Balance Battle

This lively warm-up game gets kids moving while improving racket control, coordination, and focus. Players must balance a ball on their racket strings while moving around a designated area, all while trying to make others drop theirs. The activity adds friendly competition and keeps players engaged right from the start of practice.

Setup

• Each player has a racket and one tennis ball
• A designated play area (full court, half court, or just a service box depending on group size)

Rules & Objectives

• All players start by balancing a ball on their racket strings
• Players move around the court while keeping their ball balanced
• The objective is to make other players drop their ball—without physical contact or being overly aggressive
• If a player’s ball falls, they are out for that round
• The last player still balancing their ball is the winner

Repetition

• Play multiple rounds, each lasting until only one player remains
• Shrink the play area (e.g., just the service box) to increase difficulty
• Have players switch the racket between hands each round
• Add challenges like moving only on tiptoes or side-shuffling while balancing

Coaching Points

• Improves racket control and ball handling
• Builds balance, coordination, and focus
• Encourages spatial awareness and movement without collisions
• Provides a fun, competitive warm-up to energize kids

Drill Tutorial