Why I Play the “Healthiest Sport” in the World

I started playing tennis in high school.
And let me be clear — I was terrible.

I have a vague memory of being on the team, and my picture is in the yearbook, so I guess it’s true. But back in 1989–1991, things were... different. We didn’t have matching outfits, team-building dinners, or intense practices. Honestly, I think my tennis coach also doubled as the band teacher — I distinctly remember him teaching me the clarinet.

It was all a bit fuzzy and low-key.

Picking Up the Racquet Again

Fast forward to 2007.
I’m not sure what motivated me, but one day, I decided to pick up a racquet again. And this time, it was different.

This was the first exercise I had ever done that actually felt fun.
I hustled for balls (which is saying a lot, because I’m usually not that competitive). I wanted to win. I had that eye of the tiger moment for the first time ever.

And let’s be honest — the local tennis club’s $2 childcare didn’t hurt. I could drop the kids off in a very retro 70s-style playroom and hit the courts for an hour and a half. Bliss.

Something clicked. I was hooked.

Why Tennis Feels So Good

While I’ve improved over the years, there’s still a long way to go — and that’s the beauty of it. Tennis is one of those sports you can always get better at.

And when I read recently that tennis is considered the healthiest sport you can play, I wasn’t surprised. Studies show that playing tennis can add nearly 10 years to your life compared to a sedentary lifestyle.

Think about it: it’s a full-body workout that challenges your heart, lungs, and every major muscle group. It sharpens your focus, reduces stress, and keeps your brain engaged. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of smashing a clean overhead winner.

The Best Part: The People

What keeps me coming back, though, isn’t just the workout — it’s the community.
The friends I’ve met through tennis have become some of my favorite people.

There’s a special camaraderie among players — that mix of competitiveness, laughter, and encouragement. And yes, I’ve been humbled plenty of times by gray-haired grandmas who can slice and spin me right off the court. It’s the best reminder that age means nothing when you love what you’re doing.

Game On

So whether you’re thinking about picking up a racquet for the first time, or you’ve been playing for years — you’re in good company.

Tennis is more than a sport. It’s connection, movement, and joy — all rolled into one.

Game on. 🎾