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Muscle activation during the tennis volley
J W Chow1, L G Carlton, Y T Lim
1Department of Kinesiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana 61801, USA. J-chow1@uiuc.edu
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|June 23, 1999
Summary
Muscle activity in tennis volleys increases with ball speed. Wrist extensor muscles are more active than flexors, indicating a crucial role in grip strength and wrist control during the stroke.
Area of Science:
- Sports Biomechanics
- Human Movement Science
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Understanding muscle activation patterns is crucial for optimizing tennis performance and injury prevention.
- The tennis volley involves complex coordination of arm, shoulder, and postural muscles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate muscle function during tennis volleys under varied ball conditions.
- To analyze the electromyographic (EMG) activity of key stroking and postural muscles.
Main Methods:
- Seven skilled tennis players performed volleys under 18 conditions (forehand/backhand, varied height and speed).
- Surface EMG recorded muscle activity; force platforms and high-speed cameras identified critical stroke instants.
- Average EMG values were computed for distinct phases of the volley.
Main Results:
- Overall muscle activity escalated with increasing ball speed.
- Extensor carpi radialis showed greater activity than flexor carpi radialis in both forehand and backhand volleys.
- Forearm muscle EMG increased just before impact, suggesting delayed grip tightening.
Conclusions:
- Ball speed significantly influences muscle recruitment during tennis volleys.
- Wrist extension/abduction and grip strength are vital, as indicated by extensor carpi radialis dominance.
- Deltoid muscle activation was observed, but their specific roles require further investigation with shoulder joint muscle data.