Product Description
The Inner Game of Tennis is a revolutionary program for overcoming the self-doubt, nervousness, and lapses of concentration that can keep a player from winning. Now available in a revised paperback edition, this classic bestseller can change the way the game of tennis is played.Amazon.com Review
A phenomenon when first published in 1972, the InnerGame was a real revelation. Instead of serving up technique, itconcentrated on the fact that, as Gallwey wrote, "Every game iscomposed of two parts, an outer game and an inner game." Theformer is played against opponents, and is filled with lots ofcontradictory advice; the latter is played not against, but within themind of the player, and its principal obstacles are self-doubt andanxiety. Gallwey's revolutionary thinking, built on a foundation ofZen thinking and humanistic psychology, was really a primer on how toget out of your own way to let your best game emerge. It was sportspsychology before the two words were pressed against each other andcodified into an accepted discipline.

The new edition of thisremarkable work--Billie Jean King called the original her tennisbible--refines Gallwey's theories on concentration, gamesmanship,breaking bad habits, learning to trust yourself on the court, andawareness. "No matter what a person's complaint when he has alesson with me, I have found the most beneficial first step," hestressed, "is to encourage him to see and feel whathe is doing--that is, to increase his awareness of what actuallyis."

There are aspects of psychobabble and mysticism to befound here, sure, but Gallwey instructs as much by anecdote asanything else, and time has ultimately proved him a guru. What seemedradical in the early '70s is now accepted ammunition for the canon;the right mental approach is every bit as important as a goodbackhand. The Inner Game of Tennis still does much to keep thatidea in play. --Jeff Silverman ... Read more

Customer Reviews (90)

Excellent tennis guide
This book is an excellent tennis guide.As a bonus, it also communicates the (feel-good) mood of the 1970s, minus the horrible, horrible plaid and checked shirts and pants.

Buy this book, you'll be glad you did.

not a good book
this book was well written, however, it is just a bunch of psych mumbo jumbo that really will have no effect on my game.
i cannot even apply anything that i read to really improve psychologically or physically to the game.it is truly a waste of money.i wished that i could say otherwise, however, it was not very good.

More than a book on tennis
I purchased this book hoping to find information on correct strokes and technique, and though I was somewhat disappointed in this regard (Gallwey offers quite little in this department), what I got out of this book was far greater than I could have hoped. In short, Gallwey advocates a new approach to tennis (and indeed to life) which involves the untangling of the instinctual mind (which he terms Self 2) from the invasive thoughts of the overly self-conscious self (Self 1). In tennis, the incessant demands of Self 1 must be set aside so that the mind can be quieted and the sense of uncomplicated action that defines Self 2 can be released without inhibition. Which is to say that judgments, both positive and negative, are let go entirely, and the mind is focused entirely on the elemental nature of the game, watching the ball and striking without reflection on technique.

The greater applications of Gallwey's Zen-like approach to tennis are clear: life is not about exalting one's ego in a zero-sum game of competition, but rather should be structured on achieving personal excellence and trust in one's natural ability. Gallwey is of course not maintaining that any old fellow can pick up a racket and become like Federer by achieving total pacification of Self 1, but he does offer the optimistic belief in actualization of potential not through conscious committment to rules and technique in practice but rather the gradual assimilation of correct technique through a process of trial and error.

Best. Tennis. Book. Ever.
I swear this book will totally change your game. It's all about mastering your inner negative voices and helping yourself be the best possible you on the court. So, so, so, so helpful!!

Love it
This book is about way more than tennis. The relaxation techniques and benefits it provides is applicable to so many other sports and life situations. It's helped me improve in golf, Jiu-jitsu, presentations, and dealing with people. Perhaps it may not have the same effect for others, but it's been great for me. ... Read more

Product Description

When Abraham Verghese, a physician whose marriage is unraveling, relocates to El Paso, Texas, he hopes to make a fresh start as a staff member at the county hospital.There he meets David Smith, a medical student recovering from drug addition, and the two men begin a tennis ritual that allows them to shed their inhibitions and find security in the sport they love and with each other. This friendship between doctor and intern grows increasingly rich and complex, more intimate than two men usually allow. And just when it seems nothing more can go wrong, the dark beast from David's past emerges once again. As David spirals out of control, almost everything Verghese has come to trust and believe in is threatened. Compassionate and moving, The Tennis Partner is a unforgettable, illuminating story of how men live, and how they survive.

For both Verghese and his tennis partner, a fourth-year medicalstudent named David Smith, the game is a much-needed island of orderin the midst of personal chaos. Both men are struggling to rebuildtheir lives, Verghese undergoing a painful divorce, Smith strugglingwith an intravenous cocaine addiction. For a brief, idyllic period,their friendship flourishes; Verghese mentors Smith in the examiningroom, while Smith, an Australian who competed briefly on the procircuit, ends up Verghese's teacher on the court. But there are darkcorners to David's personality, and under the mounting pressures ofmedical school and his increasingly complicated love life, these cometo the fore. Even as he learns how to inhabit his new life, Verghesewatches with horror as his friend relapses, dries out, then relapsesagain. The author of the powerful My Own Country, achronicle of caring for AIDS patients in rural Tennessee, Vergheseonce again proves that the skills of a good doctor are strikinglysimilar to those of a good writer. Careful observation, compassion,restraint: these are the instruments Verghese uses to stunning effectin The Tennis Partner. A paean to the healing powers of tennis,this book is also a moving meditation on friendship, fatherhood, love,addiction, and the particular loneliness of physicians. --MaryPark ... Read more

Customer Reviews (66)

Disappointed Fan
I had read "Cutting for Stone" and loved it!I actually purchased multiple copies and gave them to my daughter and two friends.I also recommended it to many of my patients.I found The Tennis Partner to be self-indulgent---more of an autobiography than a novel.The first chapter was a grabber--totally fascinating-- and then it was downhill from there.I finished it because I kept waiting for it to improve based on the Cutting for Stone novel which had incredible dimension.I felt that the characters in The Tennis Partner lacked depth but it did educate me about drug addiction in physicians.

More than tennis
The tennis metaphor may be a bit excessive, but the story and the writing are the natural step from My Own Country to Cutting For Stone.Verghese is a wonderful story teller who only gets better in Cutting for Stone.The mysterious and cunning disease of addiction is explored in this book. As another book states, addiction is"...cunning,baffling, and powerful." The deception of the addict not only breaks his own spirit, but also the spirits in those around him. The reader meets the tennis player, watches and learns from him, then sadly shakes his/her head at the choices of an addict/liar. Verghese faces some sad truths about his own life as well and gives the reader a sanitized version of his own pain and denial.

book purchase
i had fast delivery, the book came, as promised, in excellent condition and it was also a fabulous read!

Tennis Mania?
I purchased this book because of editorial reviews.I found it so boring I couldn't even get half way through it.I guess if you are a tennis fan it would be interesting.Otherwise, it plods thru at such a boringly slow pace that I just had to put it down, something I never do.The backround stories about the narrator's life growing up were just as tedious as imagining the sound of a tennis ball bouncing back and forth, over and over and over...Sorry I bought it.I've donated it to a charity, so maybe someone else will find it interesting.

One of the best writers of our time
The Tennis Partner was an incredible read--honest, lovely and raw that deals with friendship, loss and letting go and the painful destruction of addiction.I am an avid reader and decided to read it after reading Verghese's Cutting for Stone. Verghese is a writer like no other. While this review was initially to say The Tennis Partner is a must read, I will go on to say don't miss the beautifully written novel--Cutting for Stone.

