RECOVERY

IN TENNIS
A GUIDE TO IMPROVING PERFORMANCE AND
LIMITING INJURY THROUGH IMPROVED RECOVERY
IN TR OD UC TION

This Recovery in Tennis booklet is a culmination of a multi-

year project undertaken by the Sport Science Committee of
the United States Tennis Association (USTA). Recovery is
a complex paradigm focusing on recovery from training —
session to session, day to day and week to week. Recovery is
also vitally important during training as well as in competition
between matches and between days during multi-day
tournaments. As more information is needed in the area of
tennis specific recovery, the Sport Science Committee of the
USTA sponsored an extensive evidence-based review of the
available literature on tennis-specific recovery and this booklet
is a summary of a larger document (approximately 400 pages)
which has been compiled into a book titled TENNIS RECOVERY:
A Comprehensive Review of Research. This book is focused
on eight areas of tennis specific recovery, and below are the
chapter topics and authors (who are all world leading experts in
their specific areas of tennis and/or recovery).

Please see the following link for access to the full electronic version of the book
- TENNIS RECOVERY: A Comprehensive Review of Research
TA B LE O F C ON TEN TS
And authors of original chapters

A N O R MA L MATCH 4
FAT IG UE 6
P E R IOD IZ ATI ON 8

H E AT & H Y DRAT I O N Mark Kovacs, PhD 9

(USTA Sport Science)

P SY C HOLO GY Kristen Dieffenbach, PhD 11

(West Virginia University)

P HY S IOL OGI CA L William J. Kraemer, PhD 13

Shawn D. Flanagan, BA
Gwendolyn A. Thomas, MA
(University of Connecticut)

NU T R IT IO N Susie Parker-Simmons, RD 14
(USOC Nutritionist)

COACHING ASPECTS Angela Calder, MA (Hons) 17

(Australian Institute of Sport and The University of the Sunshine Coast)

M U S CU LO S KE LE TA L W. Ben Kibler, MD 20
(Lexington Sports Medicine Center & the USTA Sport Science Committee)
Aaron Sciascia, MS
(Lexington Sports Medicine Center)
Todd Ellenbecker, DPT
(Physiotherapy Associates, ATP Tour & the USTA Sport Science Committee)

Y OU NG AT HL ETE Ellen Rome, MD 21

(Adolescent Medicine, Cleveland Clinic & the USTA Sport Science Committee)
Gordon Blackburn, PhD
(Cleveland Clinic)

M ED IC A L Margo Putukian, MD 22
(Head of Athletic Medicine, Princeton University)
A N ORM AL
MATCH
s MINUTESTOHOURS

A N ORM AL
MATCH s %XERCISETORESTRATIOSRANGEBETWEENn
s  SECONDSRESTBETWEENPOINTSAND SECONDS
every change of ends
s !NAVERAGEPOINTENCOMPASSES STROKESWITHAN
AVERAGEOFDIRECTIONALCHANGES
s %LITEPLAYERSRUNANAVERAGEOFMETERSPERSHOT
WITH METERSPERPOINT
s  HIGH INTENSITYEFFORTSPERhBESTOFSETvMATCH
s 0OINTDURATIONTYPICALLYLASTLESSTHANSECONDS

Competitive players usually compete in between 15-30 tournaments per year,

which results in 50-150 competitive singles matches and the possibility of
more than 50 doubles matches per year.

Recovery is often overlooked, or worse

taken for granted. Time alone may provide
recovery, but most of the time tennis
athletes do not have enough time to recover
sufficiently. The purpose of this booklet is to
provide both information and tips on recovery
for the tennis player.

44
Training alone does not result in improved performance.
It is only achieved when matched with proper recovery.

Peak/
Supercompensation
Loading/
Recovery New Baseline
Overreaching

Baseline
Overload

Overtrained
Too much – trained too hard,
too little recovery or both

Training, Recovery and Overtraining Diagram

FAT IG UE
Fatigue – sensation of tiredness associated
with decrements in muscular and nervous
system performance and function. In tennis
this fatigue presents itself as a decrease in
stroke accuracy, stroke mechanics, serve
velocity, court movement, increase in errors,
poor shot selection, increased mental
frustration and mental errors.

5
 TYPE OF FATIGUE M A I N CA U S E S F O R FAT I GUE

▶ Long training sessions ( > 60 minutes)

▶ Playing several matches a day
METABOLIC FATIGUE (e.g. singles and doubles)
(Energy Stores) ▶ Cumulative fatigue from training or competing over
many days

▶ After short, high intensity sessions, (e.g. weights,

NEUROLOGICAL FATIGUE plyometrics, complex skill execution, etc.)
▶ After long training sessions
PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
FATIGUE (PNS) ▶ Several matches over consecutive days

(muscles)

NEUROLOGICAL FATIGUE ▶ Low blood glucose levels

▶ High pressured training session – especially involving
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM rapid decision making and reactions
FATIGUE (CNS) ▶ Poor motivation (e.g. monotony of training, emotional
factors, injury etc.)
(brain)

▶ Personality conflicts

PSYCHOLOGICAL FATIGUE ▶ Competition pressures, event venue, residential conditions,

parents, coach, media, etc.
(emotional, social, cultural)
▶ Other lifestyle stresses – home, school exams, personal
relationships

▶ Weather (e.g. wind, heat and sun) may increase fatigue

▶ Disruption of normal routines (e.g. sleep, waking and
meal times)
ENVIRONMENTAL
& TRAVEL FATIGUE ▶ Sedentary and restricted body movement on long journeys
▶ Adapting to different climates and time zones

