Backhand Stroke Research Articles

An external focus of attention enhances table tennis backhand stroke accuracy in low-skilled players.

The aim of the study was to determine the impact of internal and external (proximal and distal) attentional focus on table tennis backhand stroke accuracy in low-skilled players. Fifty-one undergraduate physical education (PE) students were randomly assigned to 3 groups: Group G1 (IF) was instructed to focus on the hand holding the paddle, Group G2 (EFP) was instructed to focus on the ball, while Group G3 (EFD) was instructed to focus on targets marked on the tennis table. The experimental groups followed identical instructions except for the instruction about the focus of attention. Participants were asked to score as many points as possible by hitting the ball inside the three smallest targets marked on the tennis table. They were required to do so using a backhand stroke. The practice session consisted of 45 trials in three blocks of backhand (15 trials at each target). A special scoring system was used to determine the accuracy of the strokes. One of the most important findings from the current research was that groups with an external focus of attention revealed significant improvements in accuracy in the post-test, while the group with an internal focus of attention achieved low training effects. No significant difference was observed between G2 (EFP) and G3 (EFD) in the delayed retention test, which indicates that proximal and distal attentional focus had similar effects on table tennis backhand stroke accuracy in low-skilled players.

High-accuracy tennis players linearly adjust racket impact kinematics according to impact height during a two-handed backhand stroke

ABSTRACT We hypothesised that high-accuracy players more linearly coordinate racket kinematics with impact heights under random height conditions than low-accuracy players. We compared the adjustments of racket kinematics according to impact height between high- and low-accuracy players. Fourteen male tennis players hit the incoming balls with a two-handed backhand at different impact heights (21–108% of body height) to a target area. The cluster analysis on accuracy divided participants into high- (n = 7, 48.6 ± 2.4%) and low- (n = 7, 32.4 ± 4.8%) accuracy groups. Most of the high-accuracy players linearly decreased the horizontal velocity, increased the vertical velocity, and increased the face angle of racket (R 2 = 0.42, 0.36, 0.66) as impact heights increased, while the low-accuracy group only linearly increased face angle (R 2 = 0.46) but not linearly adjusted horizontal and vertical velocities (R 2 = 0.02, 0.14). The linearities between horizontal velocity and face angle and between vertical velocity and face angle in high-accuracy group (R 2 = 0.40, 0.26) were significantly stronger than those in low-accuracy group (R 2 = 0.07, 0.08). We found that the high-accuracy players coordinate more racket kinematics and adopt a set of consistent solutions of adjustment according to impact heights. We suggest that players linearly adjust the velocities and the face angles of rackets according to impact heights when prioritising the accuracy.

Upper Extremity Muscle Activation during Drive Volley and Groundstroke for Two-Handed Backhand of Female Tennis Players.

Drive volley is one of the essential backhand stroke technique trends seen in recent women's tennis competitions. Although movements of the drive volley and groundstroke are similar, activation of the internal muscles vary due to different incoming ball conditions. Most previous studies only focused on the groundstroke, however. The current study investigates the different muscle activation patterns in the upper extremity muscle during the two-handed backhand drive volley as well as the groundstroke for female tennis players. Ten elite female tennis players were measured in the muscle activation of the flexor carpi radialis (FCR), extensor carpi radialis (ECR), biceps brachii (BB), and triceps brachii (TB) from both upper extremities. Racket-head speed at impact, swing duration of each phase, and racket-head average velocity in both strokes were also recorded. Significant differences were found between the drive volley and groundstroke in the velocity profile of racket tip, swing duration of each phase (preparation, early follow-through, and late follow-through), activation patterns of upper extremity muscles, and flexor/ extensor ratios of wrist and elbow in both upper extremities. Different racket trajectory strategies were also observed between the two strokes, with greater horizontal racket velocity recorded in the groundstroke but greater vertical velocity in the drive volley. ECR and TB muscle activation during the drive volley preparation phase was greater than the groundstroke when completing a quicker backswing. In the early acceleration phase, the greater FCR leading arm activation in the drive volley assisted wrist stabilization in preparation for impact. In the late follow-through phase, less TB leading arm activity and higher ECR trailing arm activity in the drive volley showed more forward compression movement in racket contact with the ball. As it is essential for the drive volley to complete a quicker backswing and to increase shot efficiency at the end of the forward movement, coaches should consider the two strokes' muscle activation and technique differences to enhance specific techniques and fitness training programs.

