Tell us at what age you started in the world of paddle tennis and how long have you been a professional player?
Well, my beginnings in paddle tennis were late, my sport was tennis until I had to decide whether to dedicate myself 100% to it or study. I decided to study and start practicing paddle tennis at 16 years, It was a difficult beginning until 18 years I managed to proclaim myself champion of Spain Junior. Since that moment I have dedicated myself to it professionally, always combining it with studies and work..
What were your motivations for getting into this magnificent sport??
My motivations were the need to practice some sport, I am not a sedentary person and it was the closest thing to tennis. I didn't need so much dedication in terms of time and I knew great friends who practiced it and motivated me to do it..
What benefits do you think practicing paddle tennis brings??
For people who do not dedicate themselves to it professionally, but as a hobby, It is a very healthy sport, does not require great physical condition, anyone can practice it, no matter your physical condition. Since children of 3 years to elderly people. I always advise having a minimum base of physical condition, given that, even though it is a soft sport, injuries may appear due to the body's lack of habit. Even so, after a few months of practice, anyone can play a game at a basic level..
Another benefit is the interaction with other people, being a sport that needs 4 people you are always interacting with people. It is a very social sport.
Should someone have any special conditions to dedicate themselves to this sport professionally??
If we talk about dedicating oneself professionally, It is a sport that requires very good physical condition., both endurance and strength, flexibility and speed. Although the majority of society thinks that it is a sport of “lazy”. Personally I think the most important thing is strength., especially in the lower body, There are many sudden turns and changes of direction and if you do not have a good muscle base, serious injuries can occur..
Do you combine paddle tennis with any other sport??
I currently do not practice any other sport.. I only combine it with physical preparation. Although if it comes to it I like most sports, tennis, soccer…
What injuries have you most commonly suffered due to playing paddle tennis??
The most recent was a sprained knee. It was as a result of a jump and bad support. That has been the most serious. Then there are the usual ones for padel players, many are on the shoulders, since it is the joint that works the most in the matches, fiber overloads and breaks.
What do you think about the physiotherapist's care for professional players??
They have a FUNDAMENTAL role. Without a physio, any professional player would not be able to last many years at a high level.. The body needs to rest and since it cannot stop training and competing, the physio is the one who makes it look like it is taking a break.. I have always said that high performance sports are not healthy, you end up with your body quite exhausted.
Do you take care of your diet in any special way to obtain better performance both in your daily practice and in competitions??
I don't have a defined diet, I just eat well and healthy. I avoid excesses but I don't deprive myself of anything. Everyone knows their body and knows what it is asking for at all times.. In tournaments it is true that I make it stricter, I eat more carbohydrates before playing and have a lighter dinner. I also usually drink a lot of water..
What recommendations would you make to those people who want to get into this sport??
As I said before, start with a small base of physical condition to avoid injuries.. ALWAYS warm up before training or playing a game, that awaken the body.
Be patient, it is a sport that is learned with perseverance and above all, it is a VERY FUN sport., very social and very happy.
I fell in love with it since I started practicing it..
Anabella Lara
Dietitian-Nutritionist. Col. Nº AND 00445
Consultation at Pablo Salazar Physiotherapy
@alaranutricion
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