Effects of Physiological Load on Kinematic Variables Related to Tennis Serve Performance

This study aimed to explore the effects of fatigue on the kinematic parameters and performance of the tennis serve, specifically speed and accuracy. Xsens inertial measurement units (IMUs) were used to obtain the kinematic parameters of the tennis serve. Seven professional tennis players participated in the study, performing multiple sets of serves along with tennis-specific fatigue-inducing drills. Key kinematic variables such as jump height, pelvis velocity, wrist height, wrist velocity, upper arm velocity, forearm velocity, and shoulder velocity were measured alongside serve speed and accuracy. Results indicated significant fatigue-induced alterations in several kinematic variables, notably jump height and wrist velocity, which affected the serve performance. Importantly, serve speed and accuracy declined in the final sets, correlating with increased heart rate and fatigue. These findings provide insights into the biomechanical effects of fatigue on the serve, with implications for training and performance optimization.