6
E XP RESSION O F TH I S FAT IG UE T E NNI S EX A M P L E S

▶ Player fatigues sooner than is normal ▶ Lethargic body language

▶ Player struggles to complete a session or event ▶ Walking slower than normal
▶ Slower response to chasing balls

▶ Reduced localized force production ▶ Slow feet

(e.g. slower responses, reduced power)
▶ Reduced acceleration
▶ Poor technique and coordination.
▶ Abnormal number of technical mistakes
▶ Reduced power in shots & strokes

▶ Lack of drive ▶ Loses concentration quickly

▶ Slower at processing visual cues ▶ Slower at decision making
▶ Slower anticipation timing (e.g. speed and placement
of opponents serve or return)

▶ Player loses self-confidence or self esteem ▶ Player shows a definite lack in confidence during
play and also off court
▶ Increased signs of anxiety, negative attitudes, etc.
▶ More negative than usual, especially in self-talk and
body language
▶ Change in player communication

▶ Players are slower to start ▶ Player takes longer than usual to get rhythm
on court.
▶ Fatigue sooner than normal
▶ Unforced errors in the first 15 min. are well
▶ Visual fatigue from bright or glaring sunlight above normal
▶ Tired eyes and eye strain
▶ Poor tracking of the ball

Information adapted from Calder, 2004

7
 More than 200 potential physical and psychological
symptoms are connected with overtraining and
ineffective recovery.

PERI O DIZ AT ION Periodization is the cyclical pattern of Researchers have found that, in junior
alternating progressive training loads with competitive tennis, there are high levels of
appropriate recovery to improve an athlete’s burnout due to combination of factors, but
performance. The focus on improved training one major factor is excessive physical and
has led to great increases in performance, mental volume without adequate recovery.
yet without appropriate focus on recovery,
athletes will never reach their potential Numerous recovery modalities are available,
which could result in minor and major and coaches and players have tried hundreds
negative consequences such as injury, of different techniques to improve recovery;
apathy and burnout. however, very few have been subjected to
rigorous scientific examination.

More than 25% of all

Olympians report being
overtrained for the
Olympics – even the best
athletes in the world
struggle to
find the fine-
line between
pushing
themselves to
the limit without
overstepping
to the point of
overtraining
and negative
performance.

8
 As little as a 2% loss
in body weight, due to
dehydration, can have
a major negative effect
on muscle strength
and power.

H E AT A ND Post-training or match hydration has three

major purposes:
H YD RAT I ON - Replace fluid volume to an equal or
slightly greater extent than the volume
lost while sweating

- Drink liquid carbohydrates to aid in glucose

uptake to the muscles

- Replace electrolytes lost during sweating

Many tennis players go into practice and/or

competition already dehydrated. This results During multi-day tournaments or practice,
it is common for players to experience a
R ISK FA CTO RS in the possibility of problems during play, but
subtle but gradual sodium deficit and this can
FOR it also slows recovery.
result in heat and hydration related problems
E X ERC ISE It is recommended to consume smaller (exhaustion, cramping etc) towards the later
A SSOCIATE D volumes of fluid in a more regular basis rounds of tournament.
HYP O N AT REM I A during recovery. An example would be if you
were to drink 32oz of fluid in the 60 minutes
following a two hour match, it would be HY PO N AT R EMIA
Athlete Risk Factors recommended to consume 4-8oz every 10
minutes, rather than consume one or two Athletes may be susceptible to a rare but
larger doses of fluid. dangerous condition called hyponatremia
s %XCESSIVEDRINKINGOF if recovery following single or repetitive
plain water with little/no Athletes drink more fluid if it is flavored. Studies exhaustive tennis matches does not take
consumption of salty drinks have shown as much as 30% more fluid is into account proper fluid and salt intake.
or food consumed with flavored drinks as opposed to Hyponatremia exists when sodium levels
plain water. Flavored, carbohydrate-electrolyte are below a normal range in the body and is
drinks are more effective in promoting post- typically the result of sweating out sodium,
s 7EIGHTGAINDURINGEXERCISE exercise re hydration than plain water, or low- while drinking high volumes of plain water.
electrolyte diet cola. This results in a dilution of the sodium in the
blood and can cause serious health problems.
s ,OWERBODYWEIGHT Many athletes do not consume enough sodium
individuals in their regular diet to support strenuous
physical activity, especially in early stages of PRACTICAL SUMMARIES
training and in hot and/or humid environments.
Having recovery drinks and food that contain If a tennis player has to follow-up a
Environmental or practice or match within one to two hours,
Match Risk Factors sufficient levels of sodium is helpful for a
number of purposes: it is recommended that a sports drink be
consumed with between 600-900mg of
s HOURSOFEXERCISE - Replaces the sodium that is lost in sweat sodium per 32oz of fluid.

- Stimulates glucose (energy) absorption by To prevent post match hydration problems,

s 5NUSUALLYHOTCONDITIONS the muscles it is recommended that pre and post-match
hydration is appropriate (see USTA Heat and
- Increases the athletes drive to drink Hydration Booklet for more information)
- May reduce the symptoms of exertional Heart rate, body temperature and hydration
heat cramps, exertional heat exhaustions level are interrelated, and it is important to
ANDEXERTIONALHYPONATREMIA reduce core temperature and lower heart rate
during recovery to help speed the recovery
process along with the hydration components.