Build a test to measure the skill of the forehand and slow backhand for table tennis players

The aim of the research is to design a test to measure the skill of the forehand and backhand slow backhand, and the researchers used the descriptive approach where they analyzed the content of the sources and standing on the tests of the basic skills in the game of table tennis. The proposed amendments were then conducted exploratory experiments, the aim of which was to identify the scientific transactions of this test of honesty, stability, objectivity and suitability to the research sample. It was applied to the Premier League clubs in the northern region, numbering (31) players. For the test in which the scientific transactions of validity, stability and objectivity are available, and the researchers recommended using this test to measure and evaluate the level of performance of the forehand and slow backhand stroke skill at high levels and for the category of applicants Through research and investigation about the nature of the tests in table tennis, the researchers found that the game lacks the existence of such a test, which confirmed the need to take a step in building this test. The researchers concluded: . has been reached - A test to measure the accuracy of the skill of the front and back slow stroke, in which the parameters of honesty, stability, objectivity and relevance are available, and it is suitable for use for high levels and for the category of applicants in the game of table tennis.

The effect of various skill exercises in learning and developing the accuracy of the forehand and backhand for young squash players

By noting the researchers as they specialize in the racket games. Young squash players have an insufficient performance of some essential skills, and the inability to choose the required skill in proportion to different playing situations. Therefore, the researchers determined to study this issue by relying on the use of a variety of skill training. It aims to provide various different responses (in force, speed, direction, and distance) to the forehand and backhand of squash players. The objectives of the research were to prepare a variety of exercises in learning the forehand and backhand for squash players. Identifying the impact of the diversity of exercises on learning and development Forehand and backhand stroke for young squash players. The researchers used the experimental method by designing (the two equal groups with a pre- and post-test) in order to suit the nature of the problem and achieve the objectives of the research. The research sample represented the entire research community, and they are the Iraqi youth squash players for the 2021 season, which number (12) players. The most important conclusions were that the effect of various exercises on learning had a positive impact on the development of the forehand and backhand for squash players.

Constructing a Gaming Model for Professional Tennis Players Using the C5.0 Algorithm

Professional tennis players have their own habits of tactics and play. However, players’ shortcomings can be corrected by constantly practicing professional techniques and by tactical analysis. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a two-stage, expert decision-making system for tennis matches. The first stage consisted in dividing the court area and defining the technical classification of the net. Tennis coaches were invited to assess tennis players’ skills on the competition court, dividing it into 48 areas on both sides of the court centerline and identifying the skills used by the players. In the second stage, a classification model was developed, and the score, hitting habits, and tennis skills of the players, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, over 10 matches, played from 2007 to 2019, were analyzed and classified using notational analysis and the C5.0 decision tree algorithm. The results show that the two players’ highest scored techniques were the forehand stroke in the backcourt and the backhand stroke in the half court. Thus, using this expert decision-making system, our data can provide other players with imaginary training objects from two of the top players in the world to be used during training and can allow the accumulation of experience for players through continuous simulation and training analysis.

The effect of various skill exercises in learning and developing the accuracy of the forehand and backhand for young squash players

By noting the researchers as they specialize in the racket games. Young squash players have an insufficient performance of some essential skills, and the inability to choose the required skill in proportion to different playing situations. Therefore, the researchers determined to study this issue by relying on the use of a variety of skill training. It aims to provide various different responses (in force, speed, direction, and distance) to the forehand and backhand of squash players. The objectives of the research were to prepare a variety of exercises in learning the forehand and backhand for squash players. Identifying the impact of the diversity of exercises on learning and development Forehand and backhand stroke for young squash players. The researchers used the experimental method by designing (the two equal groups with a pre- and post-test) in order to suit the nature of the problem and achieve the objectives of the research. The research sample represented the entire research community, and they are the Iraqi youth squash players for the 2021 season, which number (12) players. The most important conclusions were that the effect of various exercises on learning had a positive impact on the development of the forehand and backhand for squash players.

A Longitudinal Study of Changes in the Shot Characteristics of Women Table Tennis Players: Analysis of the Olympic Semifinals and Finals of Women's Singles.

