Get in shape with cardio tennis this summer

New at Kent Sport, members can now enjoy cardio tennis in an improved format at the University of Kent’s Canterbury campus. Cardio tennis is a fun, sociable group fitness class for players of all ages and ability and will be at the new indoor tennis centre.

With motivating music and a qualified instructor, you’ll get to hit lots of tennis balls during your class and have a great cardio workout at the same time. Tennis skills are not required but you will develop some while you enjoy a fantastic workout.

Phil May, Kent Sport’s instructor was trained in cardio tennis at the National Tennis Centre and has taught tennis for two years. He says, “This is a popular exercise programme for all sorts of people because it is energetic and really enjoyable. It will help tone and shape muscles while burning calories in a friendly group environment. The class moves along quickly, so no one will be judging your skills, and it doesn’t matter whether the ball goes in or out.”

Phil will be leading the class along with Mike Burrell. While Phil will lead on the tennis, Mike will combine with that circuit training and keep participants motivated. The tennis balls used are 70% soft sponge compression balls so everyone can participate with complete confidence.

A typical 45 minute class consists of a short warm up and cool down either side of a full body workout. The warm up involves stretching, skills and drills to get your body warm and mind focused before the workout begins. The aerobic section is your chance to hit loads of shots, including forehands, backhands, serves and volleys, all mixed with a variety of fitness activities. Then you can put your shots into practice with some fun group tennis games. This will all be followed by a cool down and some more stretching.

So if you want to burn lots of calories while having a great time this is for you! The first session is on Thursday 9 May at 12.15pm and for additional cardio tennis times and dates visit http://www.kent.ac.uk/sports/health/timetable. You can book a place up to a week ahead by calling 01227 823623 or at Kent Sport receptions at the Sports Centre or Pavilion. Or you can just turn up to the class at the indoor tennis courts, but please note that spaces are limited. Please ensure you arrive five minutes early to the class. This class is free to Kent Sport members or PAYG rates apply.

For a further idea of what this is all about you can watch BBC sports presenter Mike Bushell checking out a cardio tennis session: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p00vm6gr

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