Herts Tennis’ vision is to have every club in the county running a weekly walking tennis session.
What is Walking Tennis?
Walking Tennis is a slower-paced version of the traditional game that is designed to be accessible to all and is being used as a vehicle for older people in particular, to keep both body and mind active while also allowing them to enjoy the social side of being part of a tennis community.
Who can play Walking Tennis?
Walking Tennis is for anyone who wants to play Tennis, but at their own pace. It is ideal for:
- People who used to play Tennis but have had to stop, perhaps due to injury or age-related mobility issues.
- People just starting out as the easier pace can help build racket skills.
- People looking to get more active as it allows those who are less mobile to improve their physical health through increased movement and building strength
How do clubs benefit from the sessions?
By offering Walking Tennis clubs have a valuable addition to their social tennis programme which can help retain existing members and attract lapsed players. It helps grow membership by reaching new players who might have limited access to other local sports, particularly to those recovering from injury or managing long-term health conditions. By providing Walking Tennis clubs can also leverage external funding options from the LTA and wider partners while supporting the local community by helping people to be physically active.
What are the rules?
- No running or jumping: players are not allowed to run or jump at any point during play
- Double bounce allowed: players can let the ball bounce twice before hitting it, giving extra time to reach the ball
- Modified court size: matches can be played on a smaller court area to reduce the coverage needed
- Sponge and Orange balls: these are softer, slower paced balls better suited for walking tennis