Characteristics of Physical Activity During Beginner–Level Group Tennis Lessons and the Effect Daily Activity

Abstract

Abstract Tennis is a popular leisure sport, and studies have indicated that playing tennis regularly provides many health benefits. We aimed to clarify the characteristics of physical activity during beginner– level group tennis lessons and daily physical activity of the participants. Physical activity was measured using an accelerometer sensor device for four weeks, including the 80–minute duration tennis lessons held twice a week. Valid data were categorized for tennis and non-tennis days. The mean physical activity intensity during the tennis lesson was 3.37 METs. The mean ratio of short-bout rest periods to the tennis lesson time in 90 and 120 seconds was 7% and 4%, respectively. Compared to the day of tennis lessons, the mean physical activity intensity and steps taken were significantly lower on days with no tennis (p < 0.0001 and, p < 0.0001, respectively). Tennis lessons provide continuous moderate– to– vigorous– intensity physical activity without continuous rest during the tennis lesson and raise the mean intensity of physical activity throughout the day. Tennis lessons enhance daily physical activity intensity, steps, and duration of vigorous –intensity physical activity.