Here are some tips to get started on the court

It's clear that we need to work out several days a week to stay fit and active. But working out sounds too much like working -- and not like all that much fun to us. So how about "playing" instead? And playing the game of tennis is a perfect fit as we age.

Tennis is resurging in popularity among players of all ages and abilities. Among traditional sports, tennis is the only one showing consistent gains in participation in the past five years.

Why should you be joining these folks on the court? Well, the game is a great physical workout. But before you start playing, we suggest visiting a doctor for a check up to get the go-ahead to run around the court.

Tennis is an exceptional workout if you can rally (hit the ball back and forth) with a partner. If you learn the game's fundamentals, both in terms of the physical skills and strategy, we think you can enjoy playing for years -- with the right approach.

Tennis also can be a great strategic challenge that keeps your mind sharp -- once you have the fundamentals down. Once you figure out the stroke technique to achieve the objective, you'll understand why you want to learn to hit various shots.

We also now know that vigorous sports such as tennis help generate brain cells, strengthen connections between nerves and fight the mental decline that can come from aging. If you're concerned about the impact that playing tennis might have on your knees, hips or back, don't play on a concrete court.

As in golf, today's tennis equipment is high-tech. Racquets are larger, lighter and more powerful than in Bjorn Borg's heyday, making it possible to hit shots you used to dream about. Shoes are safer, more comfortable, and the clothing is colorful, varied and cooler than ever. And a can of tennis balls still cost about the same as it did 25 years ago. What other product can boast that kind of affordability?

Take our word for it: There are tennis players in their 70s and 80s who play regularly at our club in St. Petersburg, Fla., whom you don't want to challenge. They're smart, savvy and enthusiastic players. They play mostly doubles now, and why not? There is less court to cover for each player, the angles for shots are more intriguing and the sociability is terrific. And the stories they tell after the match are mostly true! So what are you waiting for?

COACHING TIPS

1. Learn how to warmup properly before play with stretching exercises to raise your body temperature. After play, be sure to cool down with five minutes of static stretching to reduce soreness and stiffness. This also will improve your overall flexibility.

2. Here's a tip to help you volley quickly and effortlessly so you don't spend most of your time chasing errant shots or picking up balls: Don't worry about hitting those down-the-line winners like the pros do -- at least in the beginning. Hit consistent middle shots, aiming 3 to 5 feet over the net, to your partner.

3. Start with the help of a teaching professional who is certified by the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) or the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR). Consider joining group clinics or lessons for the social contacts and to find future playing partners.

4. Choose a facility that fits your pocketbook, but consider softer clay or HarTru courts to go easier on your body.

5. Invest in a new racquet with an oversize head to enlarge the "sweet spot" for ball contact. Consistency will quickly improve. If power is your thing, the lighter and stiffer newer frames will help you hit harder with less effort.

Ron and Kathy Woods are the authors of "Playing Tennis After 50."