I decided to start my off-season training block early this year. Consequently, I will feature books and media focusing on tennis training techniques and drills each Thursday between now and the end of December. A logical place to start is with Serena Williams, one of the greatest players of all time. I recently discovered her MasterClass tennis course, which was released in 2015.
This course is geared toward experienced players intent on improving their competitive level. It is not a substitute for beginning tennis lessons, and people new to the sport should definitely seek out on-court instruction. At the same time, the material in Serena’s MasterClass is relatable to players at all levels. It is one of those courses that people can revisit periodically for new insight. As a bonus, Serena’s blend of professional perspective and personal anecdotes makes it highly entertaining.
One of the things that sets Serena’s MasterClass apart from other online tennis instruction is the well-organized structure. The course covers a wide range of topics, including the fundamentals of various strokes. It also delves into more tactical material, such as controlling the court, training like a professional, and preparing for an important match. Each lesson is meticulously crafted, featuring Serena demonstrating the technique and sharing her thoughts on the best ways to compete at a high level.
Serena’s lessons are supplemented by personal stories and insights from her career. Her anecdotes provide a behind-the-scenes look at her journey to becoming a champion and offer valuable lessons on resilience, focus, and determination. Her love of tennis shines through in every lesson, motivating viewers to apply what they’ve learned and push for improvement.
MasterClass’s production quality is unparalleled. Slow-motion replays from various camera angles help viewers see the nuances of each technique. I also appreciated the frequent behind-the-scenes look at the set, including the video and sound recording equipment. The polished end product is the result of a substantial effort.
Serena Williams’ MasterClass is a good resource for tennis enthusiasts of all levels. Her clear and engaging teaching style and unparalleled personal stories make this course educational and deeply inspiring. Whether you’re just picking up a racquet or looking to fine-tune your skills, Serena’s MasterClass offers valuable lessons that can help you improve your game and mindset. It’s a rare opportunity to learn from one of the best, and well worth the investment.
Serena’s Tennis MasterClass and many other courses on various topics can be accessed at MasterClass.com. The course runs approximately two hours.
