The study, led by Dr. Matthew Jackson, a sports and exercise scientist, compared two groups: those who regularly played tennis and those who met NHS exercise guidelines through activities like running, cycling, and gym workouts. The results showed that the tennis group had significantly better musculoskeletal health, suggesting tennis may be particularly effective for promoting bone and muscle strength.
Why Tennis Stands Out for Musculoskeletal Health
According to Dr. Jackson, tennis offers unique benefits for musculoskeletal health, especially as a weight-bearing sport that builds both muscle mass and bone density. Unlike gym workouts or aerobic activities, tennis combines cardiovascular exercise with strength and power training, making it especially beneficial as people age and face accelerated muscle and bone loss.
Dr. Jackson also emphasizes the social element of tennis, which can make it more enjoyable and sustainable as a regular activity. “If you enjoy it, you’re more likely to keep doing it,” he notes, highlighting tennis as an accessible and sustainable form of exercise.
Combatting Sarcopenia and Reversing Muscle Loss
The study, which involved 90 participants aged 18 to 65, measured musculoskeletal function through tests on body composition, upper and lower body strength, and muscle fatigue. Dr. Jackson explains that tennis can help reverse sarcopenia, a debilitating condition where muscle loss affects daily activities. He notes that while muscle-wasting conditions are often seen as irreversible in older adults, engaging in weight-bearing exercises like tennis can counteract these effects.
The researchers are also working with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) to improve access to tennis facilities and dispel the misconception that tennis is an expensive sport. “It’s really not costly to join a local tennis club,” says Dr. Jackson.
Time-Efficient, Lasting Health Benefits
Importantly, the study found no significant difference in time spent exercising between the two groups. However, tennis players may naturally spend longer in the activity and are more likely to maintain it long-term due to its enjoyable, social aspects. This study suggests that promoting tennis as a regular exercise option could play a vital role in improving musculoskeletal health, especially among older adults.
As a fun, accessible, and highly effective way to boost bone density and muscle mass, tennis offers a promising alternative to conventional exercise routines for preventing musculoskeletal issues. The WTA’s partnership with the LTA aims to make tennis more available to the public, supporting the health of the wider community.