Welcome Coach Jordan Collins to the Fit4Tennis Family

As tennis players, we all know that staying injury-free isn’t just about luck—it’s about understanding how our bodies move and preparing them properly. Nothing frustrates me more than seeing dedicated players sidelined due to preventable injuries. That’s why I’m excited to welcome a true expert in biomechanics and injury prevention, Coach Jordan Collins, to our Fit4Tennis coaching team.

Meet Coach Jordan Collins

Jordan oversees both the Sports Science Division and the Youth Athlete Performance Division at the highly respected DBC Fitness in Miami, Florida. With over 20 years in the fitness industry, he holds a Masters of Biomechanics from Auburn University, where he competed as a track sprinter and football wide receiver.

Throughout his impressive career, Jordan has trained everyone from youth athletes just beginning their sports journey to seasoned professional athletes at the highest level. He’s previously owned his own training facility, served as a fitness director at a prestigious country club, and currently specializes in data management, speed development, and injury reduction at DBC Fitness.

Why Injury Prevention Matters to Your Tennis

Jordan often emphasizes something I completely agree with:

“The best tennis players aren’t just the most skilled—they’re the ones who stay healthy enough to consistently compete. Injury prevention isn't about a single magical exercise or shortcut. It’s a complete, system-wide approach.”

I brought Jordan onto our team because I believe deeply in giving you the best resources possible. With his clear guidance, you'll understand exactly how your movements affect your body and how small changes can help you move better, avoid injury, and enjoy tennis consistently for life.

Get Started with Jordan’s Injury Prevention Series

In his first series, Jordan Collins Injury Prevention Series, Jordan clearly explains how to:

• Understand biomechanics: Learn why certain movements protect your body while others increase injury risk.

• Follow structured warm-ups and cool-downs: Get clear, tennis-specific routines to prepare your body effectively and recover quickly.

• Train smarter, not just harder: Jordan provides clear guidelines for exactly what exercises you should do on and off the court to stay healthy and strong.

More to Come from Coach Jordan

This is just the beginning. We’re already developing more tennis-specific training series with Jordan, clearly designed to help you feel your best, perform consistently, and avoid unnecessary downtime from injuries.

I’m excited for you to experience Jordan’s expertise firsthand and see how it helps your game.

Check out Jordan’s Injury Prevention Series now.

Move Better. Feel Better. Play for Life.

—Andrew Mateljan
Fit4Tennis

Fit4Tennis x Exxentric – Strength & Performance Series Collection

Tennis-Specific Strength, Power, and Movement Training

The Fit4Tennis x Exxentric Strength & Performance Series is designed to help tennis players build the physical foundation needed for high-performance movement, shot stability, and injury prevention. Each workout in this ongoing collection focuses on strength, power, and stability using flywheel technology from Exxentric’s KBox and KPulley GO. These exercises mimic the demands of the game, helping players move explosively, generate more force in their shots, and sustain endurance through long matches.

This collection is structured to provide progressive, full-body development, with workouts targeting:

✔ Lower-body explosiveness

✔ Upper-body endurance

✔ Core control

✔ Rotational power

Whether you are looking to increase strength for better shot execution or prevent injuries through improved movement efficiency, this training system delivers results.

💡 No access to an Exxentric KBox or KPulley GO? Gym-based alternatives are provided so you can still complete the workouts without flywheel resistance.

👉 Interested in training with Exxentric equipment? Shop KBox & KPulley GO here.

🔗 Explore the full Strength & Performance Series here: Fit4Tennis x Exxentric Strength & Power Training

Included Workouts in This Collection:

1. Lower-Body Strength & Power (KBOX)

Purpose: Develop explosive lower-body power, knee stability, and endurance for fast movement and controlled shot execution.

Exercises Include:

• Front Squats

• Single-Arm Lunges

• Pull-Throughs

• Calf Raises

2. Upper Body & Core Control (KBOX)

Purpose: Build upper-body endurance, rotational control, and core stability to transfer power into strokes.