9
 HEAT AND HYDRATION RECOVERY
BEST PRACTICES

Consume approximately one regular

size bottle (20oz) of fluid per pound of To improve recovery
AFTER PRACTICE bodyweight lost within the previous aspects, hydration
OR MATCH match. Adding carbohydrates and
protein in the recovery fluid can also strategies should seek
aid in recovery (see nutrition section). to optimize hydration
status continuously,
AT THE END OF A Continue to hydrate and check your and not solely around
urine color to ensure you have color in
TOURNAMENT DAY the range of 1, 2 or 3. competition schedules.

AFTER A Check urine color the day proceeding

the tournament and make sure that
TOURNAMENT urine color is appropriate.

AM I HYDRATED?
URIN E C OL O R C H A RT

10
 Overtraining is rarely the problem. The typical limiting
factor in tennis training is inadequate recovery.

PSYCHOLOGICAL S TA L ENE SS BURN O UT

ASPECTS is a good cue that the current training may manifest as psychological, emotional or
plan may need to be altered. Staleness is physical withdrawal from sport occurs. The
OF associated with lower levels of performance, obvious cases of burnout are individuals who
R E C OV ERY mood changes, psychological fatigue,
inability to maintain focus, lower sense of
stop playing or competing. However, more
prevalent are individuals who continue to
enjoyment, higher frustration and sleep practice and compete in tournaments, but
disturbances. These symptoms may appear they have less than optimal mind-set, high
even before physical symptoms are present. levels of stress and as a result often play less
than effective tennis.

FA CTORS T HAT
ARE C OR R E L AT E D COMMON PSYCHOLOGICAL SIGNS
WI TH H I GH ER R I S K AND SYMPTOMS OF OVERTRAINING
OF BUR N OUT:
s)NDIVIDUALSWITHPERFECTIONIST
s)NCREASEDANGER s-ENTALEXHAUSTION
tendencies
s)NCREASEDIRRITABILITY s%MOTIONALEXHAUSTION
s.EGATIVEPARENTALINVOLVEMENT
s)NCREASEDDEPRESSION s$ECREASEDSELF ESTEEM
s)NDIVIDUALSWHOFEELTHEYHAVE
less input in training s2EDUCEDMOTIVATION s3ADNESS
s0ERCEIVEDHIGHEXPECTATIONS
from key individuals

s,ESSLIKELYTOUSEPLANNING
strategies such as goal setting
The greater the distance between the demands of
training and the resources for recovery, the greater
the risk of overtraining.

11
 THE FOLLOWING SEVEN CATEGORIES CAN HELP REDUCE STRESS DURING RECOVERY.

perception that one is listening without giving unrequested advise

LISTENING SUPPORT or being judgmental

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT perceptions of unconditional care and comfort

EMOTIONAL CHALLENGE perception of being challenged to evaluate individual attitudes,

SUPPORT values and feelings for the purpose of positive growth

REALITY CONFIRMATION perception that someone else sees things in a similar manner or
SUPPORT has had a similar experience

TASK APPRECIATION SUPPORT acknowledgement of efforts

perceived motivational guidance and support to help the athlete

TASK CHALLENGE SUPPORT improve a skill or effort

PERSONAL ASSISTANCE perceptions of financial or tangible support such as funds

SUPPORT or transportation

Psychological overtraining is difficult to

measure as the lines between hard training
and working through adverse conditions to
achieve a goal may be blurred.

Early detection of changes in mood, self-

confidence, energy level and sleep all can
help prevent training slumps. One of the best
methods of improving recovery habits and
reducing the likelihood of overtraining is
appropriate athlete education. Empowering
athletes with symptom awareness and self-
monitoring will help.

12
 Largely eccentric focused exercise requires
greater recovery.

PH Y S I O LO G ICAL Physiological fatigue occurs when power

output cannot be maintained or physiological
There is a constant balance between
body and muscle protein breakdown and
ASPECTS homeostasis cannot be achieved in a given set rebuilding. During exercise — especially
of physiological systems. Although research exercise involving a high eccentric
OF is still limited on physiological fatigue and component, such as starting and stopping
R E C OV ERY recovery, it is apparent that it is a combination
of both central and peripheral factors.
frequently, changing directions, decelerating,
and strength training — this balance is
shifted to muscle breakdown whereas
Emphasis should be placed on training that during recovery the balance needs to shift to
develops physiological resistance to fatigue expedited muscle rebuilding.
and improves the physiological ability to
repair damage to tissues. Training attempts
to avoid major muscle problems (strains)
while inducing enough muscular stress - if
provided the appropriate recovery - will
result in positive adaptations, but does try
to induce enough muscular stress that,
if provided the appropriate recovery, will
result in positive adaptations.

D ELAYED O N S E T DOMS arises from the damage and repair Neurological Demands
processes that result from unaccustomed
MU SC L E SO REN E S S exercise with a high eccentric focus. The Neurological fatigue is difficult to measure
duration of DOMS is directly related to the but is in direct response to stressful activities
(D OM S) exercise overload, amount of tissue damage involving large volumes of high power and
and the fitness level of the athlete. Typically force activities. Neurological fatigue could
pain is at its peak between 24-72 hours, but it occur at both the central nervous system
can last as long as 10 days. (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS).
PNS fatigue can be monitored by muscle
contraction rates at the muscle. Muscle
activation should be higher in non-fatigued
muscles than fatigued muscles, thus creating
an objective assessment of recovery state.

Performance tests that measure explosive

exercise — vertical jump, long jump, single-
effort medicine ball throw for distance — are
a great method of monitoring neurological
fatigue. Although these are indirect
measurements, such tests do provide a
coach with an immediate snapshot of an
athlete’s recovery status from a nervous
system fatigue perspective.

