I'm thinking about buying this training tool, your opinion ?

[atatu]

I need a break from the weights, so I'm thinking about investing in some of these rings, what do you think: http://www.ringtraining.com

Interestingly, the guy who developed these used to play some college tennis.

[vin]

Well, gymnasts are pretty big dudes! However, I bet they also lift in addition to all their practice.

It seems like the basis of this product is supporting and/or pulling your body weight with your arms. What about your lower body?

Unless I'm missing something, I don't think these things can be a complete replacement for weightlifting. Maybe you'd be better off just taking 2-4 weeks off from the weights and maybe switching to some new exercises when you start up again. Make sure you do start up again because you'll regret it if you wait too long and lose all your strength. You'll also probably be frustrated by the time it will take to get it back.

[Marius_Hancu]

Originally Posted by vin

Well, gymnasts are pretty big dudes! However, I bet they also lift in addition to all their practice.

It seems like the basis of this product is supporting and/or pulling your body weight with your arms. What about your lower body?

Unless I'm missing something, I don't think these things can be a complete replacement for weightlifting. Maybe you'd be better off just taking 2-4 weeks off from the weights and maybe switching to some new exercises when you start up again. Make sure you do start up again because you'll regret it if you wait too long and lose all your strength. You'll also probably be frustrated by the time it will take to get it back.

Vin, I think you're right, this is not a replacement for weightlifting. You must be in great shape to use them. But if the original poster can, why not, any device that can promote fun and challenge is advised. But one should be careful with the rings, one needs strong shoulders, pecs and upper arms, plus flexibility.

If the original poster can take some classes in gymnastics, that would be great too. All the secondary sports promoting power and flexibility (like karate) are a very good complement to tennis and should be performed say during winter season, or when one gets tired with tennis (happens to everyone).

[Kobble]

I think the rings are a great idea. If I had a place to hang them from I would buy them myself. The great thing about the rings is that they are very easy on the joints, because they allow for a natural range of motion. Let us know if you ever achieve a planche.

[atatu]

Thanks for the feedback, I'm getting them as an alternative to the weights, but I'm still going to be using the weights, as suggested. I'm going to start pretty slow, using them for pull ups and body rows, then move into some ab work. Right now I don't have any way to do pull up or dips. Thanks again.

[precision response]

Originally Posted by Kobble

I think the rings are a great idea. If I had a place to hang them from I would buy them myself. The great thing about the rings is that they are very easy on the joints, because they allow for a natural range of motion. Let us know if you ever achieve a planche.

Very easy on the joints? I'm not so sure about that, mate! I know there is no physical pounding of the joints, but they are far from 'easy' on them.

Try taking a gymnastics class, going upside down, all the way around, on those rings, your joints and tendons will probably be begging for you to stop! (especially one of your most complex joints, your shoulder; which as you know is very important when it come to playing tennis!).

Good luck...

[Kobble]

Originally posted by Precision Response
Very easy on the joints? I'm not so sure about that, mate! I know there is no physical pounding of the joints, but they are far from 'easy' on them.

Try taking a gymnastics class, going upside down, all the way around, on those rings, your joints and tendons will probably be begging for you to stop! (especially one of your most complex joints, your shoulder; which as you know is very important when it come to playing tennis!).

I guess it is my fault for not explaining myself more thoroughly. I had the more basic movements(Pull-ups, dips etc.) in mind when I wrote that, and not movements that require extreme range of motion and tension on the shoulder muscles. Without question, you are definitely putting your body at risk when performing more advanced exercises(Planches, iron cross, and many others.).

[perfmode]

I can't use that with my shoulder. I have a loose rotator cuff and a lot of torque will make my shoulder pop out of the socket regardless of my strength. Just be very very careful. That's all I can say.