Effects of neuromuscular function and split step on reaction speed in simulated tennis response

The purpose of this study was to examine whether split step (small hop before step) would be more beneficial than no-split condition in simulated tennis response situation. In addition, it was studied if movement time of the response is related to separately measured force production capabilities and reflex sensitivity of the players. Nine skilled male tennis players participated in this study. Subjects stood on a force plate and reacted to a light signal and moved to appointed direction as fast as possible. With split step the participants were 13.1% faster (P <0.05) than without split step from the start to the distal end of the so called close range movement continuum (2.70 m). This was mainly explained by 43.6% faster time (P <0.05) from the signal to the onset of force production. Greater vertical forces were observed with split step: 15.7% greater F(z) mean force (P <0.05), 60.0% greater F(z) peak force (P<0.01). In split step both mean (r= - 0.813, P <0.01) and peak (r=-0.765, P <0.05) vertical forces (Fz) correlated negatively with the time from the onset of the force production to the photocell. With split step higher EMGs were observed in muscles responsible for ankle joint movement indicating that different strategies were used. Due to the split step the players were able to start the movement faster which mostly explains the advantages over the no-split step condition. Split step condition may also benefit from stretch shortening type of muscle action.