Intervention strategies

To reduce DOMS while protecting against

muscle damage, athletes should engage in
exercises that provide different ranges of
tennis-relevant motions with progressive
eccentric loading. Heavy resistance training
should be followed by 1-2 days of rest for the
involved muscles and joints.
NUTR I T I O N AL The major goals of nutritional recovery
include:
Consuming high glycemic carbohydrates
(simple sugars) during recovery can result
AS P E C T S - Replenish glycogen (muscle and liver
in a 50% greater rate of muscle glycogen
resynthesis than the ingestion of low
OF energy) stores glycemic carbohydrates.
R E C OV ERY - Restore appropriate fluid and
electrolyte levels Nutrient Timing

- Create new muscle proteins Researchers have shown a nutritional

window of opportunity where glycogen
- Restoration of the immune system resynthesis and protein repair occurs at
a greater rate. This window is within 45
As little as 10 grams of essential amino acids minutes of completing physical training or
before and after physical training may help competition; during this time frame it is vital
jump start protein synthesis and repair. In that tennis players consume high glycemic
prolonged exercise, such as tennis play carbohydrate fuels with a reasonable
greater than 90 minutes, fatigue is closely amount of protein (including essential amino
associated with low muscle glycogen and acids) to help speed glycogen resynthesis,
blood glucose levels. as well as protein rebuilding. Research
has shown that replacing fuel within this
The American College of Sport Medicine window, as opposed to waiting two or
position statement on nutritional requirements three hours after physical activity, reduces
for athletes suggests consuming between 30- recovery time and improved fuel stores. This
60 grams (120-240 calories) of carbohydrates difference could be as high as 47%.
per hour of exercise. If consuming a standard
carbohydrate/electrolyte sport drink, this Ingesting between 6-20 grams of protein is
would equate to between 600-1200ml/hour recommended during this recovery window.
(20-40oz/hour), or this amount could also A 4:1 carbohydrate to protein ratio is also a
be consumed with a combination of fluid good general recommendation for the food/
and solid food such as nutritional bars. The fuel source during the recovery period.
timing of on-court nutrition during practice
or competition should be in small regular
intervals every 10-20 minutes at changeovers.

14
E RGO G E N IC A I DS Ergogenic aids are external additions that may CAFF E INE
improve performance. Nutritional ergogenic
V ERSUS aids are referred to as supplements There Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant
SUPP LEM E N T S are several problems with sport supplements: that can be found in coffee, tea, caffeinated
there is a lack of research that supports soda, and chocolate in dosages typically
marketing claims; the supplement industry is between 30-200mg of caffeine. A large
poorly regulated, thereby allowing misleading strong coffee could have more than 200mg
claims; up to 30% of sport supplements may of caffeine. Although caffeine has been
contain substances that are not listed in studied extensively in many sports, showing
the ingredients, and that may be banned by a multitude of physical improvements in
various anti-doping agencies. At the higher strength, power, speed and endurance, the
levels of junior, collegiate and professional data is limited in tennis players. The few
tennis, tainted supplementation could studies that have been conducted have not
result in a positive drug test. Players are shown positive performance improvements in
100% responsible for any products that are tennis players. Recent research on caffeine
consumed, and a tainted supplement is not a and dehydration show limited evidence
defense for a failed drug test. of caffeine having a negative response
to thermoregulation or hydration status
Although thousands of products are in dosages between 300-400mg per day.
marketed as potentially performance However, caffeine is not a supplement that is
enhancing for athletes, there are five recommended for tennis play or competition,
supplements (creatine, caffeine, electrolyte but under appropriate guidance, may have
drinks, sodium bicarbonate, protein) that some positive effects for off-court training
have enough scientific evidence and for adult players. Large dosages (>500mg per
longevity to discuss. Supplements do not day) need to be discouraged, as this could
replace proper training and recovery, but have detrimental effects on heart rate, fine
may be incorporated into a well-developed motor control, technique, over-arousal and
program. Coaches, parents and players hydration level. Not enough data is available
should consult with a physician or sport on children and thus caffeine should not be a
nutritionist prior to beginning a supplement. supplement used by junior tennis players.
Athletes who may be drug tested (national
and international junior, collegiate or
professional athletes) need to understand
that the Tennis Anti-Doping Program, World CRE ATINE
Anti-Doping Agency, and US Anti-Doping
Program assume that all athletes are Creatine is a naturally occurring compound
responsible for what they have consumed, found in skeletal muscle and is found in dietary
even a tainted supplement that contains a sources of meat and fish. Short-term creatine
banned substance. For more information see supplementation has been shown to enhance
the following websites: the performance of exercise involving
repeated sprints or bouts of high intensity
US Anti-Doping Agency exercise, separated by short recovery times.
www.usada.org However, studies specifically in tennis have
ITF Tennis Anti-Doping Program not shown an improvement in stroke quality.
www.itftennis.com/antidoping/ The long-term consequences of creatine use
are still unknown, but it is not recommended
World Anti-Doping Agency for individuals under the age of 18, and
www.wada-ama.org adult players should check with qualified
personal (physicians, exercise physiologists
or nutritionists) to see whether creatine
may be a suitable addition to their training
and competition arsenal. From a recovery
standpoint, creatine may provide faster
recovery from short high intensity workouts
such as strength training or sprint workouts.
15
 NUTRITION RECOVERY BEST PRACTICES

