Join Chris on the latest episode of Prodigy Maker Show as he delves into the essential principles for nurturing young tennis talents and refining technique. From prioritizing footwork to navigating the evolution of modern tennis, Chris shares invaluable insights to shape budding champions. In this episode, he covers crucial points including the importance of movement training, mastering topspin, and striking a balance between fun and technical instruction. Discover whether your player is a magician or mechanic, and gain valuable advice on avoiding burnout while safeguarding against injuries. With discussions on identifying talent, specializing early, and honing technique through quality repetitions, Chris offers a comprehensive guide to junior development. Plus, he addresses audience queries on topics ranging from the evolution of the two-handed backhand to mastering on-the-rise skills. On the show, he talks about the following: 1. Prioritize movement and footwork training. 2. Focus on topspin. 3. Make it fun but teach technique. 4. Determine if the kid is a magician or mechanic. 5. Don’t worry about burnout. 6. Worry about injuries. 7. Cross-training multiple sports is good but not required. 8. It’s okay to specialize early. 9. It’s possible to identify talent. 10. Quality repetitions unlock technique mastery. 11. Start with more conservative grips. 12. Encourage ATP type swings but don’t force it! 13. Modern tennis is aerial and should be taught and learned that way. 14. The one-handed backhand is dead—or almost dead. 15. Teach on-the-rise skills early. Don't miss out on this episode packed with actionable tips and expert advice to nurture the tennis stars of tomorrow. Vamos!

In Episode 74 of the Prodigy Maker Show, Chris delves into the intriguing world of modern tennis grips, focusing on the Western Forehand grip structure that has become synonymous with the success of players like Iga Swiatek, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. —The rise of Swiatek, the first number 1 with a Western grip. —The success of Djokovic and Nadal, with near-western grips. —Should the parameters for acceptable grip structures be expanded? —Is a Bevel 5 western grip workable in today’s modern game. —Is a Bevel 6 western trip too extreme? —Will the future of tennis be more extreme grips closer to Bevel 5? —Advantages of the western grip —Disadvantages of the western grip —Myths about the western grip —Advice for coaches and players regarding grips for the forehand Join Chris as he dissects the nuances of these gripping tales, offering insights into the world of professional tennis and the evolving strategies that shape the game. Whether you're a coach, player, or tennis enthusiast, this episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to stay ahead in the ever-changing landscape of tennis techniques. Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! Follow Chris at these websites and social media links: Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit

Chris discusses the secrets of Spanish tennis in this webinar. He conveys the practical elements of the Spanish method that parents, players, and coaches can use practically on the court to improve themselves or their players. Chris talks about the following topics: 1. Developing consistency 2. Building racquet head speed and weapons 3. Footwork and movement training the Spanish way 4. Teaching the suffering capacity Spanish players are famous for. 5. Physical conditioning the Spanish way 6. The importance of Defense in the Spanish system It's a riveting discussion and very helpful to all players, parents, and coaches.

In the latest episode of the Prodigy Maker Show, Chris dives deep into the fascinating world of Spanish tennis, with a focus on the rising star, Carlos Alcaraz. Discover the evolution of tennis academies in Spain, from those that have improved to those that have struggled to maintain their standards. Chris sheds light on the new academies you should be aware of and the ones that may raise concerns. Explore what makes Spanish tennis training truly special, including its unique strengths and the methodology's enduring weaknesses. Uncover the secrets behind the endless rote drilling in Spain and the hard work and determination that define this training philosophy. Chris also delves into the coaching greatness of Juan Carlos Ferrero and Antonio Cascales, arguably the best coaches currently in Spain. Learn about Carlos Alcaraz and what you can glean from his exceptional movement and positioning on the court. Is he the Sergi Bruguera of the modern era with enhanced transition and net skills? Join us as we discuss the future of Spanish tennis and what it holds for aspiring tennis players. Don't miss this insightful episode that offers a glimpse into the world of tennis in Spain and the lessons you can learn from the pros. Subscribe now and stay tuned for more from the Prodigy Maker Show!

Welcome to the Prodigy Maker Show Episode 71, where we dive deep into the world of Spanish Tennis and the extraordinary journey of Carlos Alcaraz. In this captivating interview with Chris Lewit, featured on NPR, we explore the secrets behind Spain's tennis success and the rise of this young sensation. Chris reveals the intriguing history of Spanish Tennis, shedding light on why this small country has dominated the tennis world. Discover the unique training methods that have shaped countless champions and find out how Alcaraz emerged as a star player, with his developmental team playing a crucial role. Join us as we explore whether Alcaraz's skills shine brighter on hard courts or clay courts. Chris also highlights the evolution of Spanish tennis development and shares insights into the changing landscape of tennis academies in Spain. Don't miss out on this comprehensive interview that unravels the captivating story of Carlos Alcaraz and offers valuable insights into the renowned Spanish Tennis phenomenon. It's time to say "Vamos!" and embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Spanish tennis excellence.

