Research shows tennis has positive impact on mental health
The Tennis Foundation is delighted to support World Mental Health Day by highlighting the positive impact that tennis can have on people’s mental health. Research commissioned by Britain’s leading tennis charity the Tennis Foundation, and undertaken by ComRes, has shown that 91% of those surveyed said that tennis has had a positive impact on their self-confidence which demonstrates how much tennis can contribute towards mental health and wellbeing.
The research has also shown that 64% of people said they felt more confident since playing tennis and 60% said they felt happier since playing tennis. The research highlights and supports the Tennis Foundation’s belief that tennis can bring a range of physical, mental and social benefits and can be used as a vehicle to help individuals realise and achieve their personal potential through sport.
An anonymous participant who took part in the research said:
“I’m a lot calmer. It’s good for your mental health as well. You can just go out there and blast as many balls as you need. You have a massive sense of accomplishment at the end of each session.”
Further statistics highlighted that 63% of people who played tennis felt less isolated, showing that it was a great way of making new friends and socialising with others.
Gloria, a participant at a mental wellbeing project supported by the Tennis Foundation says:
“I’ve always loved watching tennis on TV but had never played. I’d never had the chance to play with all my difficulties but these sessions have been so helpful in giving me a positive outlook. Tennis is a great pick-me up and the session really sets me up for the rest of the day and the weekend. My coach calls me the Dancing Queen of the courts.”
Further statistics highlighted that 63% of people who played tennis felt less isolated, showing that it was a great way of making new friends and socialising with others.
The Tennis Foundation supports a range of tennis sessions for people with mental health problems with funding, coach education and general advice to venues and our customers. Tennis Foundation also work very closely with our partner the Lawn Tennis Association in raising awareness of mental health and how tennis can play its part in positive mental health. They are signed up to the Mental Health Charter and are engaged in MIND’s Get Set to Go programme nationally.
