---

Q: I often lose my temper when I play a bad shot or get a bad line call and it affects my game. Is there anything I can do about this?

A: You need to play with a calm intensity.

You have to find a level within yourself where you can still play your best but if things don’t go your way you can accept that and you don't start swearing and throwing your racket around.

Walk around between points, straighten your strings, give yourself a moment to get your emotions under control.

Keep analyzing your opponent's game and think about what positive steps you can take to get back into the match.

Don’t waste energy getting mad.

Try not to show any signs of emotion — that will only give your opponent a psychological edge.

If you play a bad shot and lose the point don't beat yourself up too bad.

If you play a good shot to win a point, don't celebrate like you’ve won the championship.

Each shot’s worth the same so if you do play a winner, pat yourself quietly on the back and move one.

If you make an unforced error or you think you got a bad call, don’t let it play on your mind. Collect yourself and move on.

The best players have a poker face or a ‘game face’. If you look at Roger Federer he never goes over the top, or lets his emotions show, until the game is over.

Gym work

hinders my reach

Q: I’ve been to the gym to try and improve my strength. My serve has become stronger but my reach for some shots has become more limited. Any tips?

A: When you get in the gym it’s tempting to stack on as much weight as you can lift and try and prove how strong you are.

But remember, you’re not lifting to add bulk. There are a lot of bulky guys in the gym. Not many of them are good tennis players.

You need to lift lighter weights for more repetitions - concentrate on performing the movements with correct form.

That way you improve your strength without it having an adverse effect on your agility - crucial when you're reaching for those high volleys.

Remember to stretch on a regular basis to retain muscle flexibility, which is also very important in tennis.

Quick tip of the week: Knock-up with your partner, keeping the ball between the double lines and deeper than the service line. The drill will improve your accuracy and your ability to measure the length of your strokes.

[[In-content Ad]]

---