Extreme Tennis
Tennis is making a comeback, thanks in large part to a new program called Cardio Tennis. It involves hitting shots, jogging, calisthenics, and moving, moving, moving for an hour
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Elaine Curcio returns a shot
from instructor Joe Curcio
It’s a cardiovascular exercise mixed with an overall strengthening of the body, from your upper body to your abs, thighs, ham-strings and calves.
You also work your hand-eye coordination skills, as well as your tennis technique - the ground-stroke, approach, volley, overhand and crossover.
Early last year, Jim Baugh, president of the Tennis Industry Association, visited Hawaii to help kick off Cardio Tennis in the Islands with a workshop for local tennis professionals.
On Oahu, Cardio Tennis programs are offered by various tennis associations throughout the island. (See list below.)
“Tennis has just really gotten back into vogue,” states Somerville, who also served as the head coach for Hawaii Pacific University’s men’s and women’s tennis team from 1996 to 2005. “Here at the Oahu Club, the tennis program for adults was minimal just a few years ago as far as classes offered and attendance.
Jessica Miller: on her toes
“With Cardio Tennis coming into the picture, our programs have blossomed. In our adult league, we now have five leagues where we had only one league team a few years ago. We now have consistency with students. It’s like night and day.”
Somerville credits part of the success of Cardio Tennis to the name itself. “People just latch on to the word cardio,” he explains.
And the benefits are endless. “To prevent heart disease, you need at least 30 to 60 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise daily,” says Somerville. “With Cardio Tennis, you’re developing a skill, you’re having fun, and you’re able to get a maximum cardio workout in a fairly short period of time.”
Cardio Tennis classes offered by the USTA Hawaii Pacific:
Ala Moana Park Kalani High School Kanewai Community Park Kilauea District Park Makiki District Park Manoa District Park Pearlridge Community Park Kaneohe District Park (classes start on July 10, registration deadline July 5)
(Classes begin the week of July 24, deadline to register is July 11. Cost is $30 for six one-hour classes. Loaner racquets and balls are provided. For more information, visit www. hawaii.usta.com or call 955-6696 ext. 29)
Other sites where Cardio Tennis is offered:
The Oahu Club 395-3300 Ihilani Tennis Garden 679-0079
Hickam Tennis Facility 677-1334
Central Oahu Regional Park 677-1334
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