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  • Pat Cash; The Secrets of an Ex-Professional Tennis Star

    Pat Cash Buccament Bay

    Pat Cash

    Pat Cash came to the tennis world's attention in the 1980s when he turned professional and won his first senior title in Melbourne. Cash established a reputation on tour as a hard-fighting serve-and-volleyer, he became the youngest player to play in a Davis Cup final winning and claiming the cup for Australia. The crowning moment of Cash's career came when he won Wimbledon in 1987. He has now opened a fabulous tennis academy in the Caribbean at Buccament Bay and also works as a TV commentator primarily for the BBC and CNN.

     


     
    Interview with an ex-professional tennis player

    Tell us about your academy at Buccament Bay, how it started, and where you'd like to see it going in the future?

    We got the academy up and running in 2011 with the Phase One courts, and it's been going well. We are lucky to have one of the greatest locations to relax, play sport and recharge. As the sports facilities including the remainder of the courts and complex are completed, Buccament Bay will be one of the world's best places to visit and learn to play tennis, and other sports and activities as well.


    What are the most important attributes that a tennis player needs?

    Tennis is a tough sport because you need so many things to play at a top level. Firstly you need to perfect all the technical areas of each shot; then there's the physical attributes of speed, agility and endurance topped with balance and timing. You need mental strength too: there's no clock to run out, so every point is important and it becomes a great mental battle.


    What do you feel are the best exercises for tennis?

    For the beginner, I think general hand/eye coordination. James Droy (the resident coach) and I have fun games for the younger kids, and tougher movement and agility exercises for the older kids and adults, but in the end you need a bit of everything.

     

    Pat Cash at Buccament Bay

    Pat Cash playing at Buccament Bay


    What are the most common pitfalls of an average player's game?

    Usually technique issues hold players back as most people have been taught poorly. Sometimes it's better not to have had any coaching at all than poor coaching as some habits are hard to break. An understanding of body movement will help, which James and I are happy to explain.


    During your tennis career, who did you find as the most challenging player to play against, and what aspect of their game made it difficult for you?

    I was lucky and unlucky to be playing in such an amazing era of tennis. The mid-80's to mid-90's were very special with so many different styles and personalities to combat. Players like Becker and Lendl had power, control and variety; Wilander Connors and others never seemed to miss; and McEnroe, Noah and Edberg were precision attackers. All were great players and very different.


    What do you find are the health benefits of playing tennis?

    It's a total body workout and great for your fitness. It is one of the toughest sports in the world at the top level.


    What top tips do you have for somebody who wants to instantly raise their game?

    I think it's important to understand the best area to contact the ball. If the ball is too far away, you lose control and balance; if it's too close, you can't swing correctly. Getting the correct place to contact the ball will enable you to hit through the ball better.


    How do you choose a suitable racket for, say, an intermediate player?

    Rackets are very personal but the main thing is to get a decent set of strings with a decent tension - that will make a huge difference.


    How fit does someone need to be to play tennis, and are you ever too old to give up?

    I had a chat with an 83 year old the other day who plays three times a week with his buddies. They have a great time and get all the joints moving and muscles working. As long as you can shuffle around, you should find someone to play with.


    Which tennis tournament is your favourite and why?

    I think all of the Grand Slams are very special and very different in many ways, but sometimes the smaller events are more fun, like the ATP event in Baastad, Sweden, or Delray Beach in Florida. Also I'm fortunate to play in the legends events these days, which are really relaxed and fun so I enjoy every event.

    What aspect of combining travel and tennis do you enjoy the most?

    Being an Aussie I have had to travel my whole life to get around the world. I hear many ex pro players don't like to travel anymore and I understand that, after 15 years of hotels, airports and tennis courts, travelling becomes far less appealing to some, but I can't stand still for very long. When I first travelled, there were no iPods, mobile phones or internet, so these things make travelling and waiting at airports kinda fun.

     

    For more information about the Pat Cash tennis academy, visit Buccament Bay

  • Phuket's Biggest Trail and Mountain Bike Competition

    Do you need a fitness goal to keep you focused, or love taking part in organised sporting events? Well then we have some news that might pique your interest.

