The best tennis teacher I've ever met -- and certainly the best I was ever lucky enough to work with -- is Oliver Becaud, a French player and teacher who is in residence at the Esmeralda in St. Martin. Among the many things I learned, and continue to learn, from Oliver is the all-important concept of follow through.

Beginners in this sport often make the mistake of hitting the ball and then stopping. In addition to possibly leading to injuries such as tennis elbow, this robs the shot of all of its power. Real elegance on the tennis court comes from following through, or finishing the stroke. You should feel your racquet head lifting through the ball in the direction you're aiming. It feels great, and when it's done right, it gives you maximum power and control.

(Speaking of teachers, though you may be lucky enough to find a gem by accident, you can increase your odds by checking with one of the major professional organizations. I have had great luck with people who were trained by or registered with the United States Professional Tennis Registry (USPTR); they can be reached at 800-421-6289.)

Remember that warming up before you play will help avoid injury, get you mentally prepared and improve your performance on the court. Begin with a gentle jog to raise your pulse rate. Jog around the court up to five times to warm up the body. On the last lap or two, add side-skips and running backward. Make sure to stretch hamstrings, calves and quadriceps (front of legs). Stretch the quads by placing your left palm against a wall, bending your right knee and, gripping your right foot with your right hand, pressing your weight forward at the same time until you feel the stretch in your upper right thigh. Repeat with the other side. Stretch your arms and wrists by getting on all fours and placing your hands on the floor with your fingers pointing toward your knees.