Exercises Include:

• Bent-Over Rows

• Seated Tricep Extensions

• Upright Rows

• Low-to-High Chops

3. Rotational Strength & Core Stability (KPULLEY GO)

Purpose: Strengthen the core and improve rotational power for stronger forehands, backhands, and serves.

Exercises Include:

• Lateral Chops

• Single-Arm Chest Press with Rotation

• Squat + Row

4. Upper Body Power & Shoulder Stability (KPULLEY GO)

Purpose: Improve shoulder endurance, upper-body pressing power, and coordination for consistent stroke execution.

Exercises Include:

• Single-Arm Chest Press

• Split-Stance Chops

• Standing Rows

5. Full-Body Tennis Power & Stability (KBOX + KPULLEY GO)

Purpose: Combine upper and lower-body strength training for total-body power, movement efficiency, and shot stability.

Exercises Include:

• Squat to Press

• Split-Stance Chops

• Bent-Over Single-Arm Rows

How This Series Helps Tennis Players:

✔ Increases explosive power for quicker reactions and faster movement
✔ Improves rotational strength to generate more controlled shot power
✔ Enhances core stability for better balance and efficiency on court
✔ Strengthens the shoulders to prevent injuries and sustain endurance in long matches
✔ Provides a structured system that allows for continuous progression

This collection is continuously updated with new workouts, ensuring that players and coaches always have access to tennis-specific strength and conditioning training.

Stay ahead of the game with Fit4Tennis x Exxentric and take your performance to the next level!

Train Like the Pros: The Duglas Method – High-Performance Tennis Training

As the founder of Fit4Tennis, I am always looking for ways to bring the best training methods and resources to players who want to elevate their fitness and movement. That’s why I am excited to introduce The Duglas Method, a high-performance tennis training series led by ATP/WTA performance coach Duglas Cordero.

Duglas has worked with some of the top-ranked players in the world, helping them develop explosive speed, strength, endurance, and movement efficiency to compete at the highest level. Now, his proven system is available inside the Fit4Tennis app, giving players at all levels access to the same training approach used by professionals.

Start Training Now: The Duglas Method – High-Performance Tennis Training

Who is Duglas Cordero?

Duglas Cordero is a world-class tennis fitness coach and sports therapist, specializing in strength, conditioning, injury prevention, and movement training for high-level athletes. He has worked with some of the biggest names in professional tennis, including:

• Dominic Thiem (ATP #3) – US Open Champion, Indian Wells & Barcelona Champion

• Fabio Fognini (ATP #9) – Monte Carlo Masters Champion

• Leylah Fernandez (WTA #21) – US Open Finalist

• Cristian Garin (ATP #17) – ATP 500 Champion

• Brandon Nakashima (ATP Next Gen Champion 2022)

• Francesca Schiavone (WTA #4) – French Open Champion

• Fernando Verdasco (ATP #7) – ATP Title Winner

With a background in sports science, rehabilitation, and elite-level training, Duglas has built a reputation for helping players move better, recover faster, and stay injury-free while competing at the highest level.

What is The Duglas Method?

The Duglas Method is a structured tennis-specific training program focused on explosive movement, agility, strength, and endurance. The training is designed to replicate match-like movement patterns, improve physical efficiency, and build resilience against injuries.

This four-part series includes:

1. Dynamic Warm-Up & Explosive Movement Training

• Focus: Full-body activation, mobility, and pre-match movement preparation.

• Why It Matters: Prepares the body for fast, controlled movement and reduces injury risk.

2. Explosive Speed & Reaction Training

• Focus: Sprint mechanics, resistance training, and reaction-based movement drills.

• Why It Matters: Helps players react faster, accelerate quicker, and recover efficiently.

3. Advanced Footwork & Agility Training

• Focus: Single-leg explosiveness, lateral movement, and defensive recovery drills.