  • Preparing for a Ski & Spa Holiday

    Skiing is a fantastically fun and exhilarating sport, and certainly doesn't require you to be an elite athlete to enjoy it. The tree-lined pistes, fresh mountain air and, above all, the thrill of skiing are among the reasons why it is so popular. It can be enjoyed with the family, as part of a group or even on a solo holiday. But for many, a ski holiday only comes once every so often and the last thing you want is to feel so achy and tired that you don't enjoy it or make the most out of it.

  • Recover from Sports Injuries: 5 Healing Holidays to Get You Back On Track

    The most important step for anyone dealing with sport related injuries or muscle strains and tears is recognising the warning signs from your body and knowing how best to respond to these stress signals. Ease yourself into the recovery process on a rejuvenating healing holiday where expert diagnosis and private consultations will guide you as you start your rehabilitation.

  • Shanti Maurice: My health & fitness holiday getaway

    Shanti Maurice; My health & fitness holiday getaway

    Located in the untouched south of Mauritius, set in a tranquil bay on a curving lagoon of white sand Shanti Maurice is the ideal holiday destination to rejuvenate mind, body and soul. With a choice of many other luxury resorts in Mauritius, I considered myself lucky to have found this gem of a place.

  • Should you Book a Fitness Retreat?

    Woman practicing yoga on holiday on the grass with the sea in the background

     

    From finding it challenging to pick the correct fitness activities for your health goals to wanting to up the ante on your workouts – there are many reasons to book a fitness retreat wherever you find yourself on the scale of regular fitness activity. With a huge array of options to choose from ranging from beginner to advanced, you’re bound to find the health and fitness holiday for you, your partner, your family or whoever you decide to take along with you on your adventures.

  • Single Holidays for Single Travellers

    Our Top 5 Solo Friendly Healthy Holidays

    There is often a stigma attached to travelling solo. People are afraid of appearing lonely and feeling unsafe and the issue of the single supplement can be off putting. But an estimated 15 million singles now live in Britain and many more people are choosing to bite the bullet and travel by themselves. Solo holidays are fast becoming a popular option because they allow for the exact type of experience desired. In 2009, as many as 5 million Brits took to the skies alone so they could enjoy holidays catering to their personal tastes and needs.

  • Single Parent Family Holidays

    Single Parent Family Holidays


    The added pressure of travelling solo can make going on holiday as a single parent seem daunting. No matter how much you want to have some quality time away and give your children a fun break, it can be hard to imagine ever escaping on a relaxing retreat. However, with our single parent family holidays, gone are the days of single parents shying away from holidaying with the kids.

    Much more than just a pool-side holiday, our hand-selected healthy holidays provide opportunities for the whole family to have fun and enjoy quality time together in health and wellness. With group fitness classes and activities there are plenty of options for single adults to meet like-minded holiday-makers whilst the kids discover a ready-made group of friends at the Kids Club. Head to the Caribbean on a family water sports holiday, satisfy your sense of adventure in Morocco on a family adventure & culture holiday or discover new surroundings on a family spa holiday in Italy.

    St Lucia: The BodyHoliday WellFit Families

    Family kayaking at The BodyHoliday

    Kayaking at The BodyHoliday


    Escape to St Lucia to The BodyHoliday on a luxury family activity holiday that promotes fitness and well-being, ideal for a healthy all-inclusive family fitness break. Get active together with an amazing range of water sports and activities, from sailing to dance and diving to abseiling, for an unforgettable all-inclusive family activity holiday. Wear yourselves out at parent vs. children competitions, including volleyball and beach-a-thons, before indulging yourselves at the wellness centre with specially designed mother and daughter beauty sessions. The perfect destination for a family friendly spa break, this healthy holiday in the Caribbean will see you all return home revitalised and closer than ever.

