Best Tennis Coaching Books of 2026

The Inner Game of Tennis by W. Timothy Gallwey is a classic guide to mastering the mental side of peak performance. Gallwey's approach is based on the idea that every game has two parts: an outer game played against opponents and an inner game played within the mind of the player. This book provides practical techniques to help readers focus their minds, overcome nervousness, and distractions, and find the state of "relaxed concentration" that allows them to perform at their best. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, this book is an invaluable guide to mastering your inner game and achieving success on and off the court.

The 40th-anniversary edition of "Stretching" is the ultimate guide to improve posture and prevent injuries. With over 3¾ million copies sold worldwide, this book offers stretching routines specific to various groups, including sports enthusiasts, travelers, children, gardeners, and people in wheelchairs. The new section titled "Stretches for the Digital World" is a must-read for those using cell phones and computers. It provides tips for better posture and stretches to do in an office environment. Bob Anderson, the author, has taught millions of people his simple approach to stretching, making this book the most user-friendly on the subject. The book is a bible of the stretching gospel, and it's a must-have for anyone looking to stay fit and healthy.

"Winning Ugly: Mental Warfare in Tennis--Lessons from a Master" by Brad Gilbert is a classic combat manual for tennis players of all levels. Gilbert, a former Olympic medalist and ESPN analyst, shares his timeless tricks and tips to help players outthink and outplay their toughest opponents. The book includes a new introduction with tips drawn from the strategies of current stars such as Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Serena Williams. Gilbert's formula for a winning tennis game is priceless and can improve any player's game. Overall, "Winning Ugly" is a must-read for any tennis enthusiast looking to improve their skills on the court."

The Essential Tennis by Ian Westermann is an exceptional book that provides players and coaches with technique-based instruction for executing groundstrokes, volleys, and serves, as well as progressions, drills, and mindsets to incorporate into better play on the court. In his book, Westermann reveals how improving at tennis actually happens and how to easily implement these lessons. He illuminates strokes, movement, strategy, and mental toughness, all proven to be successful over 20 years with clients of all ages and skill levels. This book is a must-read for all tennis players looking to improve their game.

Complete Conditioning for Tennis by the United States Tennis Association is a comprehensive guide to improving shot power, speed, agility, and stamina on the court. This strength and conditioning resource includes exercises, drills, and programs that assess physical strengths and deficiencies, improve footwork and agility, increase speed and quickness, enhance stamina, increase flexibility, reduce recovery time, and prevent common injuries. With more than 200 on- and off-court drills and exercises, and access to 56 video clips, this book is an essential resource for players, coaches, and instructors. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone serious about the sport of tennis.

Eat Like a Champion by Jill Castle is a must-read resource for parents of young athletes aged eight through eighteen. The book offers tailored diets for training, competition, and off-season, providing practical meal and snack ideas that can help athletic youngsters eat to win. It also addresses unhealthy patterns and counterproductive supplements, sports drinks, and performance-enhancing substances. The book is an excellent guide for parents and coaches to help young athletes increase their energy, bolster their motivation, gain muscle mass, overcome fatigue, and improve their performance.

The Best Tennis of Your Life: 50 Mental Strategies for Fearless Performance is a comprehensive guide for players of all levels who want to master the mental game. Jeff Greenwald, a former tennis professional and sports psychology consultant, provides 50 specific tools to help players embrace nerves, maintain confidence, develop focus, access ideal intensity, and play with renewed passion and freedom. This book is an invaluable resource that can help players improve their game and achieve success on the court.

Successful Coaching by Rainer Martens is a comprehensive guide for coaches, both new and experienced. The fourth edition covers every aspect of coaching, from developing a coaching philosophy to managing relationships with athletes, parents, and the media. The book also includes the latest research on physical training, nutrition, and drug abuse. What sets Successful Coaching apart is the author's emphasis on building a foundation for decision-making and action. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their coaching skills.

366 Days of Tennis: A Tip a Day to Improve Your Game is a must-read for any tennis player looking to gain a competitive edge. Written by Rob Carver, a certified USPTA Elite Professional, this book provides daily tips to improve your mental game and turn losses into victories. With a degree in Psychology and over 100 videos on YouTube, Carver is a trusted authority in the tennis world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this book is an excellent resource to keep in your racket bag.

CATCHING-101: The Complete Guide for Baseball Catchers is a must-read for baseball catchers and coaches. Coach Xan Barksdale provides a comprehensive guide that covers every aspect of catching, including receiving, blocking, throwing, fielding bunts, plays at home plate, and more. The book also includes drills and proper mechanics to help catchers improve their skills. Coach Barksdale's experience coaching nationally ranked NCAA teams and playing at almost every level from Little League to professional baseball makes this book a valuable resource. Overall, this book is an excellent reference for catchers and coaches looking to improve their game.