Kinematic and Muscle Activation Differences Between High-Performance and Intermediate Tennis Players During the...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Human Movement Analysis

Background:

• Understanding the biomechanical and neuromuscular differences between high-performance (HP) and intermediate (INT) tennis players is crucial for optimizing training and technique.
• The tennis forehand drive is a complex movement involving multiple body segments and muscle groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the kinematic and neuromuscular characteristics of the tennis forehand drive between HP and INT male players.
• To identify specific movement patterns and muscle activation strategies that differentiate skilled from less skilled players.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen male players (9 HP, 9 INT) performed cross-court forehands.
• Three-dimensional motion capture and surface electromyography (EMG) were used to record dominant upper limb and trunk movement.
• Statistical parametric mapping (SPM) was employed for kinematic and EMG data analysis.

Main Results:

• HP players demonstrated greater racket linear velocity and higher shoulder, elbow, and wrist linear velocities.
• While joint angles were similar, HP players exhibited higher hip, knee, and wrist angular velocities.
• HP players showed increased biceps brachii and triceps brachii activation during specific phases of the forward swing, with no significant differences in other tested muscles.

Conclusions:

• Superior tennis forehand performance is linked to enhanced segmental coordination and greater lower-limb and distal segment velocities.
• Performance enhancement is associated with localized increases in elbow muscle activation, rather than generalized upper-limb or trunk muscle recruitment.
• These findings offer insights into the biomechanical strategies employed by elite tennis players.