The Best Rotator Cuff and Shoulder Exercises For Tennis Players

As a tennis player, your shoulders are an important asset in your sport. Regularly engaging in shoulder exercises designed specifically for athletes like you can help keep them strong and stable, so you remain at peak physical performance.

The rotator cuff muscle complex is made up of 4 muscles. They work together to provide stability to the shoulder and keep the joint in the best position. All 4 muscles are attached to the scapula (shoulder blade) and extend towards the humerus (upper arm) but each attach to a specific point on the humerus.

The importance of these muscles is highlighted by the fact they provide stability and protection for the joint. This group of muscles is small compared to larger, more powerful muscles like the chest or back. However, they play an important part in the tennis shot, especially the tennis serve and must be stretched and strengthened to avoid muscle tears and inflammation. Also, by only focusing on the larger, stronger muscles, you will not have a fully functioning shoulder joint, and this will affect the power and consistency of your shots.

Here is a simple exercise to try that will help improve your game!

Chest Band Pull Apart

Step 1: Grab the ends of the resistance band with both hands.

Step 2: Hold the band at chest level with your arms straight out in front of you.

Step 3: Spread your arms out to your sides pulling the band tighter.

Step 4: Bring your arms back into starting position.

Step 5: This completes one repetition.

The Fitness Well.com provides professionally designed programs to assist with shoulder strength and injury prevention. These programs are for all ages and abilities.