    More information: View The BodyHoliday WellFit Families

    Morocco: Paradis Plage

    Surf lesson at Paradis Plage

    Surf lesson at Paradis Plage


    You’ll be spoilt for choice on an affordable family holiday at the beach front destination of Paradis Plage in exotic Morocco. Boasting a whole host of beach side activities to entertain you all, the kids will love learning a new skill with organised surf lessons and canoeing. With a round-the-clock experienced babysitter service, single parents can take some time to focus on their health and fitness knowing their little ones are well looked after. A popular destination from our specialist singles holidays, single adults will have no problem meeting like-minded solo travellers with complimentary access to all group activities and fitness classes, ranging from yoga to belly dancing and beach mountain walks.

    More information: View Paradis Plage

    Thailand: Thanyapura

    Cycling at Thanyapura

    Cycling at Thanyapura


    Boost your family’s health and well-being on a family fitness holiday for the whole family at this sports holiday in Thailand. Your little ones will love the activities and adventures they discover at the kids Tree Club; from cooking classes, to arts and crafts, car racing and traditional Thai games. With babysitting services and a variety of sports training camps for the kids, enjoy some much needed adult relaxation with a group yoga class or indulgent treatments at the luxury spa, before making the most of quality family time with a family game of tennis or beach volleyball.

    More information: View Thanyapura

    Spain: Marbella Club

    Kids Club at Marbella Club 


    Going solo on holiday with the kids can be a breeze with the phenomenal kids programme at Marbella Club in Spain. Located just 30 minutes from Malaga airport, this exclusive resort is in a perfect position on the beach perfect for luxury family holiday. The Kids Club offers a great mix of sports and activities for all ages from face painting to cooking lessons! Whilst the kids are entertained, single parents can take advantage of unlimited access to the luxury spa and complimentary attendance to group fitness classes, including yoga and TRX workouts. 

    More information: View Marbella Club 

    Italy: Forte Village

    Beach buccament bay

    Ready for a snorkelling adventure at Forte Village


    Set on the beautiful Sardinian coastline this is a great activity break for a single parent family beach holiday. Be blown away by the kids club, with unbeatable activities including; go karting, football club Marvin's magic club. Meet like-minded adults with group fitness classes from yoga to Boxercise, before enjoying quality family time, making this activity holiday an ideal destination for a family sports holiday. Refuel together at a choice of restaurants; from stone baked pizzas to authentic Caribbean cuisine, there is no wriggle room for fussy eaters at this luxury family retreat.

    More information: View Forte Village

     

    Talk to one of our Travel Specialists on 0203 397 8891 or contact us here to discuss tailor-making your perfect single parent family holiday.

  • Tennis in Cyprus

    As a tennis enthusiast, I was delighted when I went on the Tennis Academy holiday at Aphrodite Hills in Cyprus. I really managed to develop and improve my technique with the help of professional coaching every day.

  • Tennis Tips and Trips to Get You Wimbledon Ready

    With Wimbledon fever underway, those inspired to dig out their dusty tennis rackets can now rediscover the racket-wielding sport, as we share our top tennis tips direct from the pros, helping you to unleash your inner-champ. Practice your new-found skills and gain the advantage on a specialist tennis holiday, whether training in Thailand at a dedicated sports retreat frequented by sporting stars, or acing your game whilst soaking up the Mediterranean sun. After working up a sweat, ward off tennis elbow through rejuvenating spa treatments, leaving your body ready to hit the courts again tomorrow. Game, set, match.

  • Tennis: Serve your way to a healthy lifestyle

    It is never too late to take up an exhilarating new hobby, so why not start with tennis? It's a beautiful game that the whole family can enjoy in all seasons and has numerous health benefits such as lowering the risk of heart disease. It also has rehabilitative qualities which give you the opportunity to lead a healthier and happier lifestyle. And who knows, once you have mastered the techniques and developed your own strategy, you can pass this knowledge onto your family. You may set in motion and be responsible for training the future Andy Murray or Laura Robson!

  • The Benefits of Indoor Cycling Workouts

    With the Tour de France inspiring many of us to get on our bike in far flung destination, Patricia Inácio, Fitness Supervisor at Epic Sana in Portugal, shares with us the benefits of indoor cycling workouts.

