Sports fans will be in heaven this week and next as two great sporting activities take centre stage - or should that be pitch or court? Wimbledon and the World Cup at the same time - sheer delight.

For now, let's focus on Wimbledon and tennis. According to world-renowned scientists from a variety of disciplines, there is no doubt that tennis is one of the best sports for you to play.

Its historic moniker has been the 'sport for a lifetime'.  But is this really true?  Here are some reasons why.

1. People who participate in tennis three hours per week (at moderately vigorous intensity) cut their risk of death in half from any cause, according to a leading physician who studied over 10,000 people over a period of 20 years.

2. Tennis players scored higher in vigour, optimism and self-esteem while scoring lower in depression, anger and tension than other athletes and non-athletes.

3. Since tennis requires alertness and tactical thinking, it may generate new connections between nerves in the brain and thus promote a lifetime of continuing development of the brain, reported scientists at the University of Illinois.

4. Tennis outperforms golf, inline skating and most other sports in developing positive personality characteristics, according to Dr. Jim Gavin, author of The Exercise Habit.

5. Competitive tennis burns more calories than aerobics, inline skating, or cycling, according to studies on caloric expenditures.

Is it any wonder scientists and physicians around the world view tennis as the most healthful activity in which you can participate?

There are certainly other sports which provide excellent health benefits and some which provide mental and emotional growth. But no sport other than tennis has ever been acclaimed from all disciplines as one that develops great benefits physically, mentally and emotionally.

Celtic Haven in Lydstep has two well-maintained all-weather tennis courts at the resort and Iân Morris, their fitness professional, has a Tennis Leader award, an LTA certificate in Tennis Coaching Level 1 & 2 and is a British Tennis Competition Organiser, so is well-qualified to teach and provide support as you perfect your game.

Iân commented: "Tennis is a sport for kids to learn early in life. And it's not too late for adults and seniors too! The human system can be trained and improved at any stage of life."

Here's the key... you must begin playing tennis now to get these benefits throughout your lifetime. And that brings us back to the beginning:  Tennis is truly the sport for a lifetime! It's been proven.

To enquire about tennis at Celtic Haven or ask about their Leisure Club memberships, call Iân on 01834 870000 or email [email protected]">[email protected]