Things You'll Need:
- Tennis racquet
- Weights
- Tennis Strings
- Ace Bandage
- Water
-
Step 1
Whether you are a beginner or an old-hand at tennis, the first step to preventing tennis elbow is exercise your forearm. Consult a personal trainer for forearm specific exercises that focus on developing the muscles of the lower arm.
-
Step 2
Now a player needs to examine their equipment. Make sure your tennis racquet is the proper size and weight. Also be sure to check the grip size. A grip too large or small can create more stress on your lower arm muscles. The same holds true for a racquet that is too heavy or light. Again be sure to consult your local pro and/or proshop owner as to the best racquet for you.
-
Step 3
Another overlooked piece of equipment are the racquet strings. Strings are like milk in that they too go bad even if you don't use them often. One rule of thumb is to change the strings in your racquet as many times in a year as you play in a week. For example, if you play 3 times a week then you should replace your strings 3 times a year. However, at the very least you should replace your strings 2 a year and if you do not lay very often (ie. several months between playing), replace your strings the day before you go out to play. Also be aware of your string tension. Looser tensions help prevent tennis elbow but you will lose control on the ball. So again consult your local tennis pro for advice to the best tension for your game.
-
Step 4
If you still feel you need even more protection, wrapping an ace bandage around your forearm or purchasing a tennis elbow device will help as well in preventing injury. Also staying well hydrated (drinking water) goes along way to preventing injuries. Proper stretching and rest after any physical activity are also good injury preventing practices as well.
-
Step 5
Finally, take a few lessons to learn proper hitting technique. This to will go along way to prevent injuries and it can only improve your game! Enjoy!
