health and the mind for this sport. It's big in my family and I finally found the love at age 43 😊 Two time National Champ so far. I'll never catch up to Jimmy but the championships are not the reason I love it. WHAT A WONDERFUL SPORT ❤ Thanks for this, Ian 🤘
Thanks for spotlighting us old guys Ian! At 67 I mostly play opponents at least 15 years younger and often less than half my age. I'm appreciative of those who allow me to try and hang with them on the court. My tennis goals are fun, fitness and improvement. Not always in that order! I enjoy surprising them with quick wheels when all they expect is the wisdom and prowess that age supposedly brings.
I am 54, and am about to get bumped up (I think/hope) to 4.0 after a few years of completely rebuilding my ground strokes, serve, and volley. it's been a humbling (at first) and awe-inspiring (lately) journey of gradual improvement over 4 years. Skills and fitness at 54 can improve, but it must be done without attaching to outcomes/expectations. There's nothing better than beating a younger player, hearing them complain about getting older (in their 40's) and not saying anything that they just got smoked by someone who's 10 years older ;-)
These guys are legends, truly. To see them keep the desire to keep improving is inspiring. Well done guys. And at 52, I totally understand the effort needed to keep on keeping on. Right ow, I'm about to do a session of planks, bird dogs and Russian twists! Keep swinging!
Keep up the fantastic work, Sean!
Ian, I am in my 86th year and playing tennis twice a week here in Ireland. I agree with most of what you included in the video. Obviously I'm not as fast around the court as I was 10 years ago, but , yes, as they all repeated, I picked up a lot of knowledge over the 40 years I have been playing. I keep myself fit, and I'm a vegan! And I came across Essential Tennis many years ago, which helped me a lot to identify my faults and make changes. Thanks Ian for that! How long can I keep going? Well I asked my 40 something year old doctor who replied "until you no longer enjoy playing, or until nobody will play with you!" So far so good!
Couple of changes I made over the years as I got older: Strengthened forehand grip from semi-western to a near eastern - didn’t have to worry about having as much racquet head speed to hit a solid, deep shot which was easier on the joints; Got rid of the full bed of copoly strings and softened with a hybrid, strung a little looser - this eliminated my tennis elbow issues completely; Wear ankle splints (Ala Andy Murray) - saved my ankles many times as age tends to make you a bit less nimble and more prone to catching your toes/foot on the ground; Reigned in my competitive intensity by about 10-20% - Don’t chase down every single shot no matter what, play within myself more; Hated doubles, but play more doubles now to get more playing time without the pain of full singles play - have learned to enjoy doubles more; Play more pickle ball - can still play with 20 year olds and take them down!
I'm just a year or so older than you and can absolutely relate. First knee surgery at 19, second at 23 and a back surgery at 36. I had to realize that trying to get back to the play style I had when I was young simply won't work. I still struggle with it because there are so few tournaments in my area that have enough men to break out 40+ brackets so I'm stuck playing people 10-20 years younger, but I'm getting there.
Looking forward to the new program.
I am soon 84 and still trying to ply better. My backhand is a tradegy but I feel happy every time I am able to return a backhand shot. I am convinced every thing is between the ears. We have been playing doubles with the same guys, all over 70, for at least 2-3 yars now.
dude I've had injury issues for like two years and tennis isn't as fun when you're constantly worrying about when u gotta quit cuz of injuries, def can relate lol
It's the worst when you're just kind of stuck and don't know what to do to get out of pain! Hope you've found some solutions, Jerry
@@EssentialTennis nah it's probably permanent, I think I'll just have to adjust my playstyle
Thank you so much for this video..very inspiring...I am in my 50s...and excited to play for many years
Honestly speaking I’m 42, and really picked up a racket 7 years ago. The biggest things that motivate me is that I’ve never done this, but yet it’s fun and I’m enjoying it. However, being older, I have to eat and sleep, not just right, but tuned to my personal activity. That’s the only way I can reduce injury.
