Serious Tennis

Book excerpt: Serious Tennis is the most comprehensive tennis resource, containing expert instruction on each facet of the game. Learn with the world's top instructors as they provide insights into modern tennis technique, training methods, and match strategy. Combining the sport's latest physical conditioning methods with its most advanced mental training techniques, this book enables you to reach your full potential, regardless of skill level. Top international tennis instructor Scott Williams presents his SMARTS system for perfecting stroke technique. The system includes the following: - Seeing - Movement - Adjusting - Rotation - Transfer - Swing In Serious Tennis, Williams breaks down the four main skill groups in the SMARTS system: stroking skills, playing skills, mental skills, and preparatory skills. He then identifies three phases of development-the core phase, the mileage phase, and the fine-tuning phase-that all players should follow to improve their game. During the first phase, stroking and playing skills are sharpened on the practice court. Once in the mileage phase, techniques such as consistency, placement, and court positioning are tested during game situations. The fine-tuning phase focuses on preparatory skills such as conditioning, nutrition, sleep, and the mental skills you need to consistently win. This approach allows intermediate and advanced players to be in a continual mode of physical and mental progression to truly enhance their skills and tactical understanding of the game. From improving shot selections to performing under pressure, this book covers every aspect of the game. Become the player you've always wanted to be with Serious Tennis.