I would rate Cutting for Stone as one of the top ten books I have ever read.Verghese's every word captured on paper are a true gift to the world of readers.It was a timeless, beautiful novel that will penetrate your soul in many ways and whose characters you will love and remember long after you have finished the book.I am about to read My Own Country and cannot wait to savor every written word of Verghese.Never stop writing for us Mr. Verghese.You are one of the best writers of all time! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Tennis, Anyone?
This is an authoritative, comprehensive reference work, a necessity for anyone interested in the history of tennis.The b/w photos are wonderful although printed on plain-text stock, and the copy is always the usual Bud Collins as journalist stuff, amusing and arch, with all the stats one could possibly desire.

My copy, however, has neither date nor place of publication listed anywhere, making me wonder about its authenticity.Furthermore, typos abound.

Still, I wouldn't be without this tome, especially with the Open coming up so soon.

great book
Really enjoyed this book on the history of tennis..I am fairly new to the sport and this felt like it helped me catch up to the present day players that I love to folow.

The Big Book of Tennis
Literally and figuratively at 784 pages, the just-released The Bud Collins History of Tennis is the big book of the game. etween its soft covers awaits a prodigious compilation of historical tennis information, including year-by-year recaps of every tennis season, biographical sketches of every major tennis personality, as well as stats, records, and championship rolls for all the major events. FOR THE FULL REVIEW GO TO:

http://www.hofmag.com/content/view/1115/60/

... Read more

Product Description
Increase strength, power, agility, and quickness and take your game to a much higher level. Complete Conditioning for Tennis details how to make the most of your training time with exercises, drills, and programs designed to

• assess your fitness level,
• improve footwork,
• increase speed and flexibility,
• enhance stamina,
• boost mental focus, and
• prevent common injuries.

Endorsed by the United States Tennis Association, Complete Conditioning for Tennis is simply the best guide to developing the highest level of athleticism for success in the sport. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Right on Target
This book is REALLY comprehensive and covers every aspect of conditioning you can imagine. Major chapters include:

-warm-up and flexibility training (includes all the major stretches)
-agility and footwork (specific drills to improve your footwork)
-speed and quickness (more drills to increase your speediness)
-core training (a lot of tennis moves depend on a strong trunk)
-strength and power training (exercises to increase your upper and lower body strength)
-aerobic training (ways to increase your endurance)

Also included, a short section on injury prevention- only a page and a half on tennis elbow though (suggest Treat Your Own Tennis Elbow for more on that).

Just a ton of information here and I can't see anybody who plays tennis reading this book and not coming away with at least a few nuggets of wisdom.Get this book if you want to get in better physical shape to play tennis or if you're a coach and want more training tips and ideas.

Dissapointed, but with decent content
I was excited when i got this book, but dissapointed when I opened it. I purchased this book to find a tennis workout program and what i found was a bunch of pictures describing various exercises. I could have got this information online in dozens of different websites. I found no information new and i still have to create a fitness program for myself. All this book has is a bunch of scattered information, the authors should have tied it all together with a comprehensive fitness program at the end, which would have made this book great. This book is ok at best.

Comprehensive, too much for some readers?
This is an excellent book for tennis conditioning. Most readers would have to pick and choose which things to employ as only the most dedicated athlete would find the time for everything. Excellent as a comprehensive survey.

Conditionning for tennis
What a book! According to me, it is the best book to help an independant player to progress by himself. The explanations are very clear, simple. And the CD is fabulous: fabulous to watch the exercices, fabulous to avoid wrong positions, wrong movements,...Thank you very much for this conditionning Bible.

Complete Conditioning for Tennis
Like the title states, this is a very complete and thorough conditioning book designed for the needs of the tennis player. With chapters on condition assesment, flexibility, strength, agility and others, a complete routine can be established that players of all skill levels will enjoy. I strongly recommened this book for players, or parents of, looking to compete at the highest levels. Being a 1-2 times a week player, some parts don't apply to me but will the most serious. The majority of this book can be used by players of every skill and dedication level. ... Read more

Product Description
For anyone who wants to improve their mental game, this must-have book provides inspiration, specific strategies and tools that will help tennis players shift their thinking so they truly can play the best tennis of their life. Former No. 1 world-ranked player, coach, sport psychology consultant and psychotherapist, Jeff Greenwald provides a deeper and richer glimpse into the mental game that gets at the heart of players' inner struggle. Full of highly practical mental toughness strategies, personal anecdotes and examples from clients, Greenwald's approach gives tennis players the edge they need to succeed at this most elusive part of the game of tennis. Organized in a simple and practical manner, no other book on the market makes improving your mental game this accessible. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

A good book to have.
I check-out this book from my local library and is consider buying it.I think it is a good book to have and to carry it in my tennis bag.It offers tips that I think will help my game.Easy to read.

The Best Tennis of Your Life: 50 Mental Strategies for Fearless Performance
I've been playing A grade tennis for over 30 years and never really considered the mental aspects of the game. I highly recommend this book. I got a lot out of it and now better understand how the mind and my thoughts play such a important part in the game. Gone are the days of expecting to win every point and never making a mistake. Now I don't beat up on myself for making errors. The book's filled with wisdom about attitude, behavior, positive affirmations and how you bring all these together to make you a better tennis player and person. I'm ordering additional books to give to my team mates. It's one of those books that will change your life.

Tennis Reader
This not a good book; it is boring.You will not remember much of it during a match because there is very little that is salient enough to leave an impression.

Greate menntal strategy guide for the average club tennis player
The author presents several mental strategies for tennis that he developed from his experiences in playing and coaching. These look to be applicable to players at any level. It was a quick read and I found that a few points stuck in my head well after I had finished reading the book that helped me improve my thought process on the court and consequently my results. I play at the 4.0/4.5 level.

Concise & Powerful
Well written - easy to read. Just the right amount of thought tips..It helped me. ... Read more

Product Description

Like having a personal tennis pro on call for expert coaching.

Tennis Skills is an in-depth guide to improving a player's game. It features a battery of lessons designed by tennis pros that lays down a solid foundation of stroke skills and game strategy. Clear instructions and annotated diagrams provide valuable coaching and corrective techniques -- most valuable for any player.

Tom Sadzeck provides an abundance of visual features to help players of all levels improve their game. Six chapters cover the game's key skill sets, from basic techniques to singles and doubles strategies. There are more than 40 drills that focus on target areas of form, strategy, coordination and footwork. Other specific instructions include:

• Stroke-production exercises
• Forehand, backhand, serve, volley, slice and other shots
• A breakdown of each stroke to promote consistent form
• Warm-up, grips, body position, footwork, targeting, follow-through
• Court diagrams to help players visualize a stroke's outcome
• How to handle game pressure.

The book also features easy-to-follow sequential photographs, Master Stroke sidebars that give easy-to remember tips, Fault Finder boxes that point out common mistakes and Coach's comments that share the wisdom of seasoned pros.

Customer Reviews (9)

Good
this book was great with helping me understand the basics of tennis. It is written and organized well and very easy to read. I would suggest it to anyone who wishes to improve their game.

Tennis Skills
A brief perusal revealed a book that has the potential to improve your tennis game. Whether you are just a beginner or an intermediate player.The outcome will depend on the amount of close scrutiny and application of the coaching techniques supplied in the book.

Tennis Skills,The player's guide
Waste of money. I found nothing new in the book to improve the tennis game.Though it has a colorful sequence of amateur players and sprinkle of one shot of some professional players. The book could have been organized
with detail suggestions. But I guess coaches do not divulge their secrets
in the paper back book.

Tennis Self-help
This book is easy to use.It gives you a solid basis for the strokes or tactics used in basic or intermediate tennis, which helps you to become more consistent in your game.The photographs are clear and informative.The colored diagrams are precise in depicting the stroke you should do.This book is a must-have if you are looking to solidify your basics which is the foundation of great tennis skills.

