Q. I am a university student in China.
Here are some questions about tennis from me and some of my friends, and I hope you can help answer them:
1. How can I improve my serve without using a tennis court? Here in China tennis courts are not very common and usually quite expensive.
2. Shall I practice tennis with my friends frequently? If yes, how often should I practice with them?
3. Is it necessary for smeone to be very tall or strong to be good at tennis?
A. The answer to your first inquiry is yes. Off-court rotator cuff conditioning to develop stability and flexibility (integrity) in the shoulder would prove beneficial. Upper back strength from rowing exercises would help as well. Work on developing strength, power and dynamic flexibility in the core and trunk. If you are not an advanced player you can learn and practice tossing biomechanics too.
Secondly; yes, do practice with your friends. Be careful not to over do it and strain your shoulder in the process. If you practice frequently, keep the practice sessions brief.
Lastly, being tall, strong, fast, athletic and competitive can be an asset; but tennis is a skill sport above all.
Best of luck with your improvement plans!