Engaging Warm-Up Tennis Games for Kids

by | Tennis Coaching

 

3 Exciting Tennis Games for Kids: Perfect Warm-Up for Beginners

Table of Contents

Intro to warm-up tennis games for kids

The following games are not just about getting the heart rate up; they’re essential for developing important skills like footwork, speed, balance, and hand-eye coordination.
As parents and coaches, we want our young athletes to enjoy the game while learning the fundamentals.
So, let’s dive into three of our favorite warm-up games that will get the kids excited and ready to play!

Warm-up tennis game #1: Bounce It!

Our first game is called “Bounce It!” It’s a fantastic way to improve hand-eye coordination while keeping the kids engaged. Here’s how it works:

  • Start by having two players positioned on opposite sides of the court.
  • The coach feeds the ball to one player, and their goal is to keep the ball bouncing on their side using only their racket – no hands allowed!
  • Once they feel confident, they can send the ball over to the other player’s side.
  • The key rule? If the ball rolls on their side, the other player scores a point!

This game emphasizes racket control and helps the kids get used to the feel of the ball. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up those muscles!

Warm-up tennis game #2: Caterpillar

Next up is “Caterpillar,” a game that focuses on lateral movement and quick footwork. This one’s a blast and gets the kids moving!

  • The coach, at the service line, gets ten balls set up next to him. The players, who will start behind the baseline, are facing the coach.
  • The coach will roll the balls towards the baseline, one by one, changing the direction of each ball, while the kids move laterally allowing each ball to pass between their feet spread wide.
  • Encourage them to stay low and keep their knees bent for better balance and speed.

This drill is all about agility and getting those quick feet moving!

Warm-up tennis game #3: Royal Court

Finally, we have “Royal Court,” a game that combines catching skills with a competitive edge. Here’s how it works:

  • Players start at the back fence with their rackets down.
  • One by one, call out a player’s name and toss the ball high into the air.
  • The player must catch the ball after one bounce and quickly place it on their racket strings.
  • The first one to catch and place five balls on their racket wins!

This game not only enhances catching skills but also teaches kids to react quickly and adjust their positioning based on the ball’s bounce. It’s a fun competition that kids love!

caterpillar - fun tennis game for kids

FAQ

What age group are these games suitable for?

These warm-up games are perfect for kids aged 10 and under, as they are designed to be fun and engaging while developing essential tennis skills.

How long should each game last?

Each game can last about 2-7 minutes, allowing kids to warm up effectively without losing interest. Feel free to adjust the time based on their energy levels!

Can these tennis games be played in larger groups?

Absolutely! These games can easily be adapted to large groups of players. The more kids, the more fun they will have. I would not recommend more than 6 young players in a group though.

Where can I find more tennis coaching resources?

If you’re looking for comprehensive coaching lessons, drills, and tips, check out the WT24 Coaching membership. It’s a great resource for coaches and parents wanting to teach their kids tennis!

Are there more videos available on tennis coaching?

You can find additional related videos on our YouTube channel, such as Kids Tennis Coaching Lessons and Tennis Coaching Tips.

 

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

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