Tennis beneficial for physical, mental and emotional health

Tennis requires alertness and tactical thinking; therefore, it may generate new connections between nerves in the brain, promoting a lifetime of continuing development of the brain, reported in a University of Illinois study. (Metro News Service photo)

Tennis requires alertness and tactical thinking; therefore, it may generate new connections between nerves in the brain, promoting a lifetime of continuing development of the brain, reported in a University of Illinois study. (Metro News Service photo)

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base’s indoor Tennis Club, located in Area A, is the only membership tennis club in the Air Force. Opened in 1977, the Tennis Club offers four indoor courts, automatic ball machines, a pro shop with racquet-stringing services, and an air-conditioned lounge.

The club’s recently renovated locker rooms feature showers and bathrooms in a comfortable location. Improved lighting and an outdoor butterfly garden are the newest additions to the tennis club.

There are many benefits in playing tennis. Tennis requires alertness and tactical thinking; therefore, it may generate new connections between nerves in the brain, promoting a lifetime of continuing development of the brain, reported in a University of Illinois study.

In an article for “Active,” Dr. Jack Groppel states that competitive tennis burns more calories than aerobics, inline skating or cycling according to studies on caloric expenditures. Playing tennis stimulates mental and emotional growth and is beneficial for physical, mental and emotional health.

The Tennis Club offers adult and junior group clinics and private lessons. Annual tournaments and monthly socials are available for club members, United States Tennis Association (USTA) and the Greater Miami Valley Tennis Association (GMVTA).

Adult beginner classes are available Mondays and Tuesdays. The club offers Cardio Tennis classes Mondays and Wednesdays for intermediate and advanced students. Classes are an hour long with a maximum of eight students per class. Saturday morning youth beginner, intermediate and high school classes are also available for ages 5 to 18 years old.

Leagues and private classes are offered through the GMVTA and USTA for intermediate and advanced members. Private lessons are also available with USPTA or PTR – certified teaching pros.

The tennis club is open to active duty military, civilians, family members, military and civilian retirees and contractors. For information on price, class times and membership, contact the tennis club at 937-257-7248.

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