There have been some big changes at Ross Tennis Centre (RTC) over the last 12 months. Members now run the centre for the benefit of the whole community.

Over £30,000 has been invested from funds raised by members and local supporters. Ross Tennis Centre has two new courts, new management, a new coach and a beautifully refurbished pavilion. The Tennis Centre is a fabulous asset for the whole community, and there is a warm welcome for all regardless of age or ability.

Here are some reasons to get ready for the summer at Ross Tennis Centre: Tennis can be played as a sport or as a recreational activity with friends and family. Either way, playing tennis is a good sport to maintain your health, fitness, strength and agility. It has been calculated that an hour-long game of singles tennis burns around 600 calories. Tennis can be a great all-round workout, from boosting aerobic fitness to improving your balance.

RTC coach Steve Barnet can explain what tennis can do for your heart, legs, glutes and stamina. He can even give some easy exercises that don’t require a racquet or ball - but give the same benefits as regular play. Playing tennis is both an aerobic and anaerobic workout. Aerobic fitness is ideal for burning fat, improving your cardiovascular health, and maintaining high energy levels. Tennis increases oxygen intake while getting your heart rate up. Your brain will also benefit, tennis helps you deal with physical, mental, social and emotional challenges, which increases your capacity to deal with stress.

Tennis is a sport that is based on evaluating angles, geometry and physics to get the best result, which translates into better problem-solving off the court.

Ross Tennis Centre is a great place to meet people and find others to play with and non-members are always welcome. Anyone can book a court for £10 per hour and Steve can even lend a racquet and balls if you don’t have them.

Tennis can be played all year round at RTC at a very low cost. Ross Tennis Centre members range from aged five years to almost 75 years, and play in all weather.

For information on coaching, playing and joining, log on to the new Ross Tennis Centre website www.rosstenniscentre.org.See the full story in this week’s edition of the Ross Gazette, or subscribe to our online edition here