I'm 40 and I just got back into tennis a few months ago after not playing since I was a teenager. I love it and I'm hoping to start playing competitively soon, however it's so hard playing against people with decades of experience. The game just has so much depth to it that time makes such a difference.
So sorry to see you pulled a Zverev, Ian! Man, I hope you are ok. If it is any consolation, when I started playing one year ago, I was absolutely determined to get a drop shot, stumbled over my own feet and dove teeth first into the concrete. While hitting your teeth on the ground looks worse than it is, I don't recommend it to anyone. Unleth you want to develop a lithp and/or improve the local dentist economy. However, I learnt from the incident: three months later, I stumbled over my feet again, but this time stuck out the landing like an albatross and kept my head up.
We gotta start it easy and then add intensity. For example, I have gone back to practising short balls that bounce at the net, because I always overhit them. I have to utilize much less power in my ground strokes, but I am learning control first. I have no doubt that my body will then add power when standing further away from the net.
So that's how we have to approach learning new skills or improving on them, I think: regular practise, adding a slight bit of challenge each time. But the important part is the regularity. Just 15' on the wall - or even 5'! - will add up to big improvements over time, as long as we do it every day. Recommended book: "The Slight Edge" by Jeff Olson.
And if your foot is still bothering you: get well soon, Ian!
WOW, what a crazy story. Don't think I've ever heard of anybody breaking their teeth on the court before. Totally agree RE starting easy...but that's so hard for me. Keep up the great work, Teuton!
@@EssentialTennis Thanks for the reply: Starting easy is hard to do indeed! Maybe the best mindset is: easing into hard training. That way, we may actually be able to train that much harder in the end. 200% intensity after one year rather than going 150% on day one.
Boy was this timely. I retired early so I could play more tennis and found I have lost a lot of the love of the game due to injuries and just not being as fast as I once was. I had a really tough match where I lost a match I should have easily won largely because I had made no adjustments for playing outside and for the fact I hadn't played in a couple of weeks. I was so disappointed, I was seriously considering dropping my rackets in the garbage can on the way off the court. Thanks for putting this out there. I'll definitely be checking it out.
I've had multiple serious injuries in my youth with soccer (broken wrists, 5 times torn ankle ligaments). I am 31 now, playing tennis for 4 years now I think. The first year everything was fine but in my second year I've got a 'patellar tendon' injury which kept me away from the game for half a year. Came back, played solid without serious issues until last winter. During the off season when I was hiking a lot I overloaded my archilles heel AND got 'plantar fasciitis'. It's tournament season now I am playing a lot, way too much. My foot is getting seriously in the way and even my older knee injury is starting the flare up again. It's fine when I play doubles, it's holding on okay when I play singles for one or two sets, but three sets is overkill. I am adjusting my tournaments where I signed in for to just mostly doubles now. I don't want to give up just yet. I am taking a two week break now from playing but I am stubbornly going on for one more month after that...then after that I'll rest for more...But I know I might over do it.
That sounds really, really dangerous, Wacko. Please don't let things get out of control!
@@EssentialTennis When I was younger I would have go on untill I was completely wrecked and couldn't move anymore. Now, If after my two week break It's not good enough I'll add an extra week ;)
It might be harder for you to not overdo it and have the courage to back out before you get injured. One of these injuries may sideline you for good if you aren't more careful.
Right there with ya, brother!! Pushing 65 and I am DEFINITELY slowing down.
Hope you have a plan to keep taking good care of yourself, Sean! More videos to come on this that will help!