This study aims to evaluate the changes in shot characteristics of elite women table tennis players through the longitudinal analysis of women's singles finals and semifinals from 2004 to 2021 Olympic Games. A total of 13 games were selected, and the stroke position, stroke type, ball placement, and stroke efficacy of 5,877 shots were analyzed using the notational analysis method. A chi-square test was used to test whether the shot characteristics had changed between game years, and the adjusted residual was calculated to judge these changes. In the four dimensions, namely, stroke position, stroke type, ball placement, and stroke efficacy, the shot characteristics of women table tennis players have changed with the year of the Olympic Games. The backhand stroke position has an upward trend from 55.0 to 58.1%, and the type of flip stroke has a downward trend from 7.6 to 2.1%. The ball placements of forehand and middle long have two fluctuations first rising from 11.2 to 12.7% and 20.3 to 23.7% and then falling from 12.7 to 5.3% and 23.7 to 16.0%. Moreover, backhand long is being increasingly used. In the year of equipment change, the proportion of neutral stroke increases from 40.0 to 61.5%. Once the players have become adapted to the equipment, the proportion of neutral stroke decreases from 61.5 to 48.5%. The development trend of women table tennis players is that the extreme stroke will be further increasingly used. Results suggest that elite women table tennis coaches and players should focus on the technical training in the forehand and backhand positions, strengthen the practice of topspin and block, and pay attention to the backhand long landing area. Women's table tennis coaches and players also need to pay close attention to the possible impact of changes in rules and equipment and carry out targeted training in advance to minimize the impact on the stroke efficacy of players.

Grip position affects upper limb kinematic chain during tennis double-handed backhand topspin strokes: considerations for transitioning tennis grip position technique

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to compare the upper limb kinematic chain of tennis players using either an eastern or continental non-dominant grip position during the forward swing of the double-handed backhand stroke. Sixteen right-handed tennis players performed backhands using two non-dominant grip positions (eastern and continental), aiming for two cross-court zones (deep and short). Trajectory data were captured using sixty reflective markers attached to the upper limb and racket using a 12-camera Vicon motion capture system (250 Hz). Peak angular velocity was significantly greater for multiple joint rotations at the dominant shoulder and entire non-dominant limb in the eastern grip. Subsequently, greater peak racket head angular velocity and post-impact ball speed were generated by the eastern grip, while shot accuracy was similar between grip types. There was delayed dominant shoulder peak adduction angular velocity for the continental grip, possibly due to a lack of skill familiarity causing changes in coordinative patterns. Collectively, the non-dominant grip position appears to influence proximal and distal upper limb movement. Future research should explore upper limb segment coordination comparing preferred and non-preferred double-handed backhand techniques and complete inter-disciplinary investigations to understand what grip positions are most effective for individuals to learn double-handed backhands.

REFLECTION STUDY OF OVERALL METHOD USING ON ENGLISH GRAND MASTERING AT BACKGROUND FOREHAND AND BACKHAND

Based on field conditions, the mastery of English grip techniques is still low on forehand and backhand strokes. So it is necessary to do a reflection study using the overall method of each lesson, because a reflection study aims to overcome any weaknesses that arise in students and teachers, making it easier to provide further material. This research is using experimental method. The population of class VII students of SMPN 2 Majalengka, amounting to 407 people with purposive sampling with a sample of 40 people, namely class VII H. The instrument used was a rubric assessment with 4 assessment norms. The data analysis technique used was the chi square test with a significance level of 1%. Based on data analysis, there is an increase of about 57% with the results of the chi square test, it turns out that X2 count = 70.7 X2 table = 18.47, which means that the results of the research using the overall method have an influence on mastery of the English grip on forehand and backhand strokes. Significant research results are also from the application of reflections from each meeting which is able to correct any weaknesses that arise. From the results of calculations and statistical analysis, it is concluded that: That the reflection study has an influence on the use of the overall method on the mastery of the English grip technique on forehand and backhand strokes in badminton.

