New photos showing HyunA and Yong Jun-hyung as a couple fully immersed in tennis have recently surfaced. Broadcaster Jang Sung-kyu shared images on social media with the caption, “A tennis prodigy is born: Yong Jun-hyung and HyunA.” In the photos, the couple is seen posing with rackets at a local tennis meetup. HyunA’s striking new blonde look and Yong Jun-hyung’s noticeably healthier physique have both drawn significant public interest.
Following their marriage in October 2024, HyunA faced pregnancy rumors after appearing to have gained weight. In response, she committed to a fitness routine last year and reportedly lost 10 kg. It appears tennis has played a central role in her successful body transformation.
A Dual Focus on Cardio and Strength
Tennis is an exceptionally efficient sport for those seeking both weight loss and muscle development. Because players must move constantly across the court, it serves as a high-intensity cardiovascular workout, burning approximately 400 to 500 kcal per hour.
Beyond fat burning, the sport engages muscles throughout the entire body, including the arms, back, core, and thighs. The fundamental "ready position"—which requires pushing the hips back, bending the knees, and holding the racket at shoulder height—places substantial demand on the lower body. Regular play increases muscle mass, which in turn raises the basal metabolic rate (BMR). A higher BMR allows the body to expend more energy at rest, making it easier to maintain weight loss.
Risks for Overweight Players and Knee Health
While the benefits are clear, starting tennis without assessing one's physical condition can lead to injury. A research team at the University of California, San Francisco analyzed 415 individuals and found that regular participation in racket sports can accelerate knee degeneration in certain populations. The study concluded that individuals who are overweight or already suffer from knee osteoarthritis may need to limit high-impact activities like tennis or racquetball to protect their joints.
Preventing "Tennis Elbow" and Other Injuries
Even for those at a healthy weight, "tennis elbow" (lateral epicondylitis) remains a common concern. This condition involves inflammation or micro-tears in the tendons on the outside of the elbow. If left unaddressed, the pain can become chronic and interfere with basic daily tasks.
Experts advise that if elbow pain occurs during play, one should stop and rest immediately. Stretching both before and after exercise is essential to maintain tendon flexibility. If symptoms persist, a prompt medical evaluation is recommended to prevent long-term damage. For HyunA and Yong Jun-hyung, the sport serves as a powerful health tool, provided the proper precautions are taken to keep injuries at bay.
