Grunt Smarter: Relax Your Body While Powering Your Shots | Mark Vines

In this unique episode of Insider’s Playbook, senior tennis legend and mental-performance coach Mark Vines returns to explore one of the most overlooked tools in the tennis arsenal: the grunt. Far from being just a noisy habit, Mark breaks down the science and psychology behind grunting — and how it can boost power, improve timing, and relax the body under pressure.

He shares the physiological benefits, the biomechanics involved, and his personal findings from studying players at tournaments. If you've ever wondered when and how to use a grunt (without sounding like a human leaf blower), this episode gives you practical cues, drills, and mindset shifts to make it part of your competitive game — without crossing the line into hindrance.

Contact Mark Vines:

Email: mevtennis@hotmail.com

Website: www.SeniorTennisTraining.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SETcamps

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkVines-SeniorTennisTraining

 Key Takeaways

·  Grunting is not just noise — It’s a physical cue that helps support the spine, release tension, and signal the body to relax and swing freely.

·  Exhaling adds power — Players who grunt consistently often hit the ball harder without trying harder.

·  Mistakes happen when you hold your breath — Mark’s field study showed players were 3x more likely to miss when silent.

·  You don’t need to be loud — Even a soft grunt or saying “yes” can trigger the same biomechanical benefits.

·  Practice it deliberately — Use it during training, and videotape yourself to ensure you’re exhaling on contact.

·  Don't drop it in matches — The pressure of competition can cause players to abandon good habits. Grunt anyway.

·  The serve is non-negotiable — Always exhale before and during the service motion for better rhythm and relaxation.

·  You have to own it — Don’t match your opponent’s energy. Make the grunt part of your routine, not theirs.

Chapters

01:19 – What's acceptable vs. annoying
01:37 – The science behind the grunt
03:00 – How grunting improves relaxation and timing
05:00 – The “Yes” alternative to the grunt
06:27 – When to start your breath and grunt
08:33 – Mark's 4-player experiment
11:00 – Why you lose your grunt during matches
13:38 – Practice like you play
16:08 – Which strokes benefit most from a grunt
17:37 – Sound cues from the pros
18:13 – Final takeaway