The Influence of Kinematics on Tennis Serve Speed: An In-Depth Analysis Using Xsens MVN Biomech Link Technology

Area of Science:

• Sports Biomechanics
• Kinetics and Kinematics
• Tennis Performance Analysis

Background:

• Inertial measurement systems (IMUs) offer a promising method for capturing complex tennis movements.
• Analyzing biomechanical moments and kinematic metrics during the tennis serve is crucial for understanding performance determinants.
• Previous research has explored serve technique, but detailed analysis linking specific joint movements to serve speed is ongoing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess key biomechanical moments and kinematic metrics during tennis serve phases.
• To analyze the influence of these biomechanical factors on serve speed in competitive male tennis players.
• To identify differences in joint angles and angular velocities between players with varying serve speeds.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen male competitive tennis players participated, wearing IMUs (accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers).
• Players performed a simulated serve game, and data was collected during 12 points.
• Players were categorized into two groups based on average serve speed (Group A: below average, Group B: above average).

Main Results:

• Group A (slower serves) showed lower back hip adduction, knee flexion, and greater leftward thoracic tilt at impact compared to Group B.
• Group A demonstrated significantly higher maximal angular velocities in the wrist and thorax.
• Group A exhibited a lower maximal angular velocity in the back hip compared to Group B.

Conclusions:

• Significant biomechanical differences exist between tennis players with different serve speeds.
• Faster serves are associated with specific joint angle configurations and higher angular velocities in the wrist and thorax.
• These findings provide valuable insights for coaches and players aiming to enhance tennis serve technique and efficiency.