Abstract des Autors

504 questionnaires provided information on health, family background, tennis history, and physical activity of super senior tennis players. The players averaged 67 years of age. Ninety-one percent completed college and 82 were involved in the professions or white-collar occupations. Almost all players were in good health. Most consumed one to three alcoholic drinks per day, ate a balanced diet, and 13 smoked. Thirty-one percent reported having had a serious illness at some time, and 18 played with an interfering disability. The players became more involved with tennis as they got older, and they now average playing 4 1/2 times a week. Ninety-four percent played tennis all year. Fifty-eight percent used a medium racket. The most common grip size was 4 5/8 in., and 8 were left handed. Overall, the super senior tennis player is from an upper middle class background, well educated, healthy, and successful, and uses tennis as a means of enjoying his preferred life-style. Tennis is played not only to stay healthy, but also to obtain more enjoyment and fulfillment from living. Verf.-Referat