Great video Ian. I started tennis at 37 and I'm about to be 39. At first I felt so much pressure to get to a good level fast. After some slow stressful progress I realized I wanted the fun first then progression second. Now the pressure is gone but I've found now I'm progressing faster then before when I was all in at an extreme level. Go figure. Here is to the next half of your tennis journey! 🍺
I gave up on tennis 5 months ago, I took it as more of a rehab as the games i played just kept getting boring each time and it felt like I wasn't improving. Now that iv gone back iv lit the flame that i used to have and coming back stronger and I might try competing in local tournaments. Im 15, I started playing when i was 7
I can’t speak for how much this video lands for people of different age groups (though I have a good feeling), but I do really think these sorts of messages are also so crucial for a person transitioning into their 30s as well. So many of us never sit with and face these thoughts until we’re forced to, and I think the more of us that are led to proactively setting ourselves up for sustainable, growth-minded living, the better.
Thanks for the video, crew!
Always a pleasure to hear from you, Seirea
Such a good video, I constantly struggle with this. About to turn 40 but I want to play another 40 years!
❤💪
Great topic and thanks for the honesty and transparency Ian.
I'm 65, played in HS, College (D1&3), and 40+ years of USTA Leagues (5.0 in my early 20's and 4.5 since then). I've also played in the National Senior Games and USTA Regional Tournaments. Here are the main things I've learned;
1. You are unlikely to get any better with age (especially if you played in college)!
2. But you can learn how to play smarter and more strategically; especially in doubles!
3. You need to spend some time in the gym (ideally) stretching and using light weights or bodyweight exercises to maintain muscle tone and flexibility (or you will get injured)!
4. Play on clay courts (Har-Tru) if you can! My knees were often hurting when I played on hard courts (4 x per week). Now, they are fine with the same or more time on the court. It's amazing how much easier Har-Tru is on the knees and legs.
5. Play doubles! Yes, we can all play singles occasionally but singles in tournaments after 65 is just asking for trouble. I see a lot of withdrawals after the first round or two.
Marty
Hey, Ian, I have worked with you some time ago in person and enjoyed the experience. It's funny, but I keep hearing references to "50 years old", etc. ... well, I'm 75 and still enjoy my tennis ... usually three times each week, both singles and doubles. I don't comment to get cudo's ... just to let everyone know it's a great sport, fun competition (as long as you come to accept those increasing limitations - not that I was that good to start with) - and do your best physically, conditionally, mentally, psychologically to enjoy the sport. Thanks, however, for your focus on this subject. I'll take what I can to learn from it and keep on looking to enjoy more court time. A high-five racquet to all tennis enthusiasts!! Fred
This is refreshing.
Thanks for this video. I’m nearly 40 (former coach) and literally this week I’ve been getting really down on myself for not keeping up with guys nearly 20 years younger than me... I have peripheral neuropathy which gives me a whole list of medical problems and the point of comparing to others my age has just made a lightbulb moment occur in my head, it’s such great advice and I now feel a lot happier and content in myself just because of that one single comment, so thank you again 😊👍🏻🎾
I am 62 and can absolutely relate. I am in fairly good physical shape, move on the court well and yet every morning after I play, I can barely get out of bed. I am playing on a team with younger players and wonder why there aren't more leagues for 60+ players not 18+ and 40+ players.
I've just been lucky, only a minor knee surgery for meniscus so far on my knee that takes the weight transfer when serving. So, I'm late 40's and still only play 18+. I'll sometimes do two categories of singles in a tournament like 4.0 and 4.5 or 4.5 and open. I get beat in Open, but can take a couple games per set. I'll usually lose 5 pounds over a weekend. I didn't get burned out somehow from low level college tennis, so I've been playing year round for decades. I now play 5 times a week usually and I've enjoyed your material helping me get more strategic in singles. I need to learn from these guys in the video so I can transition to 50's and 60's tennis.
Wow, you've done so well up until this point, Paul! Don't worry, more videos coming featuring these guys. They're amazing.
I played high-school and college then took 20 years or so off to play ultimate frisbee at a club level. Came back during the pandemic to tennis and worked back to a 4.5 level. Only problem is I keep getting golfers elbow and am truly considering retiring again. Would love to keep playing but can't seem to get around this problem. Going to try wearing a shock elbow brace/sleeve from now on every time I hit but if that doesn't work looks like it's retirement from me at age 43 from tennis.
