How to get started playing tennis
There are plenty of reasons why you should pick up a racket and start playing tennis.
Tennis is a great form of exercise and an amazing sport. Anyone can play; whatever your motivation or ability, from all communities and backgrounds.
At any age and for a whole lifetime, tennis provides physical, social and mental rewards both on and off the court. Best of all, it's fun and a great way to spend time with friends and family.
Here’s our guide with everything you need to know about tennis for beginners.
Tennis is for everyone. Tennis is played by hundreds of thousands of people around Britain of all ages, backgrounds and abilities and we want you to join in on the action.
From kids starting their tennis journey to disability tennis, and even those who just want a fun way to stay fit and healthy – tennis is a sport for all and offers a wide range of physical, mental and social benefits that anyone can enjoy.
We want you to bring your own style and character to the court and Play Your Way.
Start playing
If you fancy a quick hit down the park with your friend – you can book a court just around the corner with our online tennis court booking system.
To take your game to the next level, you can get in touch and book a beginner tennis class with an local LTA Accredited coach.
Our Accredited coaches are experts in helping players of all standards improve their skills and will be on hand to help you – no matter if you just want to beat your friends in your next knock around or play in one of our competitions.
LTA Youth
If you’re a parent looking to get your kids into tennis then our LTA Youth Start programme is the perfect way to introduce them to the game.
Designed for kids aged 4-11 years who are new to tennis the course teaches kids new life skills, developing them as both players and people. For £29.99 (+£5 P&P) your kids will get six-weeks of lessons, plus a tennis racket, a set of balls and a branded t-shirt.
Barclays Free Park Tennis
No matter your age, background or ability, you can play tennis for free at a Barclays Free Park Tennis session.
Taking place every weekend at 10.00 in local park courts, its a fun way to meet new people, enjoy free exercise and practice your tennis skills, all in just a one-hour session.
Try it for free
Barclays Big Tennis Weekends are free open days at park courts, tennis clubs and other community tennis venues across Great Britain where you can try tennis for the first time or get back into the sport. The best thing is, you don't need any equipment so you can just turn up on the day.
Beginner's guides
FAQs
No, you don't need to own a tennis racket for your first lesson.
Most coaches will have equipment - such as tennis rackets, balls, etc - that you can borrow during your lesson.
If you want to join a Barclays Free Park Tennis session at your local park, everything you need will be provided for you - just sign up for free and bring the energy during your session.
If you're just getting started in tennis, it won't take you long to pick up the basics and have fun on court with friends and family.
If you want to speed up your progress, the best thing to do is get a coaching lesson or join a group class.
You can start playing tennis at any age - whether you just want to have a hit at the local park, join a group class or play for free at a Barclays Free Park Tennis session.