In our ‘Training with the Pros’ series, Arina Rodionova shares her training routines and her favourite methods of building endurance.
Australia, 26 April 2024 | Leigh Rogers
Arina Rodionova’s perseverance is paying off in 2024, with the Australian notching several impressive milestones.
The 34-year-old became the oldest woman to debut inside the world’s top 100 in singles in February. Then in April, she scored her first victory representing Australia in the Billie Jean King Cup competition.
The hard-working Rodionova provides an insight into her practice routines and offers valuable advice in our Train with the Pros series.
Do you have a favourite time of day to practice?
I’d say around 11am. It gives you enough time to sleep in and have a relaxing cup of coffee, then by the time you do your mobility and warm-up, it’s time to hit.
Do you have a favourite part of your game to work on?
I don’t love playing points in practice, I lose focus pretty quick for some reason. I like doing different drills and running side-to-side, which is basically what I do on court. I enjoy doing two-on-ones or one-on-ones. It can be a bit tough, but you can make it short and sharp.
What is the last favourite part of your game to work on?
Probably high balls, I don’t love working on those. They’re not my favourite shot and maybe that’s why.
A lot of top-ranked players say they prefer playing points in practice, why is that not the case for you?
It’s not really a competition when you’re playing points in practice. I prefer a lot of drills and repetition. Last year I played a lot of matches, so I didn’t need to play points outside of the tournaments. This year is looking a little bit different, but I just prefer to do drills. I play tournaments almost every week, so I don’t forget how to play points.
Can you recall the first opportunity you had to practice with a professional player?
My sister (Anastasia) was a pro player, and she is seven years older than me, so it was probably her. I became pro myself when I was 14, so it was a long time ago.
Having an older sister playing tennis must have been a huge advantage and inspiration for you?
Of course. It was nice to have family on tour. It was definitely helpful.
Do any particular practice sessions throughout your career stand out as the most memorable?
I enjoy when my practices are fun and there’s music playing. I like doing fun drills, rather than doing the same…
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