Movement Mechanism Differences of Badminton Overhead Forehand and Backhand Smash Stroke Techniques during Teaching Learning in Human Movement Science

This study aims to analyze the movement of backhand and forehand smash stroke techniques in three dimen- sions using a kinematics approach in badminton. The results were analyzed using a descriptive and quantitative approach. Furthermore, 24 male badminton players from the University Student Activity Unit with an average age of 19.4±1.6 years, a height of 1.73±0.12m, and a weight of 62.8±3.7kg were used. The study was conducted using 3 Panasonic Handycams, a calibration set, 3D Frame DIAZ IV motion analysis software, and a speed radar gun. The data normalization from the kinematics values of the shoulder, elbow, and wrist joint motion was calculated using the inverse dynamics method. Also, the one-way Anova test was used to determine the differences in the kinematics of motion in the two different groups. The results showed that the speed of the shuttlecock during the forehand smash was greater than the backhand. In the maximal shoulder external rotation phase, two variables were found with the best results during the forehand smash, namely the velocity of shoulder external rotation and wrist palmar flexion. The velocity of shoulder internal rotation, elbow extension, and forearm supination in the maximum angu- lar velocity phase showed greater results when making a forehand smash.

Sensors for Wheelchair Tennis: Measuring Trunk and Shoulder Biomechanics and Upper Extremity Vibration during Backhand Stroke.

This study was the first to compare the differences in trunk/shoulder kinematics and impact vibration of the upper extremity during backhand strokes in wheelchair tennis players and the able-bodied players relative to standing and sitting positions, adopting an electromagnetic system along with wearable tri-axial accelerometers upon target body segments. A total of 15 wheelchair tennis players and 15 able-bodied tennis players enrolled. Compared to players in standing positions, wheelchair players demonstrated significant larger forward trunk rotation in the pre-preparation, acceleration, and deceleration phase. Significant higher trunk angular velocity/acceleration and shoulder flexion/internal rotation angular velocity/acceleration were also found. When able-bodied players changed from standing to sitting positions, significant changes were observed in the degree of forward rotation of the trunk and shoulder external rotation. These indicated that when the functions of the lower limbs and trunk are lacking or cannot be used effectively, “biomechanical solutions” such as considerable reinforcing movements need to be made before the hitting movement. The differences between wheelchair tennis players and able-bodied players in sitting positions could represent the progress made as the wheelchair players evolve from novices to experts. Knowledge about how sport biomechanics change regarding specific disabilities can facilitate safe and inclusive participation in disability sports such as wheelchair tennis.

Biomechanical comparison of backhand topspin against backspin between different level table tennis athletes using QUALSYS infrared acquisition

The technique of backhand topspin against backspin is important for table tennis players to gain more advantages in the confrontation. In this paper, a biomechanical analysis of backhand topspin against backspin was conducted with varsity and non-varsity male table tennis players from Zhejiang Changzheng Vocational and Technical College. The QUALISYS infrared acquisition system collected the changes in the athletes’ limb movements, and the force platform collected the changes in the athletes’ limb moments in the ball striking process. The results showed that professionally trained athletes were able to achieve greater joint angles and provide greater torques to the shoulder, elbow and wrist joints at the moment of batting. The main purpose of this paper is to provide data reference for the improvement of backhand stroke technique by studying the pattern of limb movements of players when they perform backhand stroke. In summary, in order to improve the backhand technique of hitting backspin, athletes need to focus on training the shoulder, elbow and wrist joints to achieve greater variations of angles and greater torques. The novelty of this paper is collecting the body movements of backhand strokes in a more concise and fast way with the QUALISYS infrared acquisition system.

Effects of backhand stroke styles on bone mineral content and density in postmenopausal recreational tennis players: a cross-sectional pilot investigation

BackgroundOne-handed backhand (OB) and two-handed backhand (TB) styles are commonly used in tennis, but only TB generates loadings on the non-dominant arm and a greater extension torque on the rear leg, leading to a greater axial torque involving rotation of the hip and trunk. The current study investigated whether those effects can further affect bone area (BA), bone mineral content (BMC) and density (BMD) in postmenopausal recreational tennis players.MethodsBA, BMC and BMD of the lumbar spine, hip and distal radius were assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in TB, OB, and swimmers’ group as a control (SG) (all participants self-reported for at least 5 years of exercise history, n = 14 per group). Muscular strength was assessed with a hand dynamometer. Among these three groups, the BA, BMC and BMD of distal radius and muscle strength were assessed using one-way ANOVA, and those of the lumbar region and the hip joint were tested by one-way ANCOVA.ResultsTB showed higher BMC and BMD for both lumbar spine and femoral neck than SG (all, p < 0.05). Both OB and TB showed greater BMD inter-trochanter than SG (both, p < 0.05). OB demonstrated greater inter-arm differences in the distal radius, which involved 1/3 distal for BMC and mid-distal radius for BMD compared to the TB and SG (all, p < 0.05). In addition, greater inter-arm asymmetry of grip strength was found in OB compared to TB and SG (both, p < 0.05).ConclusionFor postmenopausal women, performing two-handed backhand strokes, leads to higher BMC and BMD in the non-dominant arm, the lumbar region, and hips, indicating potential benefit to maintain bone health and strength. Whether this result leads to reducing the risk of osteoporosis needs to be investigated in further research.