Tennis Skills: The Player's Guide
Tennis Skills: The Player's Guide, by Tom Sadzeck.
Excellent book. I would recommend to all tennis players, all levels. ... Read more

Product Description
You either know the solution or correction that will give you the results you want, or you don't!

Enter Tennis Magic - a unique problem-solving guide loaded with dynamic, practical solutions to your most pressing concerns.

You've got questions, and Tennis Magic has answers - and they're not just theoretical. Here, each answer to your tennis questions is a solution - presented as a powerful, easy to learn trick.

With Tennis Magic, everything that has traditionally been taught as a skill has been distilled into a series of tricks that live in the present rather than the future. Once you learn a trick, you've got it - and learning them is fast, easy and fun. Sure, you'll continue to polish them, but in every important aspect you own them from day one. They work the very first time you actually use them, and things only get better from there.

Remember: Slow progress and constant frustration are not intrinsic parts of the learning curve. There is a better way!

So if "Big fun - good game - sooner!" is your objective, then get happy: These tricks will enable you to respond quickly and effectively to virtually any tennis challenge. With the help of Tennis Magic, players around the world are breaking free of their old limitations, and improving their games like never before. Tricks rule - so learn one today, and use it today! There's no better time to start playing like a pro than right this very minute. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

great book
I enjoyed this book. The promotional description oversells it, but it's still good and useful.

A Tennis Pro in your gym bag
Magic Tricks?I just want to play better tennis.The title turned me off of the book initially and then the price.It costs about two to three times what other tennis books cost.But I did the "click to read inside" and I felt I learned some good tips right away so I bought the book to see what the rest of it was about.

And the good advice just kept popping out page after page.

The book is not organized by chapters of ideas but rather by question and answers.You find your question and read the answer.I find that I do better with the book when I have an actual question in my mind than just reading the questions in order with their answers.Having that mental conversation makes a huge difference.I'd say this book is actually worth about 20 or so private lessons so it is a good value.

Finally Mallory is an engaging writer.So he keeps you hooked and thinking about what is going on.I cannot say the same for the some of the Pros I've taken lessons from!

The best "How To" tennis book ever
Tennis Magic is simply the best tennis "How To" book I've ever read, and I've read many in my endless pursuit of improvement.Its "Tricks" format is totally unique and makes finding and isolating your specific tennis "problems" the easiest ever.The "Tricks" are not really tricks at all, but very precise tips to improve each specific area of your game.The only problem I experienced with this book was reading too far ahead, which gave me too much information all at once, but the book was so informative I couldn't stop.The best way to use this book is to decide which part of a particular stroke is giving you fits and read the "trick" for correcting it and then going out to practice that one trick.For example, If you're hitting a lot of balls into the net, just look up the "trick" for correcting it in the chapter "Groundstroke Magic" and then go out and practice it.I cannot recommend this book too highly. ... Read more

Product Description
Tennis Tactics presents 58 strategic shot sequences to maximize your strengths and exploit your opponents’ weaknesses. The book includes 63 drills that show you how to practice the shot patterns and make them part of your tactical approach in match play. By improving your shot making and decision making, you’ll hit more winners than ever!

Whether you’re an all-court player, a counterpuncher, an aggressive baseliner, or a serve and volleyer, you’ll find patterns to fit your style of play. You’ll learn how to executebackcourt, midcourt, net play, and defensive patterns that will win key points in competition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Excellent book
I have about 10 tennis books and this is the one that I grab every single training day to discuss the patterns and drills with my coach.If you really want to develop your game to a more efficient and consistent level, this book will help showing the patterns of play and the drills that cover them.

Lots of drills!
Book is pretty much all patterns of play and drills linked to improve those patterns. Good variation of drills. Simple illustrations are easy to understand.

Tennis Tactics: Winning Patterns of Play
Good book with excellent information.Love the drawings of what the author(s) are describing, making it easier to visualize tactics.Definitely a book for your reference library.

winning the right way
This book addresses effective tennis strategies from every angle. Tennis is a mental game after all. You just need physical fitness and endurance to go with it. Each drill comes with a clear description (category, purpose, player's level, time, procedure, coaching points) and a diagram. Every player's level is covered - from beginner to professional. In addition, USTA does not overlook the importance of planning your strategy around your and the opponent's strengths and weaknesses. In this respect, four basic styles of play are addressed: 1) counterpuncher, 2) aggressive baseliner, 3) all-court-player, and 4) serve-and-volleyer. Not only it recommends drill patterns for your particular style of play, it also offers a valuable look at the drill patterns that your opponent with a different style may (and surely will) use against you during a match. As an aggressive baseliner, I have always found playing against counterpunchers frustrating - now I know why. And if you are willing to step out of your comfort zone, and practise every drill in this book (as long as your level allows it, of course), your tennis skills will improve greatly. It goes without saying that you need another dedicated player to practise the drills for singles (or three for doubles), and a coach who will guide you through the drills and make necessary corrections (especially if you are a beginner or intermediate player). A great book for every competitive tennis player!

UNDERSTANDING THE GAME
I coach tennis for kids and teenagers for over 12 years. In order to plan classes not boring and profitable, I seek books that have pratical drills.
Besides having this kind of drills, this book shows you HOW, WHY and WHEN you should apply them to a specific game situation. Using diferent patterns of play, from the defensive player to the aggressive one, this book matches drills with tactics, giving you a good perspective of THE GAME.
I strongly recommend it.

Mário Santos
Tennis Coach
PORTUGAL ... Read more

Product Description
Ace your tennis game with all the tips, tricks, tactics, and techniques of professional tennis players awaiting discovery in Tennis For Dummies, written by veteran tour player and ESPN sports commentator Patrick McEnroe (with a foreword by brother John). This is your grand slam guide to tennis, whether you're a player or a spectator. You'll find courtside coverage of everything from equipment and etiquette to scoring and strategies packed inside this friendly and fun primer.

Whatever your level of play, you'll find what you need -- and what you want to know -- in this insider's guide to great tennis. Conquer the courtside vernacular, improve your basic strokes, learn a little strategy, bounce back from common injuries like shin splints and tennis elbow, and even make the move up to the big leagues and competitive tennis matches. With Tennis For Dummies, take a sneak peek behind the scenes at pro matches or peruse Mac's lists of the top ten male tennis players, female tennis players, and matches of the Open era.Amazon.com Review
Written for tennis newcomers but with enough detail to satisfyseasoned players, Tennis for Dummies offers practical,substantive, and perceptive advice on a subject that the United StatesTennis Association describes as a "sport for a lifetime." PatrickMcEnroe--little brother of John McEnroe--collaborates with Peter Bodoto provide a wealth of tennis tips, such as the difference between aball's pace on slick grass courts and the slow, high bounceexperienced on clay courts. Useful advice includes such things as howto find a good coach, which Web sites offer the most comprehensivetennis news, and how to respond when your opponent questions a closecall: "I'm sorry, but I never had a moment of doubt. That ball wasclearly out." Sprinkled throughout the book are interesting anecdotesabout McEnroe's career, including an amusing exchange with his fiancéeduring a match, in which she eagerly and innocently advised him tojust "get it over the net, Pat!" Those keen to take up a new hobby orto simply learn more about the sport they already love will appreciateeverything this book has to offer--game, set, and match. --JeremyStorey ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Too many errors
I was quite confused by this book which supposed to be simple. Later on I realized some part of the book is wrong.

e.g. The picture of the ad/deuce side of the court is exactly the opposite, although some text to describe them in later chapter seems to be correct.

The description of grips is even more confusing. I don't understand, why can't the book just simply mark it on the racquet and your hand? Is that so hard to do?

I don't know whether the author made those mistakes or the printer just mis-printed them, but after reading this book, I had to do a lot of research on line to finally get the basic rules.

