Abstract
Theoretical tutorials and the scientific literature do not provide information on the proper use of the non-playing hand in table tennis. This study aimed to evaluate the course of the movement in the joints of the non-playing limb during a table tennis topspin forehand stroke (played after a backspin ball) and to determine the inter-individual movement variability. The study involved 12 male table tennis players (178.7 ± 5.5 cm, 70.0 ± 6.6 kg, 23 ± 3 y) at a competitive level. The participants performed one topspin forehand as a response to a backspin ball. Kinematics were measured using an Inertial Motion Unit–MR3 myoMuscle Master Edition system. Changes in the angles of the upper limb joints (with particular emphasis on the non-playing hand) during the forehand topspin were analyzed. A novel method of normalized function of variance was used to characterize areas of high/low variability of movement. Most of the movements in the joints of the non-playing limb were performed symmetrically to the playing one, especially in the hitting phase. A rapid change of direction characterizes these movements, just before or during the hitting phase, which may indicate a supportive, ‘driving’ character for these movements. High inter-individual variability for the duration of the entire movement cycle in both limbs was observed; higher in the non-playing limb. This perhaps indicates a greater degree of individualization on the non-playing side.
Highlights
IntroductionTechnique in table tennis refers to the motor activities related to hitting the ball with a racket in an appropriate way, which can be achieved through proper footwork
The degree of interinvariation in the course of the movement in both upper limbs was assessed using the dividual variation in the course of the movement in both upper limbs was assessed using normalized function of variation (NFV)
The purpose purpose of of this this study study was was to to evaluate evaluate the the movement pattern in in the the joints non-playing backspin) non-playing limb limb during during aa topspin topspin forehand forehand stroke stroke
Summary
Technique in table tennis refers to the motor activities related to hitting the ball with a racket in an appropriate way, which can be achieved through proper footwork. Most of these actions are hitting movements, from the group of ‘batting tasks’ [1], performed with the whole body, and using the principle of sequential movements, known as the proximal to distal sequences [2,3]. On the other hand, when the precision of the stroke is dominant, the player must reduce the force In this case, fewer body segments are involved in the movement and they act as a stabilizing unit. This can increase the risk of injury [6]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