Consume approximately 200-400 calories of

a carbohydrate:protein drink or snack with
AFTER an approximate 4:1 carbohydrate to protein
PRACTICE ratio. Good sources of this are chocolate milk,
a commercial recovery shake, or a 6-inch
OR sandwich with meat/fish. Follow this recovery
1. Optimize Nutritional Status
MATCH snack within three hours with a more substantial
meal (i.e. chicken, rice and salad, pasta with
Regularly checking nutritional status chicken/fish and vegetables)
via blood, body composition and urine
analysis by a trained professional is
recommended at least once per year.
Continue to hydrate and check your urine color to
2. Carbohydrate Intake ensure you have adequately hydrated. Consume
Consume 30-60 grams of a good dinner with a high carbohydrate, medium
carbohydrates per hour of play. protein, low-medium fat meal. Some good
examples include pasta with chicken/fish and
3. Protein Intake
AT THE END vegetables, steak/chicken/fish and potatoes,
Consume 6-20 grams of protein
OF A rice, beans and salad, eggs and potatoes.
immediately post-training or TOURNAMENT
After dinner and before bed, it may be important
competition. DAY to consume a light snack of slow releasing
4. Timing is Important
carbohydrate and a moderate amount of protein.
Some good examples include a commercial low
Start your nutritional recovery within sugar shake, some tuna and crackers, a glass
45 minutes of finishing your training of milk.
session or tournament match.

5. Hydrate Appropriately and Often

6. Extremely Cautious Consume similar foods to during a tournament

AFTER A scenario, but it is advisable to increase the fruit
With Ergogenic Aids or Supplements. content of the diet. Specifically foods that contain
TOURNAMENT high amounts of vitamin C and antioxidants
7. Seek Professional Assistance (oranges and variety of berries).
As a qualified tennis coach it is
important to provide knowledgeable
instruction about technique and
tactics. A qualified physician, sport
scientist or sport nutritionist with
a strong tennis-specific nutritional GRAMS OF
FOOD SOURCE
background should aid in providing of
individual nutritional advise.
CARBOHYDRATES

SPORT DRINK – 16oz 30 grams

SPORT GEL – 1 pack 20-38 grams

SPORT BAR – 1 25-55 grams

SPORT BEANS/SHOTS – 1oz 25 grams

BANANA – 1 medium 28 grams

16
PR AC T I C A L SLEEP RE ST D AY S
C OA C H I NG Although sleep is an area that is not yet well Athletes require a rest day at least once
understood, it could be the most important weekly, and sometimes twice weekly. A rest
ASPECTS form of recovery. A good night sleep between day should not include sitting for the majority
OF 7-9 hours provides invaluable adaptation
time to adjust the physical, neurological,
of the day. It is important for the athlete to
be mobile during the day. It could be a good
R E C OV ERY immunological and emotional stressors time to socialize with friends, go to the mall,
that are experienced during the day. Some play another sport (that is not physically as
athletes, especially during major growth taxing – i.e. golf), walk, cycle or swim at a pool
spurts, may need 10 hours or more of sleep. or the beach. However, limiting excessive
However, too much sleep can be detrimental sun exposure would be encouraged (hat,
to performance, as it can slow down the sunglasses and sun-screen should be used).
central nervous system. Short naps during
the day of 15-30 minutes are beneficial
and can improve alertness, perception
and performance. Longer naps are not as
beneficial and can result in the player feeling
sluggish and groggy.

17
 WA RM-WATE R C O LD -WATE R
o
Taking a warm/hot bath in body-temperature It is recommended that a range of 10 C –
o o o o o
neutral (34 C - 36 C / 93 F - 97 F) water 15 C for cold water is the optimal range for
results in marked changes in the circulatory, cooling soft tissues. Colder temperatures
pulmonary, renal and musculoskeletal used for long periods risk damage to soft
systems. The effects have been shown to tissues and are not recommended for
be most pronounced for whole body (head sporting contexts. Cold water immersion
out) immersion rather than partial immersion reduces the sensations of DOMS in
(a single limb or lower body immersion). trained athletes. Typically 10-15 minutes is
Studies have indicated that increased recommended.
H Y DROT HE RA P I E S hydrostatic pressure leads to a shift of blood
from the lower regions of the body to the
thoracic region during immersion. The net SAUNA S
result is an increase in muscular blood flow
without an increase in heart rate. Alternating Sauna use (hot and dry heat) is not well
from cool to warm water immersion can understood and can be misused by athletes.
accelerate metabolic activity, as indicated The traditional protocol involves a warm
by faster clearance of blood lactate and shower followed by a sauna for 5 minutes
o o
creatine kinase (which is a marker of muscle (40 C) with cold plunge (10 C) for 30-60
damage) through an increase in muscle seconds, repeated 3-5 times. The aim is to
blood flow. depress activity in the central nervous system
to prevent over-stimulation following high
intensity training. There is a lack of published
S H OW E R ING research on the performance benefits of sauna
use, and such use is not recommended for use
Showering within 5-10 minutes after the by young athletes. Certain national training
end of the training session can accelerate centers restrict the use of saunas to athletes
recovery. If pool access is available, over 15 years of age.
performing active and static stretching
(5-20 minutes) is also beneficial.
SP O RT M ASS AGE
S PA S Although massage does feel good and
provides a sensation of reducing tight
Spa use has had little scientific investigation muscles, little scientific evidence is available
and most reports are anecdotal. No to support claims such as improved
definitive guidelines for time or even water blood flow, improved muscle strength, or
temperature have been set, but excessive significant reductions in muscle soreness.
time-periods in hot water can leave the However, many studies have shown an
athlete feeling lethargic and “flat” improvement in psychological factors such
as mood and well-being.

