The Roland-Garros tennis tournament opened its doors last weekend, and you take the opportunity to smatter some health prejudices about the practice of tennis
Any opportunity to engage listeners in physical activity is worth taking. Of course, the objective is not to push people to perform the performances of clay-court gladiators, but to give back the desire to those who hesitate, for health reasons in particular, to take out the racket that sleeps in the sky. bottom of an old sports bag …
Okay, but you can’t deny that tennis is very bad for the tendons of the muscles, especially in the elbow …
It is true that tennis can cause tendonitis, the most famous of which is also called … “tennis-elbow”! It is the most common tendonitis. But you should know that preventive work of muscle building, regular stretching and warming up, coupled with good hydration, largely contributes to preserving the tendons. Then, of course, before hitting the ball like a brute, you have to have the right technical gesture and the equipment adapted to your level.
Do you often hear that tennis is bad for your back?
Contrary to popular belief, playing tennis does not cause spinal deformities, such as scoliosis. It does not accentuate them either, on the contrary since playing tennis should rather strengthen your back. But of course, how before any practice of sport in club, it will be necessary to consult a doctor who will make or not a certificate of aptitude.
Another fear often heard: tennis is bad for the heart.
It’s true when you see the sudden acceleration of the game and the intensity of the champions’ efforts on television, you say to yourself that it puts your heart to the test. But again, it’s all about the dosage. In this case, the practice of tennis is good for the heart, in particular it reduces the risks in those with moderate hypertension. Thus, a young person whose family has a history of heart problems, can with this sport practice prevent the risk of myocardial infarction in adulthood.
What if you’ve already had a heart problem, can you still play for fun?
Yes, if this person has had a heart attack with modest sequelae, they should be able to resume tennis, obviously after some tests with their cardiologist. And I will add some precautions: avoid playing in hot weather, and also after a meal, especially well watered … One last advice: play double! This allows you to enjoy the joys of this sport while reducing the duration of efforts, unless of course you get angry with your partner …
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