The storyline in the first season of the Netflix docuseries ‘Break Point’ has finally advanced to the hallowed grounds of Wimbledon. Episode 6 includes a lot of footage of the splendent practice courts and sweeping panoramas of the facility. That takes up the airspace previously allocated to the training and warm-up spaces. Consequently, there are relatively few glimpses of professional tennis players performing off-court training in this episode.
In fact, there are only three new insights culled from this episode of the show. First up this week is a clip of Ajla Tomljanović performing high-leg kicks prior to an early-round match at Wimbledon. A dynamic warm-up is an essential part of tennis at the highest echelons as it helps prepare the body for the high-intensity demands of the sport.
In search of more information on this particular move Tomljanović is performing, I consulted the Bible of tennis training in the United States, ‘Complete Conditioning for Tennis.’ The variation that is described in that USTA resource is called the “Frankenstein Walk.” I feel like that name is to console players like myself who have considerably less range of motion than Tomljanović. It emphasizes that the stretch is more important than the height of the leg extension.
This high-kicking motion activates the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back, improving flexibility. ‘Complete Conditioning for Tennis’ recommends holding the arms out in front (like Frankenstein) and swinging a straight leg forward while attempting to touch the toes. The book advises returning the leg to the ground as soon as the stretch is felt.
Tomljanović’s variation is a lot more dynamic, as she is seen performing the move with three quick steps followed by a very high kick while alternating legs. Her leg extension brings her foot up to eye level… and she’s tall.
Complete Conditioning for Tennis (<- Sponsored Link)
Incorporating dynamic stretches into your tennis warm-up routine can enhance flexibility and mobility in key muscle groups crucial for peak performance. If you aren’t doing this dynamic action before playing, it might be time to kick it up a notch. Your body will thank you.
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