Tennis for ANYONE and EVERYONE
This book has a lot of useful information and it is very easy to read and understand. Good pictures and description on various tennis topics/instructions. Well written by a former tennis player.

Great book in timely manner!
My book (Tennis for Dummies) arrived shortly after placing the order-no long wait here! And besides natural aging (yellowing of pages, faded cover) the book arrived in perfect condition.

If Patrick McEnroe Wrote it, Read It
Patrick McEnroe is our family's favorite tennis commentator. You can literally become a better player just by listening to his comments. Now that he's doing the Davis Cup our whole family misses him so much on the matches on television. Patrick is a walking tennis encylopedia.

Great book for anyone interested in Tennis
This is the first book I bought about Tennis when I got into the sport over a year ago.Its not fancy with a lot of glossy photos of pro players, BUT it is one of the most useful and fun to read Tennis books I have found.If you are an absolute beginner, its a fun, interesting and non-scary introduction to the game.For more advanced players, its still great for refreshing basic details and rules, learning tennis-related exercise routines, etc.McEnroe's sense of humor is great and it makes the otherwise dull task of describing in writing a dynamic game much more intereseting.Lots of fun for anyone with any interest in Tennis.Like most of the "Dummies" books, sometimes you have to flip around sequentially for information, but thats not a big deal in the end. ... Read more

Product Description
Ryoma Echizen just joined the Seishun Academy's tennis team, which is known for being one of the most competitive teams in Japan. While most of the freshmen are on pins and needles hoping they won't get cut from the team, Ryoma Echizen is confident, cool, and collected. Some might even say he's cocky, but at least he's got the skills to back up his attitude. With his virtually unreturnable "twist serve," Ryoma is sure to make the starting team.

The Kanto Tournament Finals are down to the last two matches, with the top players for the two best teams--Seishun and Rikkai--engaged in a fierce battle for dominance. As Shusuke and Akaya's match reaches its surprising end, the final showdown begins: Ryoma vs. "Emperor" Genichiro Sanada. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Enter Psychopath
Volume 10 opens with Ryoma being conned into taking over his dad's tennis lessons (he's probably too busy looking at porn). Suprisingly, his tutorees end up being Sakuno and her friend. In a strange twist of fate, an errant ball by Sakuno leads to her getting bullied by the Ginka Jr. High tennis team. Ginka happens to be Seishun's next opponent in the upcoming City Tournament Semifinals. And Ryoma decides to take them on by himself. All 30 members! We also meet a new character named Jin, a Yamabuki Junior High tennis player who has a slight psychopathic streak. He starts kicking and punching anybody that tells him what to do. Instead of a chip on his shoulder, he appears to have a mountain! His new target of hostilty seems to be Ryoma Echizen. As the semifinals approach, Captain Tezuka decides to prep everyone by having intrasquad matches. First up is Ryoma vs. Shusuke.

I have to say that even though he's not a common pompadour sporting street thug, he is quite tough when he wants to be. He's not afraid to stand up against 30 guys if it means protecting Sakuno. He also doesn't back down from confrontation with Jin, who appears to strike the fear of god into all those that cross him. It's just really cool seeing Ryoma being brave even if he is a little dude.

I also wanted to comment on the genius of Takeshi Konomi's character designs. As you can tell from the cover of this volume, Konomi is not afraid to show off his team in a shojoesque, maybe even faintly yaoish way. It says on the splash page that while the Prince of Tennis was originally intended to be a comic for boys, it attracted legions of female fans. And it's easy to see why. The main cast would not look out of place, with some minor modifications, in the pages of Fruits Basket. And that's what makes Konomi so smart. I think you have all the Shonen Jump action and level progression along with the good looks of the guys and their relationships with each other which leans more towards the shojo side of things.

Uncertain


Can't really give an accurate review since it was purchased for a grandson whom I want to interest in the game of tennis. I did read PART of it and found the format interesting-particularly for a boy- and am interested to hear what the grandson has to say, Sorry

"Then all this time he was playing with his weak arm?!"
This is one of those manga that grows on you. At the beginning I found the main character to be too cocky for my taste, but I soon got around to liking him more. This is because Ryoma Echizen, the twelve-year-old tennis prodigy, has reasons for the way in which he behaves, and as the volumes of the manga progress, we slowly get to understand him better. Besides, some of his opponents are so obnoxious, that Ryoma's attitude does not seem all that out of place.

The story starts with Ryoma arriving at Seigaku, a high school that counts with one of the best tennis teams in the nation, and fighting to make the team, or as they are call it in the manga, regulars. This is not an easy task, and no freshman has done it in the past, but Ryoma counts with an unparalleled confidence and an impeccable lineage, his father was one of Japan's best tennis players until an injury forced him to retire. Will he be up to the challenge?

The author of the manga is an ex-tennis player and coach, so it is clear that the misplaced players in the court are intentional, but it still bothered me a little bit, since I do not understand the need for this. Also, there is the recurring theme of Ryoma playing with his weak hand, which gets old quickly. Nevertheless, the rest of the aspects are very good, and make this a sports manga worth trying out. The drawings are extremely detailed and convey the action scenes efficiently. As is common in the sub-genre, there is a fair amount of humor, which in this case is executed well. Also, there is a hint of romance in the air and there is definitely more to come.

Even though I would not say that this is one of the best sports manga available, Hajime no Ippo definitely takes the top spot in my list, it is a product that is good enough to deserve a chance. The good thing is that once the competition starts you are hooked, wanting to know what will happen next. Luckily, in this sense, this manga does not commit the error of having matches that last too long, which helps move things along and keep it interesting.

awesome
Never read the manga but saw the anime in english and japanese. Prefer more in japanese the english version makes their voices weird. Lol this anime is awesome, and I cannot wait to read my first POT manga very soon. Will tell you guys what I think.

Will and Determination
This Volume is thrilling to read.You go from maturing during a match to believing in your abilities.As the rest of the books, it always makes you think you are there.You want to talk to the characters and tell them their opponents flaws.It is a great read! ... Read more

Product Description
Take Your Doubles Game to the Next Level!

Whether you're trying to improve your doubles game or are just getting started playing tennis with a partner, The Art of Doubles is the book for you. Author Pat Blaskower is your personal coach, guiding and encouraging you and your partner to play winning tennis by showing you how to:

• choose a compatible partner
• determine your jobs on the court
• learn poaching skills
• communicate with each other and opposing teams
• maintain mental toughness
• use various formations and strategies
• pick your shots intelligently
• decide where to play: tournaments or leagues
• and much, much more!

The book also includes detailed court diagrams that show you how to execute offense, defense, and tactical plays; checklists that summarize the most important points of each chapter; and on-court drills to help you improve and refine your skills. The Art of Doubles is loaded with practical, proven tennis strategies that you can put to work immediately to see improvements in your own doubles game! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

The Art of Doubles
The Art of Doubles by Blaskower-2nd edition

This book is so great that I shared it with my doubles partner who coaches a team and she doesn't want to give it back.I am going to order another copy.The drills are great and there are so many ideas on stategy that we are using and it has made us a stronger doubles team.Do make sure that you buy the 2nd edition with the woman on the forefront of the cover.I would highly recommend it to others.

needs editing
Let me start my review by stating that nothing herein is intended to a critique of the author's theories of doubles strategy. to the contrary, i found the theories to be thought-provoking and useful.

my critique is intended to be of use when the author undertakes drafting the next edition: this books needs serious editing. i found myself having to re-read sections several times just to understand what was intended by the author, which generated quite a bit of frustration and also interrupted the flow of the section and thus, the points and themes that the section was discussing.i found the prose to be extremely confusing and, dare i say it, poorly written and laden with what seemed to be substantive errors.

rather than go on with generalities, let me provide some specific suggestions: (1) the term "volley" is ambiguous as it can mean "volley" in particular or "shot" in general - substituting "shot" or "hit" for shots that aren't volleys per se would go a long way toward making the prose easier to understand; (2) the diagrams have some errors and not just typos; (3) the shorthand for shots shown in the diagrams (see the legend) yielded aeveral confusing or ambuguous diagrams. regarding the last point, i suggest rather than using A, B, & C, the author use 1, 2, & 3 to refer to the first, second and third shot; use C to mean a/the correct shot, W[wrong] or I [incorrect] to mean a/the incorrect or wrong shot; S to mean "serve" and R to mean "return of serve" where 1 may ambigously mean one and/or the other in the same diagram. Also, when the author refers to "you," it should always be clear as to which position or turn "you" is intended to refer in that sentence's or paragraph's context. Other edits, especially regarding poor and confusing sentence structure, would be basic to a professional editor and need not be detailed here.

i anticipate someone will fault the grammar, clarity and typos in this review, but of course that is irrelevant to the book's need for editing.after all, i am not asking anyone to pay for my opinions whereas the author is.

