Imagine the thrill of tennis combined with the laid-back vibe of the beach, and you've got beach tennis – a sport that's been making waves in coastal communities around the world.

This exciting hybrid game brings together elements of tennis, volleyball, and badminton, creating a unique and addictive summer activity that's perfect for players of all ages and skill levels.

What Is Beach Tennis

Beach tennis originated in Italy in the 1970s and has since spread to beaches across the globe. The game is played on a beach volleyball court with a lower net, typically 1.7 meters high. Players use solid paddles (similar to those used in paddle tennis or platform tennis) to hit a slightly depressurized tennis ball back and forth over the net without letting it touch the sand.

How to Play

The rules of beach tennis are a mix of tennis and volleyball:

1. The game is played in doubles, with two players on each side of the net.

2. Serves are diagonal, like in tennis, and must be hit underhand.

3. Players can only hit the ball once before it goes over the net.

4. The ball must not touch the sand on your side of the court.

5. Scoring is similar to volleyball, with games typically played to 21 points (win by two).

Getting Started

To start playing beach tennis, you'll need:

• A beach tennis paddle

• Depressurized tennis balls (stage 2 "orange" balls work well)

• A beach tennis net (or a volleyball net lowered to 1.7 meters)

• A sandy area to play

Many beaches in popular coastal areas now have dedicated beach tennis courts, but you can also set up your own court with a portable net.

Beach Tennis Racket Recommendations

When it comes to beach tennis rackets (also called paddles), there are several brands to choose from. Here are two popular options:

1. MBT (Mr. Beach Tennis)

• Known for high-quality, professional-grade beach tennis rackets

• Popular models: MBT X-FORCE and MBT X-FURIOUS

• Price range: $130 - $250

• Why choose MBT: Excellent build quality, used by many professional players

2. Quicksand

• Offers a range of rackets for beginners to advanced players

• Popular models: Quicksand Q1 and Quicksand Atlantis

• Price range: $80 - $180

• Why choose Quicksand: Good value for money, suitable for various skill levels

When selecting a racket, consider factors like weight, balance, and grip size. Beginners might prefer lighter rackets with larger sweet spots, while advanced players might opt for heavier rackets that offer more power and control.

So next time you're at the beach, why not grab a paddle and give beach tennis a try? You might just discover your new favorite summer sport. With its blend of skill, strategy, and pure fun under the sun, beach tennis is definitely a game worth serving up!