C O MP RE SSIVE
CL OT HING
Compressive garments have been shown
in certain circumstances to reduce injuries,
benefit performance and enhance recovery.
The benefits stem from graduated pressures
which extend from the limbs to the core of
the body. Studies have shown reductions
in post-exercise muscle damage following
eccentric work (stop and start movements,
deceleration activities), muscle soreness,
and aid recovery of soft-tissue injuries.
There is also a reduced perception of
fatigue. These compression garments aid in
recovery, but do not improve performance if
worn during practice or matches – they may
even reduce performance during play.

18
 Player’s responsibility – listen to your body and
look after your body.

PLAYER SELF MONITORING AND

SELF MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

▶ Keep a daily record or log book recording adaptation to stress

▶ Eat a balanced diet and plan appropriate meals and post training snacks
▶ Use a shower/spa/bath after training with some cold immersion for
DAILY legs after training
▶ Stretch and self massage before bed
▶ Practice some relaxation strategies before bed and learn to
“switch off” from the day

▶ Have at least one rest day a week (e.g. a light non-training activity)
▶ Plan some active rest (e.g. yoga)
WEEKLY
▶ Organize a massage from a professional, parent, partner, or do some
self massage on legs and shoulders

WEEKLY ▶ Prioritize all weekly commitments in advance (e.g. school, work,

TIME MANAGEMENT training, domestic chores, social events, appointments etc.)
PLANNING – ▶ Add a few varied recovery activities to fit in around these commitments
PLAN IN ADVANCE (e.g. movie, spa, or night out with friends)

19
 The elite adult tennis player must generate MU SC LE FUNCT ION
approximately 4,000 watts of energy (1.2hp) in
each serve. Competitive junior tennis players Optimum muscle function is required to
could have serves that require more than generate the forces required in tennis and to
3,000 watts of energy. protect against the loads applied to the body
as a result of tennis play. Recovery needs to
Overuse injuries account for an estimated focus on the upper back, hip abductors and
50% of all injuries in young athletes. Overuse the muscles of the core.
injuries are more common during peak growth
spurts, especially if underlying biomechanical/
technical problems are present.
MUSCULOSKELETAL STR ATE GIE S
The major intrinsic musculoskeletal factors to FOR IMP R O VED
AS P E C T S address in recovery protocols include: joint and
RE C OVE RY FOR
muscle flexibility, strength, power, endurance,
OF RE C O V ERY balance and kinetic chain activation. MU SC ULO SKELETAL
FO R T EN N I S FUNC TI O N

FLE X IB ILITY
Areas of particular risk include hip and
shoulder. Flexibility must be addressed in
athletes who develop more than five degrees
of hip or shoulder rotation limitation, or more
than 2cm restriction in sit and reach score
before the next practice or tennis match.

Muscles respond to eccentric loads by

becoming “stiff.” Appropriate stretching
reduces muscle stiffness and increases
range of motion in the affected area.

The sleeper stretch is one of the best

stretches to improve internal rotation
flexibility at the shoulder joint.

PAIN RAT I NG SCA L E

& R E C O MME N DAT IO NS
A pain rating scale can help determine the
severity of an athlete’s situation and his/
PAIN R ATIN G C OM P LA I N T D E T E RM I NAT I O N her participation capabilities for upcoming
training or competition. An athlete should not
continue training or competing if swelling,

1 Pain after match or next day

May play – athlete
should warm-up well
range of motion limitations (above normal) or
muscle weakness (above normal) is present.
The pain scale can also be used to assess
the degree of recovery from any type of
Pain during match with normal May play – place injury. Return to play may be allowed if pain
2 stroke mechanics and no loss
of performance
emphasis on stretching
and watch mechanics
levels are 1 or 2.

IC E
Pain during match with
3 change in mechanics and
performance loss
No Play Cryotherapy (ice treatments) has an
analgesic effect (numbing and immediate
pain reduction), but it has not been shown
to reduce the symptoms of DOMS. However,
more research is still needed for definitive
4 Pain during play with minimal
playing ability
No Play guidelines or recommendations. If ice is
applied after training, it should be restricted
to 20 minutes or less.

20
 HERE IS SOME INFORMATION ADAPTED FROM Although these are good general guidelines,
THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS most young tennis players––with the full
COUNCIL ON SPORTS MEDICINE AND FITNESS knowledge and approval of their coaches
CLINICAL REPORT ON “OVERUSE INJURIES, and parents––train and compete more than
OVERTRAINING AND BURNOUT IN CHILD AND recommended. Therefore, it is vital to improve
ADOLESCENT ATHLETES”: the recovery activities to attempt to offset the
increase in training and competition.
9OUNGATHLETESSHOULDSTRIVETOHAVEONE
or two days off per week from competitive Many young athletes do not realize that if
athletics or sport-specific training to allow they increase their training volume and/or
FORPHYSICALANDPSYCHOLOGICALRECOVERY intensity, their daily energy requirements
R E C OV ERY 7EEKLYTRAININGTIMEORVOLUMESHOULDNOT
also need to be increased. They should
increase their nutrition and hydration volume
A ND INCREASEBYMORETHAN in response to an increased workload. During
hot and/or humid conditions, young athletes
TH E Y O U NG )DEALLYYOUNGATHLETESSHOULDTAKE  have a more challenging time to control
T ENN I S MONTHSOFFPERYEARFROMTHESPECIlCSPORT core body temperature. Young athletes may
also underestimate the time needed for
ATH LET E %MPHASIZETHATTHEFOCUSOFSPORTS physiologic recovery.
participation should be on fun, skill
ACQUISITIONSAFETYANDSPORTSMANSHIP When environmental conditions change,
children may need longer acclimatization
)FTHEATHLETECOMPLAINSOFNONSPECIlC periods than adults.
muscle or joint problems, fatigue or poor
academic performance, be alert to the
POSSIBILITYOFBURNOUT

