What to Bring to Your First Tennis Lesson

The ultimate guide to the essentials you’ll need for your first tennis lesson

March 11, 2022

Starting tennis lessons for the first time? Are you not sure what to pack before you head off to the court? We’ve got you covered. It can be overwhelming to think about all of the supplies you might need to purchase or bring with you before your first tennis lesson, but it doesn’t have to be so difficult. With the help of this guide, we’ll be covering a variety of types of items you should consider bringing with you on your first tennis lesson, including things like:

The clothing you’ll need
Equipment to bring to your first tennis lesson
Miscellaneous essential items to pack

Woman holding up tennis racket — It’s never too late to stay active and pick up a new hobby like tennis. Start off in style like this member of the Dona Jo tribe rocking the Dona Jo Shakira Skirt in Petit Rose. Image courtesy of Sunixoxo’s Instagram.

Get Fit in the Right Outfit

Tennis attire that’s perfect for your first tennis lesson

It’s important to look the part of a tennis player when you’re headed to the court for your first tennis lesson. First and foremost, you should feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, both physically and mentally. There’s something out there for everyone, whether you’re looking for an athletic outfit with more coverage, a certain pattern, or a specific style.

If tennis skirts are your jam, there’s a world of designs, cuts, and lengths out there for you. Browse the Dona Jo Skirt Line for some amazing patterns that will accessorize well with any sort of tennis equipment during your lessons. If you’re looking for something classic that will pair well with nearly anything, try the Dona Jo Jojo Skirt in Black and pair it with a bright top like the Dona Jo Ace Tank 2.0 in Magenta.

If you’re looking for either a pair of skirted leggings or just leggings that provide more coverage than the classic tennis skirt, the Dona Jo Skirted Leggings collection and capri and leggings collections are great places to start. For some more outfit inspiration with skirted leggings, check out this Dona Jo guide to wearing skirted leggings and outfit ideas.

As for the top you should wear to your first tennis lesson, your choice should be heavily dependent on weather conditions. If your first tennis lesson is in the spring or during other warmer months, then think about opting for a tank top or short sleeved shirt. If the weather is cooler or your lesson is on an overcast or windy day, consider adding layers to your outfit or wearing a long sleeved shirt. To get some ideas for tops to wear, check out the Dona Jo top collection. If you’re looking for even more ideas, explore this guide to workout tops and the outfits to pair them with.

Woman standing on pickle ball court, holding pickle ball racket — While pickleball and tennis are vastly different sports in the way they’re played, the athleticwear for each is almost completely the same. To get the look of the Dona Jo tribe member above, explore the Dona Jo Love Skirted Capri in Nectar. Image courtesy of Get.that.polish’s Instagram.

Equipment You’ll Need for Your First Tennis Lesson

The basic supplies you need in order to play the sport

Every tennis player needs a few essential items in order to learn and get better at the sport. Looking the part can be important, but having the tools you need to play tennis is vital for any person’s first tennis lesson.

To start off, the number one thing that you need in order to play tennis is a tennis racket. You should find one that fits your stature. They come in different head sizes, including standard, midplus, oversize, and super oversize, and as a general rule of thumb, the larger the racket, the greater the power. Keep in mind that the larger the racket, the more difficult it can be to maneuver the instrument. So, before you make a racket purchase you should consider the size, the amount of power you want behind your swing, and the flexibility you want out of your racket.

Equally as important but much less customizable is the tennis ball. While many instructors bring their own set of tennis balls, you should consider showing up for their first tennis lesson with a couple of tennis balls. Some great options for tennis balls are the Wilson set of three or the Penn Championship set.

One of the most essential items to consider before you head off for your first tennis lesson is your tennis shoes. While running shoes and sneakers will do, always make sure to use a pair that provides ample support for when you run up and down the court. They should be flexible enough to move with you while also firm enough to provide bridge support. Additionally, always make sure to replace your tennis shoes at least annually or more frequently depending on how often and how long you practice tennis in them.

Aside from clothing, always make sure to bring items like water bottles, sunglasses if your court’s in a sunny area, and a snack for either before or after you work out. Before you leave your home, stop and consider all the things you might need in order to be successful at your lesson.

Five women st — If you’re nervous about going to your first tennis lesson, bringing a friend or two – or five – is a great way to stay motivated as you workout and ease those first lesson jitters. Get the look of these Dona Jo tribe members above with the Dona Jo Shakira Skirt ECO in Cheetah. Image courtesy of Bonniedunayer’s Instagram.

Other Things to Bring Along For Your First Tennis Lesson

Miscellaneous items to consider bringing to the court

As one final suggestion for something you should absolutely bring to your first tennis lesson – always approach the court with an open and excited mindset. It can be daunting to start a new activity, and it can be difficult to find the motivation to stick with it if you go into your first lesson with a halfhearted attitude.

A great way to combat any anxiety or hesitancy you have towards going to your first lesson is by bringing a friend who’s also interested in starting tennis with you. This is a great way to stay motivated and work your hardest throughout the entire lesson.

Woman walking in front of store fronts — Nothing exudes confidence quite like a matching athleticwear set. To get the look above, shop the Dona Jo Active Leggings in Luna and the Adjustable Bra in Luna. Image courtesy of Therovelifeblog’s Instagram.

Making sure that you have everything you need before you go to your first tennis lesson is the ideal way to feel prepared and confident in yourself before you hit the court. Make a checklist of your supplies or keep a mental note of what you need before heading out. Ultimately, what you bring to the tennis court is up to your needs and what you feel most comfortable bringing along. Most importantly, be ready to work hard, sweat, and go into your first tennis lesson with a great attitude!