At 52 years old, the game is still a blast to play, and I'm playing some of the best tennis of my life, but the next day is hell from body stiffness and aches.
I'm 65. I want to emulate Michelle, one of the playtesters at Tennis Warehouse--not just her aggressive tennis style, but the sheer joy of playing that you can see as she smiles while hitting balls! I'm having fun, but I'd have more if I could show some happy teeth!
Thanks for sharing! This was a heart warming message, and gives us a positive outlook in our tennis journey
4.0 player in my 40's. I can sympathize Ian. Just wrapped up a week of tennis lessons at tennis resort. Had fun all week, but got carried away and spent too long on court instead of resting one day and had to sit out a day instead of playing. I'm always looking to improve but I can't spend all day on court anymore. I learned a lot but also have to take care of my body if I want to keep playing.
Nice video! I wish USTA tennis was possible in St. Cloud. Nearest team is above my age and another team is .5 level too high for the self rating I got.
Golf never agreed with me...lol.
Scott really is proof that anyone can continue to play at a high level deep into their 90's. Well done, Scott.😜
I don’t mind high temperatures, actually.
Incidentally, back in 18-ought-7, I was playing in a 40 and over league where someone forgot to bring balls. As luck would have it, there were pine cones scattered around the court, so we played with three of the rounder cones. I was able to generate incredible action with spin on these ersatz balls, and one of my opponents accused me of witchcraft, saying only a pine tree could control those cones.
And that, children, is how I invented the term “tree”.
I have been able to play into my 60s. So far so good but only if I get enough rest and not gain weight. I also wear AirCast ankle supports on both ankles and a left knee brace and occasionally a groin- thigh brace. As I get older my tennis has gotten smarter. I can’t outrun the younger guys but I have so many strategies I can use. And I make a point of trying to play people half my age as much as possible. I really believe that tennis has been a gift - it’s better than any medicine, anything. Without it, I don’t know if I’d be the happy person I am or even have a reason to get up in the morning.
I can certainly relate to part of the title of the video. Competitive tennis just wasn't fun for me anymore. Try as I might for many years I didn't enjoy competitive tennis. Finally on a whim I tried pickleball. What a difference! The attitude surrounding this game is a breath of fresh air for me. It may not be for everyone but for me I had to stop beating my head against the wall.
Superbly inspiring.
Looking forward to listening to these legends.
Thank you Ian and ET team.
MM
Evening. Try a distal radius fracture of your playing arm, at age 49 ! Not easy. But I am back playing tennis.
Ouch! So happy to hear you're back on the court again, Bradley!
Great piece Ian, one of the best ones!
Appreciate it
Great advice and can relate at 49. Thanks for this video too. Was getting worried when I saw the title though! 😃
starting tennis at a late age, it's great addictive fun until you get the aches, pains, & injuries. I have taken on yoga as a result and it definitely helps some. I am amazed by some older players, they are fantastic at the game, so much better than some of the younger players!
I am 64 years old and play doubles almost every day. With progressive slowing down of the body I have changed my style of playing to match up with lack of agility specially for drop shots from the opponents. I do no stand on the base line but about four to five feet inside . This enables me to counter drop shots as well as volley the opponents deep drives.
Such an inspiring video Ian. I'm in my 60s, improving and am absolutely determined to continue......I'm counting my $67 right now 🙂
My grandpa is 72 years old and he still plays tennis. He and my grandma played for a long time.
Good to see you back on youtube Ian. I know totally relate, Im getting physical pains here and there so need to use my brain or rather than power through it.
I play almost every week with a guy who's about to turn 73. We've been hitting out and talking over beers for about a decade now and he's still in wonderful shape. He eats well, exercise regularly and, so, he gets to hit and play... It's very impressive. Mind you, I'm 31 and he can hold his own. If I get to play like that at his age, I'll consider it a success.