!DVOCATEFORAMEDICALADVISORYBOARDFOR
multi-day tournaments to help educate-
players, parents and coaches about
important areas of nutrition, heat illness,
hydration, sport safety, overtraining,
BURNOUTOPTIMALPERFORMANCEANDHEALTH

#ONVEYASPECIALCAUTIONTOPARENTSWITH
younger athletes who participate in multi-
match tournaments with limited rest and
RECOVERYPERIODS
M ED I C AL I S SUES I M M U NE FUNC TI O N O VE RTR AININ G
AND With moderate levels of exertion, the risk
SYND R O M E
of infection is decreased compared to a
R E C OV ERY sedentary lifestyle, but at significant levels of
Overtraining syndrome has been defined as
“a condition of fatigue and underperformance,
IN TH E exertion, there is an increased risk of infection.
This is referred to as a J-shaped curve.
often associated with frequent infections
and depression which occurs following hard
TENN I S AT H LETE training and competition. The symptoms do
Low glutamine levels (the most abundant not resolve despite two weeks of adequate
amino acid in the bloodstream) develop rest and there is no other identifiable cause.”
following heavy, frequent, repetitive exercise,
Overtraining syndrome is the endpoint of
and with an increased risk of upper respiratory planned overreaching and inadequate recovery.
tract infections. Therefore, supplementation
with glutamine may be a consideration during If overtraining syndrome is not treated with
heavy training segments of a tennis player’s appropriate rest, a more severe condition––
periodized program only after consultation with chronic fatigue syndrome–may develop
a qualified healthcare provider who is trained chronic fatigue syndrome has similar
in nutrition. symptoms to overtraining syndrome, except
that the symptoms must be present for more
than 6 months. It includes fatigue that is not
alleviated by rest, leading to severe decrease
in work, education or personal activities
plus at least four of the following symptoms:
impaired memory or concentration; multijoint
pain; sore throat; new headaches; tender
cervical or axillary lymph nodes; un-
refreshing sleep; muscle pain; post exertional
malaise. It has been estimated that as much
as 20% of all elite athletes will be affected by
overtraining syndrome.

The depressive effect of intense exercise on immune

function is only temporary, assuming there is adequate
recovery time.

22
C L I N IC AL SY MP TO MS
O F O VE RTR AINING GENERAL
- Increased resting HR R E C O MME NDAT IO NS
TO PREVENT
- Weight loss
O VERTRAINING
- Poor healing SY ND R O M E INCLUDE
- Sleep disturbance
TH E FO LLO WING:
- Loss of appetite %DUCATEATHLETESPARENTS
and coaches regarding
- Depression
PERIODIZATIONANDTRAINING
- Sore throat techniques
- Legs feel heavy
%NSUREADEQUATERESTAND
- Excessive sweating recovery
- Decreased drive or competition !SSESSSTRESSANDCOPING
- Decreased Performance mechanisms/support network
- Irritability !VOIDWORKOUTSANDTRAINING
- Restlessness
)NCREASERESISTANCETRAINING
- Decreased concentration BYPERWEEK
- Frequent Upper Respiratory Infections
-ONITORTRAININGANDINCLUDE
- Emotional liability objective measurements
- Increased evening fluid intake of heart rate, weight,
performance, sleep and mood
- Decreased libido

23
SU M M A RY Prevention and preparatory strategies are
vital to aiding the recovery process.
- Give time to regain normal performance
MEASURES5SEOBJECTIVELY MEASURED
performance to objectively prescribe rest
/PTIMIZECONDITIONINGNUTRITIONHYDRATION ANDRECOVERY
ANDACCLIMATIZATIONTOCOMPETITIVE
DEMANDSWILLHELPPREVENTFATIGUE - The use of a carbohydrate-protein
The greater the beverage immediately post-tennis practice
- Expose players to forceful eccentric, or competition allows for replenishment of
distance between the stretch-shortening cycle and power- needed nutrients, and improves hormonal
focused resistance exercise to build conditions in the body to allow for faster
demands of training resistance against DOMS and enable recovery, which translates into more
and the resources for sustained play with smaller decrements in POSITIVEADAPTATIONS
PHYSICALPERFORMANCE
recovery, the greater
- Consume amino acids, protein, carbohydrates,
the risk of overtraining. appropriate fats, water and electrolytes
While much more information needs to be
uncovered, it does appear that strategies
regularly, but especially before, during and that try to maximize recovery only after
after training and/or competition a match or between closely scheduled
- Listen to the body if players feel weak, matches are less effective than strategies
SLOWPOORLYCOORDINATEDnTHEYARE that seek to maximize recovery before the
FATIGUED4HEREFOREANINCREASEDPRIORITY match or tournament.
NEEDSTOBEPLACEDONRECOVERY Selection of the appropriate recovery
strategies to address specific types
of fatigue will depend on the recovery
knowledge of the player and coach, and the
availability and cost of strategies available.

