Whether you’re brand new to tennis or a seasoned player looking to refine your skills, there’s one reliable practice partner that never misses a beat—the tennis ball machine. Available at all Elite Sports Clubs locations, the ball machine is an underutilized but incredibly effective tool for players of all levels. Here are 5 reasons why you should use the tennis ball machine to practice your game.
1. Practice on Your Own Time
One of the biggest benefits of using the ball machine is convenience. No need to coordinate schedules with a hitting partner. Just reserve a court with the ball machine and start practicing at your own pace, on your own terms. It can also be a great warmup right before a match or tournament.
2. Consistency and Repetition
Unlike a human opponent, the ball machine delivers a consistent feed every time. This is especially helpful when working on specific strokes or mechanics, such as:
- Groundstrokes from the baseline
- Volleys at the net
- Overheads and lobs
- Footwork drills
By focusing on one type of shot and repeating it over and over, you build muscle memory and confidence in your technique.
3. Control the Settings, Control the Game
Most modern tennis ball machines allow you to control:
- Speed
- Spin (topspin or backspin)
- Feed rate
- Ball direction and oscillation
This means you can simulate real-game scenarios or focus on particular weaknesses. Want to work on your reaction time? Increase the speed. Need help with high bouncing shots? Add topspin.
4. Improve Fitness While Hitting
Using the ball machine isn’t just about hitting balls—it can double as a great cardio workout! Program it to feed alternating forehands and backhands, and you’ll be running side to side, improving both your agility and endurance.
5. A Great Supplement to Lessons
The tennis ball machine is not a replacement for private or group lessons, but it’s a fantastic supplement. You can use it to reinforce what you’ve learned during your lessons, giving you the chance to work independently between sessions.
How to Use the Tennis Ball Machine
Not sure how to set it up or control it? We’ve created this handy tutorial video!
Ready to Try the Tennis Ball Machine?
All Elite Sports Clubs locations offer access to a tennis ball machine. It’s easy to book using the Elite Member App. It’s a great way to get more from your membership and take your game to the next level!
Whether you’re prepping for league play or just want a fun way to stay active, the tennis ball machine is your ultimate practice partner.
Looking for more playing time? Click the button below to learn more about our tennis programming.
Get more involved with Tennis!