Racket sports

Beach tennis

Doubles tennis on sand with paddle bats and no bounce.

  • Moderateintensity
  • ~420kcal per hour
  • Low costbudget
  • Mediumimpact
Beach tennis illustration

Is beach tennis right for you?

Doubles tennis on sand with paddle bats and no bounce. It is a moderate-intensity, medium impact activity that you can do outdoors, with a partner or in a group. Expect to burn around 420 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.

Easy to pick up. Expect to spend up to about £20 a month.

Why try beach tennis

  • Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
  • Sociable. It is an easy way to meet people and have fun.
  • Teaches a skill. There is always something new to learn, which keeps it interesting.

How to start beach tennis

  1. Look for a beach tennis session or play at a sandy court near you.

  2. Get the basics: paddle bat. Borrow or hire before you buy.

  3. Keep the first few sessions short and easy, and aim for two or three a week.

  4. Warm up for five minutes first, build up gradually and stop if anything hurts.

A 4-week starter plan

WeekSessionsMinutes eachFocus
1220Learn the basics and keep every session easy.
2325Repeat last week and add a little time.
3330Add a session or make one a bit harder.
4340Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next.

This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.

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