24
REC O V E RY
STRAT E GIE S F O R
DI FFERE N T T Y P E S
OF FATIG U E

TYPE OF FATIGUE RECOVERY STRATEGIES

▶ Rehydrate & refuel (including small amounts of protein as well as carbohydrates)

METABOLIC before, during & after training
FATIGUE ▶ Use contrast temperature showers, pool, or spa, and active recovery activities to
increase metabolism
(Energy Stores)
▶ Recovery Snack and appropriate hydration within 45 minutes of training

PERIPHERAL ▶ Rehydrate & refuel before, during & after training

NERVOUS SYSTEM ▶ Within 5 – 15 minutes after training use a spa or shower with jets focused on the
FATIGUE large & fatigued muscles such as legs, shoulders and arms
▶ After training or later in the day – massage large muscle groups & include some
(muscles) jostling / light shaking techniques

▶ Steady & regular intake of carbohydrates during training & after training to maintain
CENTRAL NERVOUS normal blood glucose levels to aid decision making
SYSTEM FATIGUE ▶ After training – unwind, listen to music, visualization
▶ Sauna – contrast hot and cold (for older players >15 years of age)
(brain)
▶ Rest with reduced cognitive stimulation

▶ Focus on process rather than outcome measures

PSYCHOLOGICAL ▶ Debrief by identifying 1-3 things that worked well and 1-3 that need more work
FATIGUE ▶ Take mind off training with escapist or funny movie, TV, book, or socialize with
family & friends
(emotional, social, cultural)
▶ 10-15 minutes before bed “switch-off” from the day by using relaxation techniques

▶ Preparation planning will minimize fatigue

▶ Stay hydrated and refueled
ENVIRONMENTAL & ▶ Stay cool in the heat - use a pool, shade, iced towels, etc.
TRAVEL FATIGUE ▶ Keep moving as much as possible on long journeys
▶ Minimize visual fatigue by wearing sunglasses outside & limiting time on computers
& play stations

25
 R E COVE RY STR ATE GIE S C O RR E SP O NDING
W I T H P LAYE R D E VE L O P ME NT AND INCREA S ED
WO R K LO AD S AND STR E SS
ADAPTEDFROMNUMEROUSSOURCESINCLUDING#ALDER

Training Age: Training Age: Training Age: Training Age: Training Age: Training Age:
0-1+ years 1-2 +/- years 3-7 +/- years 8-10 +/- years 10-12 +/- yrs. 1-100 +/- yrs.

During Training During Training During Training Periodized recovery Periodized recovery During Training

Rehydrate every Rehydrate every Rehydrate every (as previous stage) (as previous stage) Rehydrate and refuel
15-30 minutes 15-30 minutes 15-30 minutes Plus: Plus: regularly
▶ Compressive skins ▶ Detailed competition
After Training After Training After Training post training planning of After Training
recovery programs
▶ Drink (water, fruit ▶ Post game drink ▶ Post game drink ▶ 1-2 massages a including nutritional ▶ Post game sports
juice/sport drink) & & snack & snack week needs & timing drink & snack
light snack
(e.g. fruit, muffin, or ▶ Active recovery ▶ Active recovery ▶ Strategies selected ▶ Fine-tuning ▶ Active recovery
yogurt, etc) to suit specific recovery strategies
▶ Light stretch ▶ Light stretch fatigue for different ▶ Light stretch
▶ Light stretch competition
▶ Shower ▶ Contrast shower ▶ Recovery program ▶ Contrast shower
environments
▶ Shower at home individualized
▶ Meal within ▶ Meal ASAP ▶ Meal ASAP
▶ Player has major
2 hours ▶ Competition input into the
scenarios trialed recovery program
Before bed Before bed ▶ Especially recovery ▶ Variation in Before bed
from travel fatigue recovery strategies
▶ Self Massage ▶ Self Massage and adjusting to ▶ Self Massage
to prevent
different facilities monotony
▶ Stretching ▶ Stretching ▶ Stretching
▶ Increased
▶ Relaxation ▶ Relaxation (as for ▶ Relaxation movie,
range & use of
(TV, book, music) previous stage) TV, book, music,
psychological
Plus: Progressive visualization,
recovery
muscle relaxation, meditation, etc.
visualization, etc. ▶ Variety of active
recovery and rest
day activities
Weekly Weekly

▶ Active recovery ▶ Sports massage

(e.g. pool, golf,
walk dog) ▶ Active recovery
(e.g. pool, golf,
▶ Spa & plunge pool walk dog)

▶ Stretching session ▶ Spa & plunge pool

(e.g. Yoga)
▶ Stretching session
(eg. Yoga)

*Training Age: Is defined as the age since an athlete has been training for tennis on a regular basis. An example is a 12
26 year old junior tennis player who has been taking lessons and practicing for 2 years. This athlete has a training age of 2.
RECOVERY IN TENNIS
A GUIDE TO IMPROVING PERFORMANCE AND LIMITING INJURY
THROUGH IMPROVED RECOVERY

To access more information on tennis recovery, please visit the Sport Science page of
playerdevelopment.usta.com

Each chapter was thoroughly peer-reviewed by other experts and their names
are listed below:

Mitchel Alpert, MD Satoshi Ochi, MA

Jessica Battaglia, MS Brian O’Malley, MS

'EORGE#"RANCHE)))-$ Anne Pankhurst, BSc

4*EFF#HANDLER%D$ Sally Parsonage, PhD

Miguel Crespo, PhD David Ramos, MA

David Dines, MD Scott Reiwald, PhD

Todd Ellenbecker, DPT %0AUL2OETERT0H$

Dan Gould, PhD Robert Russo, MS

Brian Hainline, MD 7ILLIAM!3ANDS0H$

7"EN+IBLER-$ Dawn Weatherwax-Fall, RD

-ARK+OVACS0H$ Gary Windler, MD

Melisa Lemus, PT Michael Yorio, MD

Paul Lubbers, PhD USTA Sport Science Committee

 
Rodney Marshall, BS