We're winning matches using Pat's strategies!
When we began playing tennis 4 years ago, we purchased the first edition of The Art of Doubles.Pat showed us strategies that no one else was teaching and we referred to her book many times since 2005.Now that we are reading Pat's second edition, with her new strategies that are evolving like the game of tennis is, we are winning matches.Even when we are playing with other partners who aren't using our new strategies, we are scoring more points than we used to.I will read this book cover to cover many times over like I did the first edition.I highly recommend this book to anyone who plays tennis or who is considering playing someday.

The Art of Doubles: Winning Tennis Strategies and Drills
I have been able to apply the strategies and tactics presented in this book immediately and have noticed that I am playing doubles better and with more intelligence and fore thought after having read this book.

Fabulous book for all doubles enthusiasts
I stumbled onto this book while browsing at Barnes and Noble.It is GREAT-- packed with so much foundational wisdom, including positioning theories that run counter to how many pros teach people how to play doubles-- or which simply are never mentioned in your typical doubles clinic.I am re-reading the book for the third time and expect to continue to absorb new information in subsequent re-readings. This book is DENSE with savvy advice and helps you coach yourself, your partner, and your team.I can hardly wait until my partner receives her copy. ... Read more

Product Description

He's been called the best in the world at the mental game of tennis. Brad Gilbert's strokes may not be pretty, but looks aren't everything. He has beaten the Tour's biggest names -- all by playing his "ugly" game.

Now, in Winning Ugly Gilbert teaches recreational players how to win more often without necessarily even changing their strokes. The key to success, he says, is to become a better thinking player -- to recognize, analyze, and capitalize. That means outthinking opponents before, during, and after a match; forcing him or her to play your game. Gilbert's unconventional advice includes:

* How to identify the seven "Hidden Ad Points," and what to do when they come up
* Six reasons why you should never serve first
* How to beat a Lefty, a Retriever, a Serve-Volley player, and other troublesome opponents
* How to keep a lead, or stop a match from slipping away
* How to handle psyching and gamesmanship

Winning Ugly is an invaluable combat manual for the court, and its tips include "some real gems," according to Tennis magazine. Ultimately, Winning Ugly will help you beat players who have been beating you. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (70)

a must for all tennis players
i am a 4.0 recreational tennis player and currently taking some time off as my wife and i welcomed twin girls into our lives.since i am not playing much tennis for a bit, i wanted to do something to improve my game, hence, i ordered this book.i found it to be very informative with some excellent real world tips to improve your game.it is amazing how many small improvements add up to the difference between winning and losing some matches.i highly recommend this.it is an easy read, can read it in a day or two and enjoy it.

Great for tennis and everyday life
This book is motivational and fun to read. The advise to activate your brain and start using it is very applicable for any situation not just a tennis match.

Winning Ugly
Brad Gilbert is an admitted long-time sports nut and analytical strategist, and he brings his unique, analytical perspective to tennis.After having read his book (I'm on the second go-round), I'm finding myself much more observant of both my own game and that of my opponent.The book is more of a left brained Inner Guide to Tennis, and is well worth the reading time.Plus, Gilbert has a kind of sardonic, self-depreciating sense of humor which makes it fun to read.

Winning Ugly.
Great book.Lots of useful tips to make your tennis game better. Entertaining as well,since the book is peppered with personal anecdotes to illustrate his point.The only thing is that I was not following tennis during his professional career,so I only know the players of his era superficially.

Love this book!
[I'm an intermediate/avid tennis player.] This is a GREAT book. Gilbert is very matter-of-fact about how he was not a #1 player, but how by utilizing little tricks/techniques in both summing up his opponents and in being realistic about his own strengths/weaknesses -- he was able to make his own mark on the world of professional tennis. He does have specific examples of his matches with some of the greats, which are interesting to read -- but they're not so much used as "the story of Gilbert" -- but more as references for his suggestions on how to approach similar situations in the readers' own personal matches. In this book, Gilbert talks about how one needs to take advantage of a myriad of smaller elements -- which in sum, can actually give you the edge in the game. I read this book initially, but now will still pick it up regularly, just to read a chapter here and there, to remind myself of some of his strategies. I think about Gilbert's advice regularly when I play -- and I believe that it really can make a difference when utilized. ... Read more

Product Description
"The game with yourself is often tougher than the battle against any opponent. Smart Tennis shows you how to win the inner match while having fun along the way."--Lindsay Davenport, world's #1 ranked player for 1998

Become a More Competent-and Confident-Tennis Player

Smart Tennis is the secret weapon that tucks right into your tennis bag. Apply these proven principles of sport psychology to your game and gain a winning advantage both on and off the courts.

"Smart Tennis is a must for players at all levels-from beginners to Wimbledon champions! An outstanding book for understanding and improving your mental game."--Vic Braden, tennis telecaster and researcher

"If you ever want to use the title of this book to describe how you played your last match, then Smart Tennisis for you."--David Higdon, senior writer,Tennis Magazine

"This is an excellent book of psychological skills that can be immediately applied on the tennis court."--E. Paul Roetert, Ph.D., Administration of Sports Science, United States Tennis Association

... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Just another generic self help book
After reading `Winning Ugly' this book was very disappointing. Writing is boring and repetitive. It feels like the author only wanted to point out his importance by constantly emphasizing it. His idea would fit on several pages and really didn't need the entire book.

Smart Tennis Can Win More Games
"Smart Tennis" is the solution for tennis players that have peaked at their game and can't seem to win the crucial points and matches, but have the physical capability to be a great player.Do you choke when down 0-40 in a game, or lose the tiebreaker after working hard to tie at 6-6?If so, "Smart Tennis" is for you.

I played a lot of tennis when I was younger, estimated at a 4.0 player, from age 30 - 35.Then, I took a short-term sabbatical because of long work hours, hanging up my tennis cap for five years.After selling my company at age 40, I retired and returned to tennis.However, I was shocked that tennis lessons weren't doing an adequate job.I became increasingly frustrated that my level of play was closer to 3.0 as I had too many unforced errors.I continuously beat myself up for being so incompetent.I seemed to be getting worse every lesson.So, I doubled my tennis lessons to two 2-hour sessions a week.Unfortunately, I performed no better six weeks later.I had the physical capabilities, but my mental game had fallen apart.I would repeat drills over and over wondering why I couldn't get the most simple techniques nailed down.

Prior to the Christmas holiday, I bought "Smart Tennis" and read it during my trip visiting friends and family.When I returned, I couldn't wait to implement the new lessons on the "mental" game.When I started reading the first chapter, I was amazed that all of the symptoms were very familiar, so I read "Smart Tennis" with great interest.

