Types

• There are as many different types of tennis instruction, as there are racquets, from the minimal of self-absorption in instruction books and videos and tips garnered from playing friends, to one-on-one time with a high-charging pro at a local club. Most instructors--and players--fall somewhere in the middle.
  
  

Certifications

• U.S. Professional Tennis Association
  
  While there are many certification programs, the most widely recognized are administered through the U.S. Professional Tennis Association and the Professional Tennis Registry. Choosing a certified instructor assures both a level of tennis proficiency and consistency of standards with regard to tennis instruction.
  
  

Philosophy

• What you hope to get out of your tennis lessons depends on your philosophy toward the sport. No certification, however lofty, can take the place of good rapport with your instructor. Consider your goals, whether it is beginning instruction or game improvement, and choose an instructor with whom you fit well. For children, you should pay close attention to the positive reinforcement the instructor offers. Also, if you are choosing your instructor through a reputable school or club, they will have likely run a background check on their teachers. If not, that task is left to the parent.
  
  

Locations

• Instructors can work exclusively at the country club, on their own through private lessons or through area schools, clubs and church groups. If you're looking for group lessons, your local YMCA may contract with an area pro who can offer competent instruction at reasonable prices. Look also at tennis clubs offering group clinics and tennis introductions.
  
  

Finding One

• The simplest way to find a tennis instructor is a quick trip to the Internet or your local telephone directory. However, seek not only individual instruction, but also local tennis and athletic clubs. Visit the below website for general listings which you can narrow to your geographical area.
  
  

Pricing

• The prices tennis instructors charge can vary widely from affordable blocks of group lessons, sponsored by clubs and organizations, to private lessons of $100 or more. Shopping around for the instructor, time, duration and price that suits you is essential to assure a good tennis experience.
  
  

Considerations

• Having realistic expectations regarding what an instructor can and can't do for his client is important in the teacher-student relationship. Even the most highly qualified instructor can only bring about results to someone who is capable and determined. The student must come to his or her lesson prepared, both physically and mentally. In addition, children may benefit from instructors working in groups with local parks and recreations departments and local schools. Children are more likely to do well when they consider the activity fun. There really is no reason to pay a fortune for beginning lessons.