Progressive decrease in leg-power performance during a fatiguing badminton field test

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Badminton demands explosive leg power for rapid movements.
• Understanding fatigue mechanisms is crucial for player performance and injury prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess changes in leg-power generation during simulated badminton competition using a field test (FT).
• To quantify the impact of fatigue on performance metrics in badminton players.

Main Methods:

• Fifteen male badminton players (1-2 years experience) performed five repetitions of a shuttle-run field test (FT).
• Peak mechanical power was measured via vertical jump tests to evaluate fatigue and performance.
• Physiological markers including blood lactate, perceived exertion, and heart rate were monitored.

Main Results:

• Significant decreases in distance covered and time taken were observed across FT repetitions.
• Peak mechanical power and the fatigue index showed significant declines.
• Increased blood lactate, rating of perceived exertion, and heart rate confirmed significant physiological fatigue.

Conclusions:

• Leg-power generation gradually decreases during simulated badminton competition.
• The badminton field test (FT) effectively indicates performance decrements and fatigue accumulation.
• Findings highlight the importance of managing leg power and fatigue in badminton training and competition.