Tennis
Singles or doubles on court.
Categories / Racket sports
Racket sports
Tennis, badminton, squash, table tennis, padel and pickleball. Quick, social and easy to start, with options from gentle to fierce.
Racket sports are quick, social and easy to start, and they give you a great workout without it feeling like exercise. Our 6 racket sports include tennis, badminton, squash, table tennis, padel and pickleball, with gentle social versions as well as fast, competitive play.
You can learn the basics within a few sessions and enjoy doubles with friends straight away. Each guide explains how to start, how to progress and which injuries to watch for, such as strains from sudden stops and twists. Compare the options and find a racket sport that fits you.
6 regimes
Badminton
Fast racket sport with shuttlecock.
Squash
Intense racket game in an enclosed court.
Table Tennis
Small-table racket sport.
Padel
Doubles racket sport with walled court.
Pickleball
Small-court paddle sport, popular with older adults.
Racket sports: pros and cons
What to like and what to watch for, so you can decide whether this type of exercise is right for you.
Best for: Anyone who likes quick, social, skill-based exercise they can start almost straight away.
Pros
- Easy to pick up, with fast progress in the early weeks
- Works fitness, reactions and hand-eye coordination
- Easy to play in pairs, with fun doubles
- Options from gentle to fierce, including padel and pickleball
Cons
- Court hire and kit cost money
- Needs a playing partner
- Sudden stops and twists can strain knees, ankles and shoulders, so warm up well