• Why It Matters: Enhances on-court positioning, footwork efficiency, and quickness.

4. Full-Body Strength & Core Training

• Focus: Strength development, core engagement, and mobility work.

• Why It Matters: A strong core and balanced strength allow players to generate more power in their shots and move efficiently.

Why This Training Matters for You

Most players focus on technique and shot execution but neglect the physical side of the game. Strength, speed, agility, and endurance determine how well you position yourself, how fast you recover, and how consistently you perform under pressure.

The Duglas Method is designed to:

• Improve reaction time and movement efficiency.

• Increase stamina and endurance to stay strong in long matches.

• Strengthen the body to reduce fatigue and prevent injuries.

• Develop explosive first-step quickness for better court coverage.

If you have ever felt a step slow in a match, struggled to recover after long points, or lacked power in key moments, this training will help correct those weaknesses and optimize your movement.

Duglas’ Training Tips for Tennis Players

1. Never Skip Your Warm-Up
A dynamic warm-up activates the muscles, sharpens footwork, and prepares the body for intense movement. Skipping it can lead to slower starts, inefficient movement, and higher injury risk.

2. Train Multi-Directional Footwork
Tennis requires movement in every direction—forward, backward, lateral, and diagonal. If you only train straight-line sprinting, you are missing key movement patterns that translate to match play.

3. Develop Core Strength for Stability and Power
A strong core is essential for maintaining balance, generating power, and executing efficient recovery steps. Include rotational strength exercises to improve shot mechanics and endurance.

4. Improve Acceleration Through Resistance Training
Sprinting with resistance bands or sleds helps train explosive first-step quickness, giving you an edge in getting to wide balls and recovering into position efficiently.

5. Prioritize Mobility and Recovery Work
Strength and endurance are critical, but flexibility and mobility allow you to move more efficiently, stay injury-free, and maintain long-term performance.

How to Start Training with The Duglas Method

Get Instant Access: The Duglas Method – High-Performance Tennis Training

Inside the Fit4Tennis app, you’ll get:

• Four pro-level training sessions led by Duglas Cordero.

• Step-by-step workouts focused on strength, speed, and endurance.

• The exact training drills used by ATP & WTA professionals to optimize movement efficiency.

If you are serious about improving your movement, power, and recovery on the court, this is the training system you need.

Start training today with The Duglas Method and see the difference in your game.

Stop Wasting Steps – Improve Your Directional Control on Court

As a coach, one of the biggest movement inefficiencies I see in players at all levels is poor directional control. Whether you’re reacting to a drop shot, recovering to the middle, or changing direction after a big serve, your ability to stop efficiently, stay balanced, and transition smoothly can be the difference between getting to the next ball or being out of position.

I’ve worked with ATP & WTA professionals preparing for high-stakes matches, and one thing is clear—elite movement is not just about speed, it’s about control. That’s why I teamed up with Coach Richard Woodroof, who has trained top players like Shelby Rogers, Lauren Davis, Coco Gauff, and Kevin Anderson at RTP, to develop a Directional Control Program designed to help you move smarter and react faster on court.

Why Directional Control Matters in Tennis

Tennis is unpredictable. One second you’re sprinting forward for a short ball, and the next you’re scrambling wide for a defensive backhand. If you can’t stop, change direction, and recover quickly, you’re going to:

❌ Waste energy taking extra steps.
❌ Struggle to maintain balance when hitting under pressure.
❌ Increase your risk of injury, especially in your knees and ankles.

On the other hand, players with great directional control:

✔ Get to balls faster with fewer steps.
✔ Stay balanced so they can hit clean, controlled shots.
✔ Recover efficiently so they’re ready for the next ball.

This isn’t just about moving faster—it’s about moving better.

