BFH Workout #8: Althea Gibson

BFH Workout #8: Althea Gibson

Althea Gibson, born on August 25, 1927, in Silver, South Carolina, was a pioneering African-American tennis player who broke racial barriers in the sport. Gibson made history in 1950 by becoming the first African American to compete in the United States National Championships (now the U.S. Open). In 1956, she achieved another milestone, winning the French Championships and Wimbledon, making her the first black player to win a Grand Slam title.

Known for her powerful game and athleticism, Gibson paved the way for future generations of black tennis players. Beyond tennis, she excelled in golf and became the first African-American woman to join the Ladies Professional Golf Association (L.P.G.A.).

Althea Gibson's legacy extends beyond her athletic achievements; she challenged racial segregation in tennis and left an indelible mark on the integration of the sport. She passed away on September 28, 2003, leaving a lasting impact on the world of tennis and sports.

The #1 with the Racquet Workout

11 Lateral Shuffles

11 Squats

11 Push Ups

11 Jumping Jacks

11 Lunges

11 Sit Ups

5 Rounds

Exercise List

Lateral Shuffles

Start with your feet shoulder-width apart. Shuffle laterally to one side by pushing off one leg to propel you horizontally across the ground. Go about two to three steps and shuffle back to the opposite side.

Squats

Start standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes turned slightly outward. Keep your arms in a neutral position and sit down as if there was a stool behind you. Keep your chest up and your eyes straight.

Push Ups

Start on the floor prone with your hands by your chest. Push your hands into the ground and push your body off the ground.

Keep your feet hip-width apart.

Jumping Jacks

Start with your feet hip-width apart and hands down by your side. Jump out and extend your hands over your head. Return to the starting position.

Lunges

Start standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes turned slightly outward. Step forward and drop your back leg to the ground. Ensure both legs are at a 90-degree angle when in the down position. Use your back leg to push your body up to the starting point. Repeat on the opposite leg.

Sit Ups

Start on your back with your knees bent. Place your hands by your ears and lift your torso off the ground. Keep your gaze on the ceiling and keep your chest up. Lower back to the starting point and repeat the exercise.