Yes, totally can relate. I am almost 50, so much slower, weaker, and cannot recover as quick. I cannot go on playing, thinking i can do what i did as a teen or a 20something. Too many injuries and poorer fitness / eyesight. Gotta take it easy on myself.
How do you keep playing til your late 60’s and be competitive? Learn the correct
Fundamental. Prepare situate
Shot. Learn through experience.
For the past 2 years, my low back has kept me off the court more than on. It’s very frustrating and depressing because I have a passion for all things tennis. They say “never get surgery” on your back, but I’m getting desperate. I want to play!
I'll be 67 next Saturday and I play better now than 10 years ago. Being not so fast anymore I´ll compensate that with better use of the court and I am still able to get the most dropshots.
I can kind of relate. Im currently 18 years old and i have sprained my right ankle 3 times now and my left ankle twice. I'm scared in the future as walking for too long hurts my right foot
I can relate. Usually from overdoing it? OY
Ya, I was DEFINITELY going too hard right out of the gate, no question about it.
they looked relaxed, I won Thai city championships at 67, in doubles, third in singles, was 38 and number three player in college, Viet vet, won county Bs, study it all, and pain does not help, do the stretches, backboard, light weights, diet right, veggies, and be glad what you had, can always watch if injuries mount, and get better by watching too, USPTA one great goal, and leagues, you have the truth within,
Hi Ian. I am thrilled by this offering and will purchase it today. One thought if you ever decide to add to the offerings would be to include some women as well. Always enjoy your thoughts and your tips and exercises are excellent. Thank you.
Yup- when I hit 60 it was clear that to continue to play required sticking to the essentials, and ALWAYS warm up and down when playing. I also never drink alcohol after playing like a lot of the GUYS hanging out on the benches who have a beer- it DOES affect your recovery. Always drink something with Vitamins, or some kind of recovery drink, but basically just make sure to get lots of fresh water (it does the best things for the body)- and make sure to get protein for dinner to help your body rebuild.
Hey Ian, great content. Thanks
PS. try watching at playback speed of 1.75X.
What was your calf injury ?
Honestly--I can relate as an overweight former athlete at 32 who's been getting back into tennis playing singles at my local club. My knees are aching, my right wrist has carpal tunnel, my cardio sucks.
I've always been athletic but I started tennis late at 19 and used to make up for my lack of experience with athletic ability. Now I'm been focusing on technique as my athletic ability has diminished.
It's a wild ride but I know if I make time for conditioning and get in the reps while consciously critiquing my technique and decision making I'll continue to improve. Little by little. I'm in love with tennis as a sport though, absolutely obsessed!
Thanks Ian for this great content ! Very inspiring even for young recreational player. It's all about becoming a better version of yourself vs becoming "the best"
80 Vertigo problems ,spinal stenosis & still trying to play ,but realizing I
must lower my expectations . Still having fun
Wonderful video 📹...
Great insight...
Very Educational...
A Wise man learns from his mistakes...
Also a Wiser man learns from others...
👍 🎾
🙏
Turning 40 in a couple of days … I can relate with your passion and our injuries :) Goodluck
I’m 45 and in the past four years, a rotator cuff injury and two meniscus tears. Now I have a sore elbow and bicep pain. Getting old is hard.
I didn't really start to play until law school. Played at 4.0-5.0 (no ratings then, of course) for years. Then, at 51 decided to play some national tournaments (including a few with Phil Landauer, though I never played him) and ended up being ranked #62 nationally i n 50+ in 2002. Stayed with it until a couple of years ago when my knee finally wouldn't allow me to get around the court and drugs I need to take make getting a new knee
Having gotten a sneak peak at the program, I'm can't wait to get the whole package. It helps answers some questions I've started to ask and some I haven't thought of yet. I'm planning on playing tennis for a long time even though I started in my late 40's, this will help guide me and make me a better player! Thanks Ian!
There's much more added to the member's area now, Jim! Thanks so much for all your support and encouragement over the years! Hopefully Timeless Tennis will be a huge help to you.
