Gestalt Tennis

Gestalt Tennis is a unique and innovative approach to the game that combines traditional tennis techniques with mindfulness and self-awareness practices. Inspired by Gestalt theory, it focuses on a holistic development of the player starting from their mindful breathing skills, to enhance both physical performance and mental well-being.

Gestalt Tennis is suitable for players of all levels, from beginners seeking a well-rounded foundation to advanced players looking to refine their mental strength and match performance. Whether you are a recreational player or a competitive athlete, Gestalt Tennis offers valuable techniques to enhance both your game and your mindset.

Each session typically starts with mindful breathing exercises to centre your focus. This is followed by technical drills and gameplay, where the coach guides you to stay present and aware of your body movements. Sessions may include guided visualizations, reflective practices, and tailored feedback to foster physical awareness, skill development and mental clarity.

This method encourages players to become more attuned to their bodies and therefore more capable of developing tennis skills; at the same time, it helps them manage stress, maintain focus, and improve resilience during matches.

In this light, alongside traditional technical and tactical advice, Gestalt Tennis gives particular relevance to the following:

· Mindful Breathing: this practice - perhaps familiar through Yoga or Pilates - has been adapted to the specific characteristics of tennis. Players are invited to focus on their breathing, and experience how to control breathing helps to control the movements of the body and their intensity, therefore to control racket-ball-point.

· Emphasis on Body Awareness: Encouraging players to develop a deep awareness of their entire body while playing tennis. This includes exploring and being mindful of their movements, balance and physical sensations with specific exercises including Tai Chi Tennis. By cultivating this awareness, players can enhance their physical ability, their connection with the game and improve their overall performance.

· Focus on the ‘here and now’ represented by the ball: Gestalt principles emphasise being fully present in the current moment. It helps players to let go of distractions and previous mistakes, control anxiety and instead, channel their attention into the present moment during practice and matches. This can help them make better instinctive decisions and perform at their best.Write your text here...

· Engage the senses: Encourages players to engage and trust all their senses while playing tennis. This includes paying attention to the sound of the ball, the feel of the racket in their hands, the sight of the court, and even the smell of the surroundings. Engaging the senses helps players create a rich and immersive experience, enhancing their connection with the game.

· Encourage intuitive decision-making: Gestalt-Tennis value intuitive decision-making based on the whole context rather than relying solely on analytical thinking. It fosters an environment where players can trust their senses and instincts and make split-second decisions based on their intuitive perception.

· Explore the emotions: Every player, at any level, is involved in a performance; this is why alongside the development of physical self-awareness, In Gestalt Tennis attention is given to emotional experiences arising while playing, at any level; This can be very useful for emotional regulation and to improve resilience and confidence during play.

· Cultivate unity with the context: Help players develop a sense of unity with the tennis court, racket, ball and even the opponent, encouraging seeing them as a dancing partner though the ball rather than an adversary. This mindset fosters a greater sense of harmony and connection, leading to improved performance.

For more information:

• Read my article on Coaching & Sport Science Review, the scientific journal published by the International Tennis Federation. (Also available in Spanish and French)

• Watch my interview with Mark Tennant, founder and director of Inspire2Coach