Arthur Wood: Importance of Mental and Physical Fitness in Tennis and Life.

Importance of Mental and Physical Fitness in Tennis and Life.

Recently in the news I've been hearing about NBA players having panic attacks and depression issues. Playing tennis is no different if anything since it is not a team sport except Davis and Fed Cup Mental Fitness is of highest priority. If  I let emotions take over and beat up on myself over errors I'm making. I will definitely lose focus and not have fun or success. You just have to have positive coping skills to get into a better frame of mind. Be mindful. and  try to stay in the moment and not think about the past or future while competing.  I admit mental and physical fitness are linked. It's important to have a balance between both in life.

Which league are you a member of?

Tennis New York 3.25, 3.5 on a good day

How long have you participated in your league?

Started in April 2012

How did you first learn about it?

I found it online.

How often do you play?

I try to play 2-3 times a week, sometimes more

What do you like most about the league?

I love the competition and rivalries that the league provides. You can play as little or as much as you want. I've played over 740 matches since April 2012.It gives me a sense of accomplishment because of my endurance.  Through the league I've gained my closest friends. It gives me an opportunity for positive social interaction.  I also like you can play people with different styles. You can even challenge yourself by competing with players slightly better.  This allows you to get better.  The league allows you to track your progress and legacy scores against different opponents.

Who are your favorite rivals in the league? Why?

My favorite rivals in the league are David Romero, Jeremy Lin and Greg Mc Donald. I have other rivals or should I call them nemesis because I struggle against them are extremely challenging for me.

Do you have any other interesting comments about your experiences with the league?

I actually have met and played a set against Steve Chagnon. I lost 7-5 but I know I can beat him now. lol. Next time you're in NY bring it. One of these days I plan to play more career matches than Steve.  One can dream.

How did you get started playing tennis?

As a kid I loved ping pong and it translated to tennis. I watched it on TV and adapted my game to what I observed and through players I admired like Borg, Andrea Jaeger just to name a few.

What level player are you? (NTRP rating)

Advanced 3.5

What do you love about tennis? 

Nowadays tennis is a proving ground for my self-confidence, mental and physical fitness. I've faced a lot of challenges in life. Being diagnosed with Bi Polar 2, and Borderline Personality have provided me with some setbacks in dealing with people and having fun in the game of tennis. I'm doing better now. I'm trying not to beat myself up on the court and try to enjoy every moment mindfully. Playing tennis like anything else in your life can be troublesome if you are struggling at a certain time. If I lose focus and let emotions take over I will definitely lose focus and not have fun.  I'm getting better at this.

Who are your favorite pro players? Why?

Francis Tiafoe. He gives his best effort at all times. He's young, fast and determined. I think he has a great upside ahead of him.