WELCOME to MARTIN FIELD

I have found through years of teaching that the biggest obstacle in learning new things is fear.
Fear is such a hidden part of our lives, that it can even mask itself as anger. Most times we cannot measure how much it keeps us back, and destroys enjoyment. Good players sense excessive fear in their opponents and know when to move in to finish them off. Although a small measure of fear is necessary for good performance, excessive fear can be destructive. Even recreational players encounter different types of fears. Too much fear destroys all fun, and stops a beginners progress altogether. It is necessary to decide for yourself if your fears are problematic, and be prepared to deal with them. The most common fears for beginners and restarts are:
Fear of missing the ball
This fear is the biggest and causes the most troublesome consequences. When BEGINNERS are afraid of missing the ball, they immediately get as close to the ball as possible. Being too close to the ball produces some of the most horrendous technical problems which are very difficult to erase. Do not be afraid of missing the ball, missing the ball is a normal when most BEGINNERS are really trying to acquire correct technical form, especially at ‘audition stage’.
Fear of looking out of place
This of course happens for many reasons. A lot of these uncomfortable feelings can be greatly reduced by discussing them with an understanding coach or friend. Even as a national representative, I have often felt the same way at practice, or in tournament atmosphere.
Hitting the ball over the fence
This must happen during the process of learning, and when are developing power. Even the best players sometimes hit balls over the fence. Use of two handed strokes, soft balls, and tight strings, greatly improves control, and as a result, few balls go over the fence.
Fear of failure
Fear of failure is one that follows us, if left unchecked, all through our tennis life to advance level. This fear usually has its roots in the overcrowded coaching sessions at schools and badly organized tennis camps. Tennis has never been given priority in most schools, and since tennis requires a high level of initial skill, overcrowding and poor coaching can be a recipe for disaster at beginner level. These sessions often become breeding grounds for fears of failure. I know this because many RESTARTERS have said this to me. Try tennis again with a competent coach, two lessons per week, and 7 learners or less on the court. You will find it easier, and far more enjoyable to learn, this time. Get my Book…FEARLESS TENNIS…for more info.