We’re just a few weeks away from one of the biggest Grand Slam events on the tennis calendar: the French Open, which kicks off in Paris’ Roland Garros from 19th May.
The premier event will see the likes of “King of Clay” Rafael Nadal and reigning French Open champion Maria Sharapova taking to the clay, giving spectators three weeks of jaw-dropping action in the lead up to Wimbledon in late June.
With such an exciting summer to look forward to, these seasoned champions will doubtless be undergoing a rigorous training regime, but their methods of training may be less conventional than just keeping fit. Here are a few secrets of the stars that help them get in shape for these outstanding events.
Brain training
‘Big four’ star Roger Federer was recently seen taking to the courts in Monte Carlo for the Monte Carlo Rolex Masters, helping to ensure he is in peak physical condition for the French Open in May. Federer has not won a French Open in six years, but perhaps if he takes advantage of Monte Carlo’s other delights, he may have more luck – in particular, its thriving casino scene.
Many athletes have enjoyed the benefits of mental training by playing strategic card games such as poker, which require just as much endurance as playing for hours on the clay. Of course, with athletes’ busy schedules, it may be easier to play on the go with online alternatives, but the health benefits have been proven by numerous studies. By applying focus and thinking laterally, players can use these transferable skills on the court to guide them to victory.
Getting your groove on
For World No.1 Serena Williams, the tennis player inside her is just one side of her personality. The other is a strong, fun-loving woman who credits her mum as her inspiration, saying she is a “stronger woman than I am.” In an interview with Fitness Magazine, Williams said: “I think of myself as two different people. There’s the Serena Williams that everyone knows: she can’t make a mistake.
“I’m only that person for three hours a day, when I’m on the court. The rest of the time I’m just Serena. I’m the class clown.” So how exactly does Serena maintain this class clown persona? By none other than getting her groove on with Zumba – the perfect way to burn calories and have a little fun!
Pure, unapologetic, science
Many tennis stars would say their secret is a mix of blood, sweat and tears, but for Andy Murray, there’s one fluid that would make us all blush if we were to discuss it in casual conversation. The World No.3 swears by the science of osmolarity checks – that is, checking the hydration and mineral levels in his urine prior to every game.
Murray swears by a rigorous routine which includes eating a balanced breakfast at the same time every morning, and planning everything in advance. One word of warning for those adjusting their diet however – avoid bananas. The star openly admitted in his autobiography that he considered them nothing more than “pathetic fruit.” Ouch!
