12 | HEALTH
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nyone for tennis? Perhaps the thought of picking up a racquet brings back memories of teenage PE sessions at school, but racquet sports are the perfect summer exercise. Think strawberries and cream, freshly-cut grass and little pleated skirts. Why not get out on the court and serve up some fitness and fun? Racquet sports improve balance, coordination and mobility and can reduce blood pressure and chronic illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes. You’ll also get mental wellbeing benefits such as reduced stress levels and a blast of dopamine, the happy hormone. Racquet sports can also provide focus and add structure to our busy, sometimes hectic, lives. They also offer time with friends, family or partners and they offer the opportunity to meet new people.
© Shockgenrstu/mi
You don’t need to be a pro to try them and starting out isn’t expensive. Most clubs offer taster sessions for beginners, or intermediate and advanced classes for
more established players. Local tennis clubs can be found dotted across Aberdeen and the Shire, including facilities at Westburn Park, Cults Lawn Tennis Club and Stonehaven LTC. If tennis isn’t your game, why not try badminton? The Aberdeen Badminton Academy offers an array of sessions at all levels, held across the North East including Aberdeen Sports Village and Portlethen Academy. Check out your local sports centre or the Aberdeen Badminton Academy website for more information. If you’re in search of a sport with higher intensity, perhaps squash is for you? The Aberdeen Sports Village has a great facility for the game, with several courts for hire. Alternatively, the Aberdeen Squash and Racketball Club and the Banchory Sports Village offer beginners’ sessions. There are advanced booking summer tennis camps for kids including sessions at RGU Sport and Aberdeen Tennis Centre too.
