About Mindful Athlete Mentoring

The most important pieces of gear are tennis specific shoes and the racket. Tennis shoes are the most important for safety reasons. Running shoes have a higher risk of easily rolling an ankle, but if you are a just getting started any closed toe shoe will work.  I also have loner rackets that can be borrowed until you are ready to commit to purchasing your own. 

Tennis racket companies boast all types of claims but the general rule is if you are just starting look for rackets with larger head sizes (100in-105in), lower in swing weight (~10oz) often marketed as "power rackets". One example is the Babolat Pure Drive Lite and you can compare different models on TennisWarehouse.com. I can give further personalized recommendations in person after training.

Until about 13-14 years old most children will need junior rackets. The simplest way to check for sizing is to have them hold the bottom of the grip like a hammer by their side in a relaxed posture. The racket should be a few inched off of the ground. The younger they are the less I would recommend you spend as they will grow out of them quickly and may find other interests.

Yes! I began my tennis coaching career working with 3-5 year-olds, and worked my way up teaching every age and every level. For private lessons I generally recommend waiting unit they are about 8 years old, but it depends on their individual interest in the sport and their ability to focus.  

At Mindful Athlete Mentoring, we work with clients of all ages and backgrounds, including individuals, families, and groups. We also work with clients who have a wide range of health and wellness goals, from weight loss and nutrition to stress management and fitness.