When I returned home, I played a colleague.In a recent ladder, I lost my match with this colleague, a score of 4-6, 3-6.I had too many unforced errors.When the ladder ended, the colleague and I began playing weekly.For the past few months, we have consistently split sets.However, since reading "Smart Tennis" I have dominated the past two outings: 1) 6-2, 6-3 and 2) 6-2, 7-6 and 6-1.

The colleague has been shocked that my level of play has changed so dramatically.I explained that "Smart Tennis" has revolutionalized my game, giving me the mental fitness to hit more winning shots and significantly reducing my unforced errors.The chapters on Attention Control and Imagery have made a profound difference in my tennis game.

As a good sport, I am also buying my colleague "Smart Tennis".Although I'll lose my great advantage, I can't resist sharing this great knowledge with a good buddy."Smart Tennis" is a must for anyone interested in improving their tennis game.

A must-read for tennis players and coaches
Dr. Murray gets it...this wonderful book is not only easy to read and informative, but small enough that it can be carried around in your tennis bag, backpack or briefcase. I highly recommend this book!

Ed Tseng
Pro of the Year USTA/NJD 2005
Peak Performance Expert
Author of "Game. Set. Life. - Peak Performance for Sports and Life"

Daily motivational messages: http://www.edtseng.com

This is a great book
Whether you be a beginner, a recreational player, of any age, or a professional tennis player this is a book people at all levels of ability will want to read.It is a great book for anyone who likes to play tennis.Dr. Murray writes very well and his insights on the mental aspects of the game, which are so important, will help all of us play better tennis.

Mental equipment is truly important
Mr. Murray does an excellent job of proving that "mental equipment" is helpful and beneficial to your game. I truly believe that you can't operate to your fullest physically without aid from the mental side of the game. The only thing that I was less than satisfied with is that he dedicates majority of his book to illustrate how mental equipment is important, but offers little assistance in improving your mental equipment. He uses excellent examples and truly illustrates his point clearly and directly. As for tips on how to improve your mental equipment, he has only offered about 1-2 pages worth of advice. For example, he spends 32 out of 34 pages of the chapter on attentional control, explaining the different types of attentional control, the problems with attention (such as:excessive stress, choking, etc.), and also explains how having selective attention and concentration is highly useful. He goes on to tell you the optimal effects of stress on attention. The only problem with all this is that after illustrating all the problems, and explaining where you need to be in terms of attention control, he offeres little advice to explain how to achieve the optimal attention control. In fact, only 2 pages out of 34 were actual advice on how to improve attention control and find that state of effortless effort commonly called the "zone" by tennis players. But, one must give Mr. Murray credit for writing a book on the mental game as very few books are written on this subject effectively. Afterall, isn't the human mind very complex? My suggestion is to buy the book if you want to learn about his philosophy on the mental game of tennis, but if you want advice on how to improve the mental game, then you might be slightly disappointed unless your satisfied with the 2 pages of every chapter dedicated to specific tips for improving. ... Read more

Product Description

A tennis tune-up for players of all skill levels.

From the serve, ground strokes and volleys to the smashes, lobs and drop shots, this unique coaching manual illustrates each stroke from five angles: front, back, left, right and above. In this all-around skills guide, tennis pro John Littleford delivers expert guidance to identify accurate positioning of feet, body and the racquet -- just like having a personal pro watching, correcting and coaching every swing.

Tennis Strokes and Tactics features step-by-step analysis and multi-angle photography that illustrates how to:

• Track the ball to the racquet head using hand-eye coordination
• Maintain correct posture and good footwork
• Establish correct and comfortable grips
• Hit a forehand with great topspin
• Master the secrets of the backhand -- one-handed and two-handed
• Control the ball with power on volleys
• Serve with more speed, spin and deception
• Return serve with more punch and accuracy
• Use the lob and drop shot as devastating offensive weapons
• Master an accurate and powerful overhead smash
• Move across the court more fluidly for greater efficiency.

Tennis Strokes and Tactics also includes a comprehensive section on effective tactics and strategies for singles and doubles play. Using this innovative guide, tennis players of any level will improve their game.

Customer Reviews (2)

Very Good For New Players
I just purchased this book to help improve my tennis game.I have been playing just a few months with my roommate (who was a professional tennis instructor).He is good at demonstrating different techniques and shots, but I needed to have something to help me when he was not able to be around to instruct me.

The book is very nice, paperback, with full color pictures on quality, glossy paper.I often toss it in my tennis bag, so it's durable too.

The book shows each shot in a succession of four to six photos from four angles.It then goes in depth detailing what you should be doing at each moment of each swing.They cover most of the basic forehand, backhand, drop shot, overhead, and volley shots.They also have a couple of service demonstrations (though I would recommend watching some youtube slow motion videos for learning service technique).

The book also includes a few pointers about the game, such as touching briefly on scoring, serving (which side, etc), sportsmanship, conduct, doubles formations, and a glossary.Overall an invaluable book for a new player, but one that I think will only be of great use until a 4.5 to 5+ level.Great for the developing player, and it has helped my forehand topspin quite a bit!

A very good and unique tennis instruction book
I am a USTA 4.5 level player and I found this book very helpful to my game. The photos from different angles really show you how to accurately position your body and racket. It is really an excellent book to tune up your game. I think the book is well written and very easy to understand. Most of all, it is fun to read. ... Read more

Product Description
Whether you are just starting out, have been competing for decades, or are returning to the game after an extended break, Playing Tennis After 50 will improve your play and enhance your experience on and off the court.

With tactics and techniques ranging from basic to advanced, you'll learn to adapt court positioning and tweak shot selection for stellar singles, doubles, and mixed doubles play. Special features such as how-to-practice games and Stroke Doctor tips will correct common errors and improve skills while you play the game.

Off the court, Playing Tennis After 50 will help you avoid aches and injury with stretching and strengthening exercises. Then double your pleasure with expert information on the latest equipment, tips on finding the right club and playing partner, and ways to make tennis alifelong activity! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Girl Talk!
Obviously written by girl for girl with most of content on emotion, talk talk talk before during after game. Guys get enough of that and just want to get on the court and go at it regardless of AGE. 70 % fluff. The objective is to play.

Very well written book - Better for weaker tennis players.
If you are an older person who is considering taking up tennis or have played for fun but want to get a bit more serious about it then this book is your bible.It covers all aspects of the game though there are entire books written about the topics of each of its chapters.Its not complete but it is broad in coverage.

The segments on health, strategy and tactical consideration for older players was good and so was the dynamics and psychology of doubles and singles play.You're not going to get all those topics in just any other book.

There are a lot of tennis books out there but what really allows this book to stand out is that it is well written, easy to understand, and nicely illustrated.All this adds up to a book that can convey its knowledge well.

For less than the price of a private lesson this is a winner.

From singles and doubles play to practice and improvement tips for any over 50
Whether you're over 50 and new to tennis or returning to the game after a long break, PLAYING TENNIS AFTER 50 is for any who would return to the sport. Discussions range from beginning to advanced techniques and cover everything from singles and doubles play to practice and improvement tips for any over 50. The exercises for over-50 participants are a key and important part of this fine resource.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Made my tennis more rewarding and challenging
I've been playing tennis for many years and had got into a rut.Playing Tennis After 50 has "juiced" my interest by changing my approach to the game from the point that I walk on the court all the way through play.I am doing more than just playing at tennis. I now have more than a vague idea of what I am about to do.Its about goals, strategy and tactics as well as more basic stuff.A must for my bedside reading between games!