Great video, man
It’s really discouraging the amount of injuries you might get due to tennis sometimes. Also, starting as an adult is so much different from playing with people that learn as kids.
But my goal is to improve as much as I can technique wise and so I can adjust my body as I age. I know people in their 60’s that can smoke you just because of the way they hit.
Don't give up, I An! You can do it! Stay tuned for more videos on this topic that will definitely help.
Great vid. I'm working w/ a financial planner to retire early so I have more time to train, travel, & play in goofy USTA tournaments on the weekends 😂.
This is kinda depressing
Super useful 👍🎾
Glad it was helpful!
Man I just changed my grip from western to Semi-Western and feels legit so weird. Any tips for the transition?
Grip changes can be really, really tough. Honestly, my best advice is simply to "keep swinging". More reps, more reps, more reps. It's going to take time before it feels "normal" and comfortable again. Be patient and keep swinging.
My question is why did you switch?
@@tenniswithandy I think I simply end up learning the grip myself and have always been struggling with my forehand - I actually run around my fh to hit bh during matches - Then one of my teachers noticed my grip and said I would be better of changing
@@EssentialTennis Aight thanks Ian - Would an inbetween solution work or maybe even going other extreme to end up in the middle?
@@xawee7254 You can hit a forehand with pretty much any grip. I personally prefer a hybrid eastern or semi western as I can easily drive through it or generate lots of spin. The western grip is tricky as the grip changes from forehand to backhand and vice versa take time.
Lovely video
Brilliant great video Ian
Thanks so much, Coach Pete!
I play with one of the best on my team she’s 86 and gets everything… 💥💥 !!
Amazing, super inspiring!
…aaand she’s going to nationals in Maui, Hawaii this month …😲🥰😂🎾🎾🎾💥🥰
Stiff raket stiff strings wrecked your neck n shoulder....happened to me....i kept raket but put in stiff multi like triax or sonetimes hybrid .. no relapse 2 years going
I definitely had really significant body/physical stuff going on in both cases....strings could be part of the equation, but definitely not as big of a factor.
@@EssentialTennis i had no problems with polys till i was in my 40s and thought it was something else....then i decided to change strings after healing neck n shoulder....i kept re agrivating it till i put a multi in....thats why i know its strings......thousand of bad frequancy n vibrations every month builds up cause after 40 you wont heal as fast
@@mteca5093 it's different for everyone. For me I found a lot of success switching to a smaller grip size (#3, used to use #4 aka 4.5in) and using a Pro Kennex racket that is very flexible and designed for arm comfort. I can throw a pretty stiff hybrid in there and I haven't had problems lately thank god! BUT, technique and fitness are also huge. We can all make equipment tweaks but you gotta use your body correctly as well. I think that's what Ian is getting at.
Managing injury problems just makes you like the pro's - they all have them too. Fortunately most of us as we get older you can afford to pay for more physio time.
Very true, we're basically in the same boat as them. Important to take it seriously just like they do!
I wanna play Scott (AKA, take a lesson).
Let’s do it!
@@scottbroady3159 It is definitely on my list.
Jesus this is so inspiring.
So happy to hear that!
relate
Let’s not kid ourselves - senior tennis is not for everyone. I am 79 and play tennis at the 4.0 level. While I still have the joints to cover drop shots and deep over my partner's head, I clearly lost speed. Not many of my peers are so fortunate. Between sciatica, bursitis, arthritis, loss of muscular strength and flexibility, illness, and death, players at this age and level are harder to find. I end up playing with and against much younger players (my indoor group of 8 players ranges in age from 35 to 65, and me). Yes, accommodations can be made - doubles, spin serves, more net play, 2-hour time limits in the heat - but there’s just so much that can be done. There may be some of us left, but we are the exception, and not the rule. Time takes its toll on everyone.
It's funny because I'm in my mid 30s and getting into tennis more as basketball gets harder to do with two reconstructed ACLs. In my mind tennis is a lower injury option.