Do you need a bag?

The other day, on opening the car boot outside the tennis centre, I was hit by a sudden gust of wind.

Such was the velocity, two extremely precious Marks & Spencer carrier bags took off and sped across the car park.

Now not too long ago, realising I would have to cough up 5p x 2, I would been off after them at high speed, leaping over cars or any other obstacle in the process. This time, however, I waved them good-bye, hoping they would find a good home somewhere down by Leith docks (that's where they were heading!)

On the tennis court, when one because less fleet of foot, there has to be an acceptance that you can't chase down balls as you did in your 20's

Have you ever watched skilled 'senior' players and wondered why they never do any running yet seem to get to every shot? Well here's the secret. Smart players move while the ball is on the other side of the net - they anticipate the return and get into position early.

As your mobility decreases, it is also essential that you shrink the court. This means playing more balls in mid court, hitting deep angles volleys, drop shots or anything else in your repertoire. But don't get stranded in 'no person's land' (very pc!) in doubles, leaving your partner scuttling around the baseline.

The one real problematic shot is the ball that lands at your feet. As a spotty teenager, you would let it bounce then charge after it to the back of the court. As elegant seniors, we don't want to do that - instead we should take the ball on the rise, as a short hop or half vollley.

The secret of this shot is to bend your knees and stay low throughtout the stroke (the sounds of the ball hitting the court followed by the racket contacting the ball should be almost simultaneous). This shot requires little effort - but a lot of practice!

So think variety, placement and accuracy - and save your feet for the late night dancin'!