Playing tennis after 50 and loving it!
This is a must read tennis book for seniors who are beginners and also a refresher book for more advanced senior players. A tennis 101 course
with illustrations on strategy and techniques for singles and doubles.
Emphasizing that tennis can be a fun lifetime sport, no matter what the age. It is a very encouraging read for those of us who are seniors,
who love the game and know the benefits.

Linda Pugliese ... Read more

Customer Reviews (39)

Pure unadulterated mormon pablum
I tried to read this book and found it incredibly boring as it is nothing but fiction about fictional groups, like the nephites, who never existed except in the mind of Joseph Smith.It is short and simple Mormon propaganda.Read the book of Mormon for more propaganda.

Worth reading even if you are not a Mormon
I am NOT a Mormon, but I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone looking for an entertaining read and a better understanding of Mormon beliefs.

Imagination inspired
I began this series when I was young and loved it then. Now as an adult with kids of my own I love it even more. FOr me, it inspired thought, and imagination. The concept of time travel has been explored in so many different ways in literature and on screen and it is still intriguing to me. This book and the series, combines time travel with scripture heros -fictional characters with real- and it only strengthened my desire to go back and read the scriptures more thoroughly.My son is 9 and I am getting ready to introduce "Tennis Shoes" to him, and I have no doubt that he will enjoy it as I did.

LDS classic
So this is pretty much a classic among LDS kids' literature. Heimerdinger's voice is fun and observant and makes sure to get inside his characters' heads. It's also just a great little adventure into Book of Mormon times. The rest of the series has its understandable ups and downs, but this one can stand on its own with power and respectability for doing what all novels should do: tell a a great story.

These Tennis Shoes Rock!
Tennis Shoes Among the Nephites
A book by Chris Heimerdinger
The Tennis Shoes series is originally about a boy who travels back in time to an ancient civilization called the Nephites (a people whose writings make the "Book of Mormon", which is a book the religious people called "Mormons" or the "L.D.S." people base their beliefs).Armed with modern gadgets, the boy, named Jim, his sister Jenny, and their enemy-turned-friend, Garth, are out for the adventure of their lives.
When Garth finds an ancient cave, which he believes holds hieroglyphs made by the Nephites, he begs Jim and Jenny to come along.When they reluctantly agree, they find themselves sucked into a whirlpool of a lake, which they are manipulated by and finally spewed out on a waterfall.Where they are, they have no idea.
The three-some suddenly realize they are in a world where there is no electricity, no cars, no boats, not anything!Jim finds out that they are in the world of the Nephites.How can they get home?How can they make friends with these nomadic people?How can they make sure that they don't get eaten by wild beasts?Read this book and you will be hooked until the very end!
"Tennis Shoes Among the Nephites" is only the first of ten books!In the next nine, Jim's family and friends also find this historic cave, but it doesn't only take them to the land of the Nephites!Read these books to find adventures in Mexico, ancient Rome, the Mayan empire, ancient Babylon, and much, much more!

Reviewed by:
Megan ... Read more

Product Description
If you have tennis elbow that won't go away, this book is for you. If you don't have a lot of time and money to spend on rehabilitating your arm, this book is for you.

Drawing from the latest research, Treat Your Own Tennis Elbow will show you exactly how to fix your tennis elbow, or what doctors call lateral epicondylitis. In under 100 pages, readers will quickly learn what the problem is, how it got there, and what they can do to permanently eliminate it.

Based on randomized controlled trials from peer-reviewed journals, Treat Your Own Tennis Elbow offers a simple, yet effective program that can quite easily be done in the privacy of one's home with little cost or equipment. Handy worksheets are included to help the reader track their progress through a step-by-step plan which takes just minutes a day to complete.

Want to avoid getting tennis elbow? The same treatment strategies and exercises in Treat Your Own Tennis Elbow will also prevent it! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Easy to understand
The author makes the information easy to understand.The information is simple and thorough, the illustrations are clear.All in all this book is excellent for users who have this particular problem.You don't get bog down with too much text and get right down to the point.I would highly recommend this book

Works for "printer's elbow" too
I spent a long time working my way out of the printing industry only to find myself right back in it last May - after 4 years at a real job - thanks to the economy and layoffs. So now my arm hurts like hades, especially after busy periods when we have a lot of overtime. It only seemed to get better over the 4th of July weekend holiday, so it was obvious it was my job. So what to do? I was willing to try about anything. I sure didn't want to go to the doctor, have them charge me a copayment, then tell me to take freakin' ADVIL - AGAIN!! Come on, guys. Been there done that - with headaches, back pain, swollen lymph node, etc. I can take Advil without a doctor visit. So, I'll cut to the chase - the book totally makes sense, totally explains everything in language I can understand, and it worked. I'll admit the "brace" idea scared me at first until I saw the picture on page 31. Page 31 pretty much nailed it though as to the exact cause. It showed exactly where this muscle is and what it does, and that's exactly the spot where I keep grabbing my arm and shaking out my hand.

Now the brace I haven't bought yet, but my sister had some of those weights in storage so I went to get them. Here's the pleasant surprise - the exercises with the dumbbells on page 47 actually feel really good. It's like a stretching feeling that isn't unpleasant at all - maybe a mild sting is all. In fact, I did them every day at first which probably explains the stinging. But it feels good. And, there's a whole chart in the back that helps you keep track of when to do what. Now I'm following that, and it's going better (well the last couple of days I've been writing it down). I'll see if Walgreens or someone has that brace. But I'm practically pain free already. Also I volunteered to clear pallets for a week and work that muscle less - I'm sure that has something to do with it too. Giving the muscle a chance to heal, like the book says. In any case I got the whole thing read in one evening, got the answers I wanted. My day is full enough - I just wanted this pain to go away. Not another textbook. This was exactly what I was looking for.

Excellent Book
This book gets a full five-star rating from me.Without a doubt I am getting a great return for the money it cost and for the time I spend reading it and following its exercises.I really like the straight-forward explanatory style and well-organized presentation of the scientific, evidence-based material pertinent to tennis elbow that this book is packed with.

While one might find bits and pieces of information about tennis elbow here and there, the author of this book found what the evidence-based research showed actually works and put it together to create an excellent, concise, easy to understand self-help book.I found it very helpful that right up-front even before the table of contents, it tells you how the book is set up.For me it set the course I would take reading kind of like a roadmap.The numerous pictures and summarized key points for each chapter as well as the Quickstart Guide are all very helpful.And I feel that the section on measuring my progress is extremely valuable.I definitely recommend this book to anyone suffering from tennis elbow.

Don't bother with this book
This book was written for a pre-school level audience.Nothing in this book is worth the price.There is more white space than words or pictures.All the information is readily available on the internet in about 5 minutes.Don't bother waiting 3 days for this book and especially don't waste one red cent to purchase it.

Just Starting and it is EXCELENT
Hello.I'm practicing the exercises now for 7 days and I feel already better.All the information is very interesting except may be for all the studies... It could be shorter at this point.Other than that is very practical and the exercises are very simple.

The best is the tracking system.It really let you follow your progress with numbers... In my case very important.

Thank you. ... Read more

Product Description
A Davis Cup winner and Pepperdine coach has written the first book on the strategy and mental dimension of the game since the bestselling The Inner Game of Tennis. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Thorough and Understandable
Enjoyed this book.It was helpful in understanding basic tennis strategy for someone who has the basics of groundstrokes, volleys and overheads, but needs help understanding where to hit shots and when

GOOD BUT A LITTLE ANTIQUATED
I'm a clay court tennis player 6.0-6.5
This book is a contribution to the strategic view of the tennis game undoubtedly.
However, the groundstroke instructions are a little "old style" or "antiquated methods". Today the biomechanical research, have shown that the wrist must to be involved in all the groundstrokes, like a kinetic chain. This is the reason of the tremendous power in the modern game. Nevertheless, this book is a very "educational book" of the world of strategic tennis. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Perfect for New Intermediates
This book very clearly explains the purposes of various shots, how to decide on a winning style for yourself, and how to construct winning points from the baseline and from the net. For a college player or old timer most of this will be old hat, but for the vast majority of intermediates who have learned the strokes but can't win against experienced players, this is mandatory reading. The diagrams are clear but they do require a few seconds of thinking and visualization; this is strategy after all.