What You’ll Work on in This Program

1. Rapid Deceleration for Controlled Stops

Learning how to stop efficiently is just as important as learning how to sprint. I see too many players sliding too much, overstepping, or putting unnecessary strain on their joints when trying to stop and change direction. This program teaches:
✅ How to absorb force properly to avoid slipping or losing balance.
✅ How to stay low and engaged to transition to your next step.
✅ The right way to stop so your movement stays smooth and effortless.

2. Quick & Efficient Directional Changes

If you’re late on a shot, it’s often because you took too many steps to change direction. This program will help you:
✅ Improve reaction time with sharp pivots and lateral transitions.
✅ Train efficient directional changes (like 90° and 180° turns).
✅ Reduce ground contact time, meaning you’ll get to the ball faster.

3. Strength & Stability for Tennis-Specific Movement

Good movement starts with a strong foundation. Tennis requires explosive lateral movement, single-leg stability, and rotational power, all of which are covered in this program:
✅ Lower-body strength drills to keep you stable under pressure.
✅ Core engagement work so you can stop and change direction without losing balance.
✅ Drills to maintain form even in high-intensity match situations.

Equipment You’ll Need (With Substitutes)

This program is designed to be accessible for all players, whether you have full access to training equipment or just a court and a few tennis balls.

✔ Resistance Bands – Used to simulate match-play forces.
💡 Alternative: A sturdy elastic strap can provide similar resistance.

✔ Agility Ladder – Helps develop lateral movement, foot speed, and coordination.
💡 Alternative: Tape or chalk can be used to create a ladder pattern on court.

✔ Medicine Ball (2-8 lbs) – Essential for explosive power and strength drills.
💡 Tip: Start with 2-4 lbs if you’re new to medicine ball training, and work up to 6-8 lbs as you progress.

✔ Cones – Used to mark drill locations and movement checkpoints.
💡 Alternative: Small markers like water bottles or even tennis balls work just as well.

✔ Swiss Ball or Stability Cushion (Optional) – Great for balance and core stability work.

Training Tips for Maximum Results

✅ Always Warm Up First – Dynamic stretches, mobility work, and light movement drills will prepare your body for explosive changes of direction.
✅ Focus on Form, Not Just Speed – It’s better to move clean and controlled than to rush through the drills and develop bad habits.
✅ Start Slow, Then Build Up – Work on controlled movements before adding speed. Form always comes first.
✅ Film Yourself – Seeing your own movement on video can help you spot inefficiencies and fine-tune your technique.
✅ Recovery Matters – Tennis is demanding, so take care of your body with proper cool-downs, stretching, and mobility work.

This Training is a Game-Changer—Here’s Why

If you’ve ever felt late to the ball, off-balance on wide shots, or unable to recover quickly, this program will change that. Directional control is what allows the best players to move with precision, using fewer steps to get to the ball faster while staying in control.

🔗 Start Training Now: Fit4Tennis Directional Control Program

NEW: Return to the Court – Season 2, Day 4 is Now Live!

Want to see real match-prep movement training? Day 4 of Return to the Court: Season 2 is now live! Join ATP pro Karue Sell (#259 ATP) and Coach Andrew Mateljan as they train footwork, speed, and endurance ahead of the San Diego 100 Challenger.

🔗 Watch the full session here: Return to the Court: Season 2

How to Improve Reaction Speed & Endurance for Tennis
Watch the Full Training Series Here →

Struggling to react quickly to drop shots? Losing energy late in matches?

In Day 3 of Return to the Court: Season 2, Karue Sell trains with Coach Andrew Mateljan to sharpen reaction speed, footwork, and endurance. These drills simulate match conditions, helping players move faster and last longer on court.

Key Training Drills:

• Serve Repetitions – Build accuracy and consistency under pressure

• Side-to-Side Movement – Improve court coverage and recovery speed

• Reaction Training – Sharpen first-step explosiveness

• Endurance Challenge – Train stamina to sustain high-level play

How to Use This Training:

• Add serve reps & reaction drills to your warm-up

• Train footwork & movement patterns two to three times per week

• Complete a five-minute endurance test weekly to track progress

Try these drills and share your experience in the comments. What’s your biggest challenge on court?

