Saturday, December 8, 2007

Tennis Elbow

I've always been interested in learning tennis. A few months ago I started taking beginner classes. It is so exciting to see how someone's ability can improve by practicing. Other than these classes, I don't have a partner to practice tennis with. That really bites! On top of that, it is winter!

First few weeks, I was using the racket that the instructor gave me. I had a serious elbow pain for several days. My hand was shaking, I could not hold a pencil in my hand. Then I learned, it is because of several things:

-The racket I was using was too heavy
-The grip was too big for me
-I was holding the racket too tight
-I was only using my arm, rather than whole body

After about 4 weeks, my pain stopped. During this time, I bought a very light racket, lightest on the market I think. Prince -Air Light. 8.5 oz, Oversize, Length 27.5 inch. Great for beginners like me. I found the right grip size. Here is one of the web sites that show how to find out the right grip size. Second, I guess I've improved in holding and swinging right, and the problem is solved by itself.




During this first few weeks, I used Sportopedics Elbow Strap, it really helped me, especially because I needed to hold a pen.

Playing doubles is really fun. The problem is, how can I find 3 other people while I can't even find one person to play singles :)