The COVID-19 global pandemic has forced people to find new ways to stay fit and active against a backdrop of social distancing and it appears that Brazilians have been flocking in their thousands to try their hand at beach tennis.

The Confederação Brasileira de Tênis – Brazil’s governing body for tennis – has reported a 50% increase in the number of people playing beach tennis in the last three months despite their country being in the midst of the pandemic.

CBT Beach tennis coordinator Jeferson Pinto said: “Even with the pandemic scenario, beach tennis in Brazil continues to rise, with more and more gyms being opened for the practice of sport in the 26 states of the country and also in the Federal District.

“And Beach Tennis is not only in cities on coastal areas, but it is also growing strongly in cities without a beach. Currently, we have more than 300,000 practitioners of the sport, who seek the sport precisely because it is safe to play in this period and for providing several health benefits.”

A recent article published on VivaBem by Thais Szego cited the following major health benefits of beach tennis:

Burning calories – It is estimated that in one hour of play the average person burns 600 calories on a beach tennis court. The explosive nature of the sport, as well as the fact that it is played on sand, mean it requires a huge effort to play.

Muscle strengthening – Beach tennis provides an all-round workout but with a particular emphasis on the leg muscles, due to the effort required to chase after the ball. Being played on sand means the player engages their core in order to stabilise the body during play.

Low impact on joints – A big benefit of the surface of the beach tennis court is that it helps to reduce the load on joints, such as ankles, knees and hips.

Concentration – Beach tennis can see rallies played at an electrifying pace and as such the athlete needs to keep focused all the time.

Improved agility and coordination – The game requires quick movements in addition to hand-eye coordination to connect the paddle with the ball.

Aerobic fitness – The difficulty in moving around the court as well as the explosive movements of the sport mean it’s a great way to stay fit.

Stress reduction – All physical activity helps to release endorphins, but the fact that beach tennis puts an emphasis on fun and socialisation mean it’s good for body and soul.

On top of the obvious health benefits, Jeferson Pinto explained that beach tennis is open to all, regardless of age, condition or previous experience.

"It is an easy sport to learn and play,” he said. “In the same court where athletes of eight, nine or 10 years are, we find players aged 70 years old. Often, the whole family is involved in the competitions.”

Click here to find out more about how you can get involved in beach tennis or email beach@itftennis.com.