From Couch to Court: How to Start Tennis in Your 30s, 40s, or 50s
If you've ever thought, "I’d love to try tennis, but I don’t know where to start", think again.
At Jones Co. Tennis, we hear this all the time — and we’re here to bust that myth wide open. Whether you're in your 30s juggling work and kids, in your 40s trying to find time for yourself again, or in your 50s looking for something fresh and energising, tennis is one of the best ways to move, connect, and thrive. And the best part? It’s never too late to start.
🧠 Why Now Is the Perfect Time (According to Neuroscience)
Dr. Andrew Huberman, a Stanford neuroscientist, regularly shares how movement, especially when paired with novelty and challenge, activates brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine — which boost mood, motivation, and learning capacity.
In other words, trying something new like tennis is not just good for your body — it’s powerful for your brain.
“Deliberate movement in a social setting, especially when it’s enjoyable, enhances neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to adapt and grow,” says Huberman on his podcast Huberman Lab.
So while it may feel intimidating to step onto a court for the first time as an adult, your brain and body will thank you.
💪 Exercise That Doesn’t Feel Like a Chore
Let’s face it, the gym can be boring. Running can feel like a solo grind. But tennis? It’s dynamic, social, and fun.
Here’s what just 60 minutes on the court can do:
Boost cardiovascular health
Improve coordination and agility
Build strength and bone density
Release stress and sharpen your focus
Dr. Daniel Amen, a leading psychiatrist and brain health expert, even refers to racquet sports as a “top brain-boosting exercise” due to the combination of strategy, movement, and reaction time.
😅 Yes, Starting Something New Is Hard (But Worth It)
We get it. Starting something new can bring up all sorts of resistance, the truth is, everybody starts somewhere, and most adults in our programs are in the same boat. Our sessions are designed to be supportive, non-intimidating, and tailored to where you're at — whether you’ve never held a racquet or haven’t played since high school.
👫 Community Counts
One of the biggest surprises for many of our new players? The friendships.
Tennis offers natural moments to laugh, encourage, and connect — without the awkward small talk. You’ll meet people at a similar stage in life, all learning and improving together. It’s exercise with community — and that’s a game-changer for motivation and long-term consistency.
👋 I’m keen to try — How Do I Get Started?
Whether you're based in Wollongong, Shellharbour, or anywhere in the Illawarra, there’s a class nearby waiting for them.
👉 Head to our contact page and fill in your details and we will get back to you with the perfect class to start.
Let’s get them moving, smiling, and learning something new — one bounce at a time.