Watch the Full Session Here →

Advanced Nutrition Strategies for Competitive Tennis Players

Excelling in competitive tennis requires more than physical training—it demands precise nutrition to fuel peak performance and recovery. As you progress to advanced levels, your matches intensify, making a well-structured diet essential. Here's a clear guide for intermediate and advanced players to optimize their nutrition.

Optimal Macronutrient Balance

Carbohydrates: The primary energy source for intense tennis play. Aim for 3–7 grams per kilogram of body weight daily, adjusting based on activity levels. Prioritize complex carbs like whole grains and legumes. Use quick-digesting options like bananas or sports drinks before and during matches.

Proteins: Key for muscle repair and growth. Consume 1.2–2.0 grams per kilogram of body weight daily from sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, or plant-based alternatives. Include a protein-rich meal or snack post-match to aid recovery.

Fats: Essential for long-term energy and hormonal health. Focus on healthy fats from nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish. Avoid heavy fat consumption close to match time as it digests slowly.

Nutrient Timing for Maximum Performance

• Pre-Game/Training: Eat a balanced meal 3–4 hours before playing. Combine complex carbs, moderate protein, and minimal fat to fuel your energy.

• During Play: Stay hydrated with water or electrolyte drinks. For matches over an hour, consume 30–60 grams of carbohydrates per hour to sustain energy.

• Post-Game Recovery: Within 30 minutes, consume a mix of carbs and protein to replenish glycogen and repair muscles. Options like smoothies or protein shakes work well.

Hydration Strategies

Hydration is critical, especially in long matches. Check urine color to ensure it's light straw-colored. Hydrate consistently throughout the day, not just during play.

Supplementation Tips

A food-first approach is best, but these supplements may help:

• Multivitamins: Fill nutritional gaps.

• Creatine: Boost explosive energy for sprints and quick movements.

• BCAAs: Aid muscle recovery during extended matches or tournaments.

Incorporate Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Support recovery by adding anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, tart cherries, and omega-3-rich fish to your diet.

Practical Nutrition Tips

• Meal Prep: Plan and prepare meals in advance to stay on track.

• Track Intake: Log food and hydration to identify patterns and areas for improvement.

• Work with an Expert: Collaborate with a sports nutritionist for a tailored approach to meet your unique needs.

Fit4Tennis: Nutrition & Training Plans for Tennis Players

Take your game to the next level with Fit4Tennis! Our personalized plans are designed to improve your fitness and nutrition for better on-court performance.

Our Plans:

• Standard Workout Plan: A personalized 4-week workout and nutrition guide for self-motivated players.

• Premium Plan with Coaching: Includes the Standard Plan plus weekly coaching and progress check-ins for added accountability.

Visit Fit4Tennis.com to explore our plans and transform your tennis performance today.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes or using supplements.

Why Warming Up Matters

Warming up before hitting the court is one of the most important steps in preparing for a match or practice. It’s more than just a routine—it’s a vital process that can enhance performance, prevent injuries, and sharpen focus. Here’s why every tennis player, from beginners to pros, should prioritize warming up:

1. Prevents Injuries

Tennis involves sudden starts, stops, and explosive movements. A proper warm-up increases blood flow to muscles, making them more elastic and less prone to strains or tears. Dynamic stretches and light cardio prepare your body for the intense physical demands of tennis.

Example: Performing dynamic stretches like leg swings or shoulder circles helps loosen key muscle groups, reducing the risk of injuries like pulled hamstrings or tennis elbow.

2. Improves Performance

Warming up primes your muscles and nervous system for peak performance. It enhances reaction time, coordination, and overall power output, which are crucial for quick sprints, sharp volleys, and powerful serves.

