🧠 April is Stress Awareness Month, a good reminder to check in with your mental well-being and explore healthy ways to unwind. Being physically active is often recognised as a beneficial way to help manage stress, with the NHS stating that “physical activity is one of the best things you can do try and help deal with stress”.
Tennis is not only a fun and energising workout, but it also offers a number of stress-relief benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just picking up a racket for the first time, here are 4 easy and low-stress ways to enjoy tennis at the University of Bristol:
1. Hire a Court
As the weather begins to get warmer and sunnier, it’s a great opportunity to get outside and play some tennis! No matter your skill level or experience, hiring a court with us is simple and open to everyone. Whether you’re looking to play a casual game with friends, practice your serve, or just enjoy some time outdoors, our courts at Coombe Dingle Sports Complex are available to book through the UOB Active app or Sport, Exercise and Health website.
💡Members receive discount on pay-as-you-go activities!
2. Free Tennis Sessions with B:Active (students only)
B:Active is a programme of free, regular social fitness and sport sessions, exclusively for students at the University of Bristol. It provides opportunities for students to try something new, including tennis! Join us for our two Social Tennis sessions a week! Taking place at Coombe Dingle and Wills Hall, these sessions are perfect for those looking to play casual games of tennis in a relaxed and social setting.
☝️ B:Active sessions are currently taking a short break over the spring vacation period. Sessions will be back on Monday 28 April and can be booked up to 7 days in advance.
3. Coach and Play
If you’re looking to take the next step and develop your tennis skills, join us at our Coach and Play sessions! Ranging from Beginners to Improvers, these coach-led sessions will help you master your shot technique, build consistency, and gain the confidence to rally and play a match.
But, don’t just take it from us! A Coach and Play regular for over 10 years, Chris said:
“I love Coach and Play sessions. Really good coaching, good play, and good company. Learn new skills and improve your play whilst making new friends. It’s fun!” – Chris Farndon, Coach and Play participant.
4. Wheelchair Tennis
Our weekly wheelchair tennis sessions are open to everyone! Whether you use a wheelchair or would like to play tennis in a wheelchair, The Wheely Good Tennis Club (WGTC) offers the opportunity to learn more about the game, make friends and get some individual feedback about your game from Dom, our Coach, who has been working with the group for over three years.
“This is a really friendly group and Dom (Coach) manages to include people of all ages and abilities. I have a spinal cord injury and it’s great to have a session to develop my skills with the expertise of a qualified coach. At the end of the session there is enough time for playing rallies and for some points to put what has been learned into practice. It is such a good session, it’s one of the highlights of my week!”, Tom Wells, WGTC regular.
All equipment is provided, including sports chairs, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you have one.
🎾 Whether you’re looking to play tennis for fun, fitness or focus, these 4 stress-free ways are a great place to start! Find out more about our tennis programme on the Sport, Exercise and Health website.