As a parent or coach, you want to help your kids or players perform their best at tournaments. While there are many factors that go into tournament success, there are some simple strategies that can make a big difference. Here are some tips to help your kids win more at tournaments: - Pre-match, peri-match, and post-match nutrition - Warming-up routines - Why you should never sleep close to the match time - How parents should be careful about stressing their kids - Three approaches to cheating - Changeover routines - Tennis strategy - Post-match recover techniques - Timing and planning for the next match - Importance of debriefing - Using a pool vs hot tub - Importance of shower Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit

On this episode of the Prodigy Maker Show, Chris discusses the positives and negatives of the one-handed backhand. He will also answer questions from the audience and talk about how fewer top pros are using a one-handed backhand in the top 100 WTA and ATP tours. Learn about the following topics on the show: - How many female players in the top 100 currently use a one-handed backhand. You may be shocked! - How many male players in the top 100 currently use a one-handed backhand. - Tsitsipas's weak one-hander versus Djokovic's strong two-hander - The primary advantages of the two-handed backhand over the one-hander - Important biomechanical and physiological differences between the one and two-handed backhands - Modern one-handed grip structure - The primary reasons that the one-hander is less and less effective on the pro tour - Myths about the advantages of the one-handed backhand Send any development or tennis questions directly to Chris at [email protected] to be answered on the upcoming show! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5-star reviews on Apple Podcasts! Vamos!

Chris talks tournament tennis and UTR, USTA and other systems. Chris discusses the seemingly omniscient UTR algorithm and the omnipresent UTR organization—and how they are like gods. And how players and parents can see UTR ratings like a religion. On the show Chris discusses the following topics: —Why the application of ratings and rankings can be deleterious for some players —The unhealthy obsession kids have with UTR and dangers of the current tournament scene —How parents are sabotaging their kids character and long-term tennis development by hyperfocusing on UTR —How parents can better manage the current tournament landscape —Ducking in tournaments —Withdrawals in tournaments —Chris talks about the flaws of USTA tournaments and tournament structure —How UTR rating has become a de facto tennis SAT score —The way Chris used to play tournaments and check his ranking back in the day —Chris’s SAT score! Curious? —The parallels between the rise of UTR and the rise of Pickleball —Why tennis will whoop Pickleball’s ass any day And much more! Chris is now training players in the paradise of Manchester, Vermont at his club full-time and year-round. He is also still coaching privately in the NYC area. Come train with him in Vermont at the academy or one-on-one in NY! Vamos! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit

Is It Healthy To Instagram My Tennis Kid? Prodigy Maker Show Episode 67 It’s a hot topic in the high performance junior tennis world: Is it healthy to Instagram your tennis kid? Chris wades into the debate. On the show he discusses the positives and negatives of featuring a child’s tennis on social platforms. Chris analyzes the following topics: —The different levels of social media sharing: Casual, Proud Parent, and Social Influencer —The risks associated with each level or sharing —Is it ethical to try and monetize your kid’s tennis? —What are some of the common ways parents can monetize the success of their tennis kid on socials? —The crazy world we live in where everything is filmed, photographed and put online —What would Toni Nadal say about Instagraming a kid’s tennis? —The safest way to share a kid’s tennis on socials with the least risk —Should your child be plugged into the social media posts or kept in the dark? —How this age of tech has spawned a new type of tennis influencer parent —Why we shouldn’t be quick to judge some parents for attempting to brand and monetize their kid This is the beginning of a larger discussion. Please send Chris your comments and questions about social media and tennis kids. Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! Please subscribe to the show! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

Chris answers many common questions from parents and coaches that he has received over the years about tournaments and tournament progressions and pathways. Feel free to send Chris any specific follow up questions because this is a big complex topic. On the show, Chris describes the different tournament options for prodigies and non prodigies throughout all the junior ages—from 5 years old to older teenager. Chris also discusses how many tournaments to play and the ideal amount of training hours per week for juniors. Chris discusses the following topics: —Why most prodigies don’t do group classes at young ages —Why most elite juniors bypass Red, Orange and Green training programs —The importance of developing world-class technique at a young age —The heavy-handed tournament and junior progression mandates by the USTA —The typical pathway (ranking and tournaments) for a Division 1 tennis players from a young age —The trends in junior age and ranking that almost always accurately predict whether a kid will play D3, D1, pro, or have a chance to win slams —The difference between being a prodigy best in your age division or a prodigy best in 3 age divisions above your age —How much do typical top 10 sectional juniors practice and how many tournaments do they play —How many tournament do top 100 national ranked players play and how much do they typically practice —The choice between the USTA national circuit and the ITF Junior World Tour. Which is better? —UTR, Little Mo, Junior Tennis Tour as options to bypass USTA U10 mandates —Skipping USTA tournaments under 10 completely. Good idea? —UTR—Important or not? —How Chris sees the junior pathways and measuring sticks to judge the future potential of players. There is no crystal ball but the trends are there to see! And much more Vamos! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prodigy-maker-tennis-show/

Chris discusses the evolution of grip changes at the pro and junior levels over the decades and drills down into the common pitfalls and positives and negatives of changing grips on all strokes. On the show, Chris covers the following topics: —Why grip changes can be bad and good —Why changing a grip can destroy a player—sometimes permanently —Why a coach or parent should be wary to make a grip change in a player who is sensitive, self-critical, or struggles emotionally —Why it’s riskier to change a grip in an older player —Why it’s riskier to change a grip in an advanced player —Why you should not change grips during or before important tournaments —How long it takes to perfect grip changes —Is there such a thing as the “correct” or perfect grip —Why American coaches see grips so differently than in Spain —The secret approach to grips in Spain that leads the country to more success in junior development —The best grip for the modern forehand —The forehand grip that Chris aka ways changes —The best grip structures for the modern two handed backhand —The acceptable parameters for the grip on the modern one handed backhand —Why nobody can agree on what a “continental” grip is —The acceptable serve grips —The best serve grip for spin —Why changing a grip is a lot like going in for surgery at the hospital —And more! Also, send any development or tennis questions directly to Chris at [email protected] to be answered on the upcoming show! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prodigy-maker-tennis-show/