Example: A few minutes of light jogging or agility drills can boost footwork, helping you move swiftly and efficiently on the court.

3. Sharpens Mental Focus

Warming up isn’t just physical—it’s mental too. It allows players to mentally transition into “game mode,” building focus and confidence. Taking this time to visualize your strategy can give you a competitive edge.

Example: Practicing shadow swings or a short rally session helps connect your mind to your movements, setting a positive tone for your match.

4. Enhances Flexibility and Mobility

Dynamic movements during a warm-up session improve joint mobility and range of motion, which are essential for executing strokes with proper technique and fluidity.

Example: Incorporating exercises like walking lunges or torso rotations helps prepare your body for reaching those tough wide shots.

5. Builds Stamina Gradually

Jumping straight into intense play can leave you feeling fatigued early in a match. A gradual warm-up increases your heart rate and prepares your cardiovascular system for sustained activity.

Example: Start with a brisk walk or light jog, then progress to side shuffles or skipping to gradually elevate your heart rate.

Pro Tips for an Effective Tennis Warm-Up

1. Start with General Movements: Begin with 5-10 minutes of light cardio, such as jogging or jumping jacks.

2. Incorporate Dynamic Stretches: Focus on stretches that mimic tennis movements, like arm swings and leg kicks.

3. Practice Tennis-Specific Drills: Include short rallies, serves, or shadow swings to prepare for match situations.

4. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential during your warm-up to maintain energy and focus.

Putting It All Together

Warming up is more than a pre-game ritual—it’s a vital tool for every tennis player. By preventing injuries, enhancing performance, and sharpening your focus, a proper warm-up sets the foundation for success on the court.

Explore our Complete Warm-Up Collection for expert-guided routines tailored for tennis players: fit4tennis.com/programs/complete-warm-up-collection.

Take just 10-15 minutes before each match or practice to prepare your body and mind—it could be the game-changer you’ve been looking for!

Ace Your Game: Best Practices for Tennis Players to Kickstart 2025

The holiday season may have disrupted your routine, but now is the perfect time to refocus and get back on track. Starting the year strong is all about being consistent and setting clear goals. Here’s how you can prepare for a successful 2025 on the court:

1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals

Decide what you want to improve this year. Whether it’s your serve, agility, or match strategy, having specific and realistic goals will help you stay focused and motivated.

2. Follow a Consistent Training Plan

Create a balanced schedule that includes practice, fitness training, and rest days. Start slowly and build up your routine to avoid injury or burnout.

3. Work on Your Fitness

Fitness off the court is just as important as practice on it. Add strength training, stretching, and cardio to your weekly routine. This will help you play better and stay healthy.

4. Learn from Past Matches

Look back at your previous games to figure out what worked and what didn’t. Consider getting advice from a coach to make improvements and build on your strengths.

5. Build Mental Strength

Tennis is a mental game too. Practice staying calm and focused during matches by using techniques like visualization and positive thinking.

6. Check Your Equipment

Make sure your gear is in good condition. Get your racquet strung, and check that your shoes are comfortable and supportive. Having the right equipment can make a big difference.

7. Eat Well and Stay Hydrated

A balanced diet and proper hydration give your body the energy it needs for training and matches. Focus on eating healthy and drinking plenty of water.

8. Play Pre-Season Matches

Playing a few practice matches before the season starts can help you feel ready for competition. Use these games to test your skills and adjust your strategy.

9. Take Time to Rest

Rest is just as important as training. Make sure you get enough sleep and try recovery activities like yoga or massage to keep your body feeling good.

10. Connect with Other Players

Spending time with other tennis players can help you learn and stay motivated. Join clubs or groups to share advice, tips, and encouragement.

At Fit4Tennis, we want to help you start 2025 strong. Don’t wait for the New Year to begin—start improving today! Check out our Beginner's Guide to Tennis Fitness Program to build your fitness and confidence.