Nadal Prematch Ritual | AskThePro

This week’s question comes from a player at the Seaside Championships.  “Isn’t it great to see Nadal is back. He’s such a fierce competitor. My question is, why does Nadal employ a short burst routine as part of his initial match preparation?

It’s no surprise that Nadal, known for his fierce competitiveness, incorporates a scientific approach into his routine. He kicks off his pre-match preparation with a three-minute, dynamic warm-up, a vital component for combating fatigue, reducing stress, and boosting spirits. This routine can work wonders if you’re feeling drained before stepping onto the tennis court.

According to Margaret Rice, a neurosurgery professor at N.Y.U. Grossman School of Medicine, engaging in this brisk activity elevates your heart rate, improving oxygen delivery to both muscles and brain. This surge in energy can leave you feeling more alert, possibly attributed to the release of dopamine triggered by the movement.

Beyond the immediate energy boost, a recent 2022 study involving 25,000 British adults revealed that just three minutes of vigorous daily movement can lead to a decreased risk of mortality and cardiovascular disease.

This research recommends beginning your day with an invigorating warm-up to jumpstart your energy levels. However, it also underscores its versatility, making it suitable for a quick three-minute pick-me-up during any break. Activities like shadow tennis swings, golf swings, boxing, and basketball shots—all designed to engage your major muscle groups—are highly effective.

At the end of those three minutes, take a moment to assess your experience. Is your heart rate elevated? Are you breathing deeply? Do you feel more energized, and has your mood improved?

It’s fantastic to witness Nadal’s return, and we certainly hope he remains injury-free for a while yet.

Best of luck, Rob
Tennis Whisperer