  • The Best Active Holidays for 50+ Travellers

    The Best Active Holidays for 50+ Travellers

     

    Some things never go bad - a fresh jar of honey, an aged wine, and - arguably the most important - our chance to have enriching and exciting experiences! With our signature selection offitness holidays there’s an active retreat tailored to you and your needs just waiting to be booked! You only live once, and there’s a world of invigorating and awe-inspiring places to see, people to meet and unique experiences to savour! Here are our top selections for the best active holidays for travellers over 50! 

  • The Best Active Holidays for Running

    The Best Active Holidays for Running

    Going on holiday is no excuse to leave your running shoes behind, with our active holidays offering a change of scenery and culture, whilst improving your health and fitness. Whether you’re an athlete, or just looking to keep up with your running routine, make the most of the opportunity to explore your beautiful surroundings by foot. From scenic coastline trails in Portugal to sprinting up mountain paths in St Lucia, we have tracked down stunning running trails from our fitness holidays in luxury destinations worldwide. So, take your pick, don’t forget to pack your trainers and run towards your dream running holiday.

  • The Best Active Holidays in Thailand

    The Best Active Holidays in Thailand

     

    With its vast array of dreamy landscapes, from lush mountain jungles to white sandy beaches; Thailand is the perfect destination to escape on an activity fuelled holiday. Home to some of Asia’s best health and fitness retreats, there are a multitude of programmes suitable for all sporting fanatics that will boost fitness and well-being on an active holiday. With a plethora of activities to choose from, such as cycling, tennis, yoga, Pilates and various water-sports, you’ll never be short of things to do. Take a peek at our best active holidays in Thailand and feel inspired to explore the beauty of this culturally rich country whilst boosting your health and fitness within the realms of luxury.

  • The Best Active Holidays in Thailand

    With its vast array of dreamy landscapes, from lush mountain jungles to white sandy beaches, Thailand is the perfect destination to escape on an activity fuelled holiday. Home to some of Asia's best health and fitness retreats, there are a multitude of programs suitable for all sporting fanatics that will boost fitness and well-being on an active holiday. With a plethora of activities to choose from, such as cycling, tennis, yoga, Pilates and various water-sports, you'll never be short of things to do. Take a peek at our best active holidays in Thailand and feel inspired to explore the beauty of this culturally rich country whilst boosting your health and fitness within the realms of luxury.

  • The Best European Fitness Retreats

    The Best European Fitness Retreats

     

    To find the best fitness holiday destination, you don’t have to travel halfway around the world. Whether you choose to improve your well-being in the picturesque mountain scenery of Italy or on the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean, uncover the finest fitness retreats in Europe for a short-haul body boost. Experience a personalised healthy holiday designed by wellness experts to meet your individual needs on a fitness retreat tailor-made to help you reach your goals.

  • The Best Exercise Holidays to Improve Posture & Reduce Pain

    Embrace the beneficial effects of the best exercise wellness holidays to help actively relieve tension, improve posture and reduce pain in your body. Most people who work at a regular desk job don’t realise the lasting, harmful strain this is putting on your joints, ligaments, and muscles due to the lack of physical activity. Give yourself a natural healing break from reality on a healing holiday to target your health problems and enhance your posture.

  • The Best Family Holidays in Asia

     

    Unwind and relax on a tropical family holiday that will allow everyone to make the most of the idyllic beaches, whether that be kayaking together in Thailand or shell-collecting in Bali, perfect for your youngsters to enjoy. You will all leave feeling fully rejuvenated, as bringing your children on holiday can still mean a relaxing exotic Asian getaway is within your grasp.

  • The Best Family Sports Holidays in Europe

    Photo of a family on holiday

     

    Ready for a family sports holiday that will create unforgettable memories? Look no further than Europe, where rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes come together to offer an unrivalled destination for sports enthusiasts of all ages. This extraordinary continent provides endless opportunities to unleash your inner athlete, from heart-pumping water sports to adrenaline-fuelled land activities. Our Family TimeTogether™ Holiday experts have tailored a European sports adventure exclusively for you, offering a luxury sporting paradise that will leave your family with memories to last a lifetime. Prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey through the best family sports holidays in Europe and create memorable experiences with your loved ones.

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