Take a swing at getting fit

COSTA MESA — To combat rising youth obesity rates, a local tennis club has partnered with the United States Professional Tennis Assn. to provide free lessons.

Hank Lloyd, operator of the Costa Mesa Tennis Club, will lead a free tennis clinic from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the club’s courts on Junipero Drive as a part of the USPTA’s 22nd annual Tennis Across America program “Tennis — for the health of it!”

“Tennis is a lifesport,” said Lloyd, who has been involved in various tennis operations and retail businesses for more than 35 years. “Seniors and juniors can all be on the same page. Everyone can come out and participate and get some activity.”

“Tennis — for the health of it!” is aimed at increasing the awareness of the health benefits of tennis, which in addition to a cardio workout, include improved hand-eye coordination and muscle strengthening, Lloyd said.

“Millions of Americans have already discovered that tennis is an enjoyable way of keeping fit with tremendous physical and psychological health benefits,” said Tim Heckler, chief executive officer of USPTA, in a prepared statement. “… We hope to show millions more that it can be fun for them, too, and that through USPTA professionals and tennis we can make a difference in the health of America.”

While a number of the free clinics will be hosted nationwide, the Costa Mesa clinic is the only one listed in Orange County, according to the USPTA website.

While the health benefits of playing tennis are stressed by the national program, Lloyd said that it’s also a very social sport.

“I think that the key is getting parents involved and seeing it as something they can do as a family,” Lloyd said. “How many activities can you do as a group with the grandparents, parents and kids? I think tennis brings everyone together.”

The club also offers group lessons for $70 for a six-week session and private lessons for $60 to $70 an hour, Lloyd said.

To attend the clinic, RSVP by calling the club at (714) 557-0211.