Great teacher but average book
Having throughly enjoyed Brad Gilbert's book, I hoped to learn even more from his former coach who shaped Brad into the world class player he was.Unfortunately this book is written in the typical how to play tennis and be better at it.There are pictures showing the different strokes and grips.It's actually not similar to Brad's book at all although it does have a couple examples of how Brad and other players used mental advantages to win matches against better players.

If you are a beginner and want to read a good "how to" book, this would be fine.But if you already play and are looking for some useful tips from a master, this doesn't quite fill the bill.

Strategy from a geometric point of view!
This book specializes in strategy from a geometric point of view. This means that it helps you analyze your options and explains why an option is best. It also explains what is the best spot to recover to after hitting a certain shot. I find this very useful because the author throughly explains why. I don't often apply something to my game unless I know exactly why I am doing it. This way I won't feel reluctant or unsure about doing something. This book takes away my reluctance because the author explains exactly why what he preaches is ideal. It is ideal because he explains how what he says is the best based on angles, court coverage, and percentages. I also enjoyed the chapter on strategy of past champions and current champions such as McEnroe or Becker, and the chapter on game plans. I didn't like his advice on tennis strokes though, but it is still worth the read just for another opinion because no one knows everything. I'd give this book a 4.5 star rating and I believe it is a must read for any tennis player. ... Read more

Product Description
40 Years...40 ChampionsFor two wondrous weeks each summer, the US Open showcases the sport of tennis and its greatest players. Day and night, through seven rounds of play, only the best of the best survive. In fact, only 40 players in the 40 years of Open tennis have raised the US Open singles championship trophy. Billie. Chrissie. Jimbo. McEnroe. Martina. Pete. Andre. Serena. Venus. They've become household names in countless households. But that's what happens when you have the world's toughest tennis being played before worldwide fans at the game's greatest show. A test not only of talent but of will, an annual drama spotlighting not just athletic achievement but head and heart, the US Open--America's Grand Slam--is where the stars or tennis really earn their stripes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Brilliant Tennis Book for all ages
If you are a tennis fanatic or not this book is a winner! The writing,editing and photos are outstanding. It makes a super gift for the tennis player or someone who may be interested in learning about the US Open Tennis Champions in New York. Makes a beautiful coffee table book in any office or home!

Fantastic
Got it this morning. Book is beautiful and in perfect condition. Definitely will use this seller again.

Book About US OPEN Tennis in NY
This is a magnificent book about the US Tennis background held in NY every year. The book is large and extremely informative. There are numerous photos of the past players etc. It is well worth reading and keeping in any library.

Wonderful
This is a lovely book, which will we will want to own, but also makes a great gift.

Great photos, and more.
The first thing I did when I opened this book was to look at the pictures; all of them!The photography is so spectacular that I couldn't stop until I saw them all.The Open Book is a history of the US Open Tennis Championships during the 40 years of the "open" (professional) era of tennis.It covers each decade since the beginning of the open era in 1968, using photos, statistics, and articles by famous tennis journalists. The photographs, as mentioned above, are amazing, and lead you through the story of the Open, with a few thrown in "out of order" to make you think about the connections between players of different decades, and to marvel at the way the game of tennis has changed over the years.I found it interesting to read the articles and opinions written during each phase of the change over from the amateur to professional era, through the institution of the tie break, equal prize money for women players, and the birth of the National Tennis Center.The statistics are interesting, but don't make your eyes glaze over if you're not a stats person, and there is also a dvd with information about the players immortalized on the Us Open Court of Champions.This book has so much information, that I expect to find something I "missed the first time", every time I open the book.As an avid tennis player and fan, I highly recommend "The Open Book" to anyone who has an interest in the game. ... Read more

Product Description
Step up to table tennis success! Table Tennis: Steps to Success combines the knowledge and experience of master instructor Richard McAfee with essential table tennis techniques and strategies for today's player.

With a unique 11-step approach designed to maximize table tennis instruction, you'll learn the proper grip for your style of play, execution of the basic strokes, and the correct way to apply spin to the ball. Then, build on these core techniques with masterful footwork, serves, returns, and stroke combinations.

Best of all, learn how and when to apply those skills in match play. With competitive strategies--adapted for both you and your opponent's playing style--you'll raise your game to a new level. And with clear instruction, comprehensive coverage, detailed photo sequences, and drills to ensure mastery of every technique, you'll be playing--and winning--in no time.

As part of the Steps to Success Sports Series--with more than 1.5 million copies sold--rest assured that Table Tennis: Steps to Success is the #1 resource for learning, and loving, the game. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Some helpful tips make this book worthwhile
I have been playing pingpong for years but never had lessons, read any instructions, or had anyone teach me.I decided to get this book.It Explains footwork, strokes, understanding and imparting spin, and returning serves.I wasnt too interested in the history of ping-pong but the step by step lessons were good.I came to realize that I had developed some bad habbits and skipped over some important developmental steps since my goal was to improve my game at work where it is friendly but competitive.

Best reading on table tennis I have found
I am a member of a small table tennis club (15 or less members), and everyone who has read this (we have shared it) has learned something from the book.It is a well organized, practical, and as much as is possible to write about a visual sport, helpful.The guy obviously knows how to coach; if I could live in Denver, I would definitely try to get some coaching time in from him.But I digress, back to the book, he has numerous useful photos showing various skills and how to practice certain drills to make you more proficient.All of our group loves his picture on serves (it shows a wheel and the angle of the paddle coming up from the wheel to give the proper angle for the paddle to come up to make contact with the ball.You have to see it to understand it.Anyway, it's a good book, well worth the money if you are in the lower or middle range of table tennis skills.

Very Pleased!
Haven't finished book yet but based upon what I have read, the book gives great technique on playing table tennis.Illustrations are well done and concepts are easy to grasp.Drills are effective and specific to skill sets trained for.

Learn the Modern Attacking Style
An excellent book for beginning and novice players wanting to learn the modern attacking style of play.Also has some information that can be of value to more experienced players.Explains footwork, strokes, understanding and imparting spin, and returning serves.Gives training drills for developing basic table tennis skills.Gives history of the sport not included in many other table tennis books.

Great resource for beginners and intermediate players
Richard McAfee's new instructional guide, Table Tennis Steps to Success provides straightforward advice for beginning and intermediate players and their coaches. Coach McAfee covers basic technique and strategy, and provides detailed drills. Each stroke is illustrated with photos and diagrams that highlight correct technique. Common technique mistakes and corrections for each are highlighted. Each new stroke introduction is followed by a drill that helps the player use it in a game situation.A key feature of the book is that each drill includes scoring criteria that help the player track their progress and find their own relative strengths and weaknesses.

The chapter titled Using the Five-Ball Training System presents a well-rounded set of drills designed to mirror common game situations. Each drill includes a diagram, and points out key elements for success at the drill. Any player below the 2000 level who is armed with a table, a practice partner, willingness to work and a desire to improve can use this section of the book to become a better player.

Along with the instructional material, McAfee includes some information that other books have left out: a concise history of the sport, a section on unwritten rules and etiquette, basic stretching instruction and injury treatment. Coach McAfee also describes common styles of play, including the traditional strengths and weaknesses of each. A section on serve tactics includes suggestions on which serves to use against each style. The book concludes with an excellent section on how to get the most out of tournament play. ... Read more