The Application of Statistical Parametric Mapping to Evaluate Differences in Topspin Backhand between Chinese and Polish Female Table Tennis Players.

The research is aimed at comparing the kinematics (the movement pattern in the most important joints and accelerations of the playing hand) between female table tennis players coached in Poland (POL) and China (CHIN) during the performance of a topspin backhand stroke (so-called quick topspin). The study involved six female table tennis players at a high sports skill level, playing in Poland's highest league. Three were national team members of Poland (age: 20.3 ± 1.9), while the other three were players from China (age: 20.0 ± 0.0). Kinematics was measured using MR3 myoMuscle Master Edition system—inertial measurement unit (IMU) system. The participants performed one task of topspin backhand as a response to a topspin ball, repeated 15 times. Statistical parametric mapping (SPM) was calculated using SPM1D in a Python package that offered a high-level interface to SPM1D. The SPM method allowed for the determination of differences between the Chinese and Polish female athletes. The differences found are probably mainly due to differences in the training methodologies caused by different coaching systems. The observed differences include, among others, greater use of the so-called small steps in order to adapt and be ready during the back to ready position and backswing phases, which gives the CHIN players slightly better conditions for preparation for the next plays. The CHIN players' position compared to that of the POL players favours a quicker transition from the backhand to the forehand play. This difference is probably related to the difference in the dominant playing styles of the groups studied. Despite the differences in movement patterns in both groups, the exact value of playing hand was achieved. This may be a manifestation of the phenomenon of equifinality and compensation. All the differences found are probably mainly due to differences in the training methodologies caused by different coaching systems.

Tennis flat forehand drive stroke analysis: three dimensional kinematics movement analysis approach

The purpose of this study was to analyze the ability of the flat forehand drive stroke with a three-dimensional kinematics analysis approach in tennis. The method used was quantitative descriptive, while the subjects were 18 male tennis players (age 27 ± 3.7 years, height 169 ± 7.4 cm, body weight 71.5 ± 8.3 kg). This instrument uses three video cameras, one set of calibration, motion analysis software, manual markers and a radar speed gun. The results of this study showed that of the shoulder internal rotation, wrist flexion, trunk and hip rotations for players who have skills shows greater results when compared to the novice players. In addition, the skills player group produce ball speed that is greater than the novice players. The results of this study concluded that the series of motion starting from the hip joint rotation, the maximum external-internal shoulder rotation contributed greatly to the racket speed in generating greater ball momentum. Meanwhile, the shoulder internal velocity is the key to producing the racket maximum speed. The recommendation from the results of this study for further research is to compare the performance of forehand and backhand strokes in the elite group with a three-dimensional analysis approach.

Elbow, wrist kinematics and shock transmission of backhand stroke in wheelchair tennis players

ABSTRACT The aim was to compare the differences in kinematics of elbow and wrist and shock transmission of the upper extremity in wheelchair tennis players and able-bodied players (in standing and sitting position) during backhand strokes. Fifteen wheelchair tennis and 15 able-bodied tennis players enrolled. Electromagnetic system and trial-axial accelerometers were used to measure the difference in the kinematic parameters of the upper extremity and the impact vibration transferred across the wrist joint. The results indicated that wheelchair players demonstrated unique elbow and wrist kinematics, especially shorter total swing time, greater elbow flexion at preparation, lower wrist extension acceleration before impact, and smaller racket vibration at impact. Comparing to able-bodied players in standing, wheelchair players and players in sitting demonstrated significantly greater elbow joint flexion/extension angle, angular velocity, angular acceleration during extension, and wrist joint flexion angle. Wheelchair players also differ significantly with the players in sitting regarding elbow joint angular velocity and acceleration, and wrist joint flexion velocity. These adaptations and adjustments can be attributed to the missing lower extremity function and deficient trunk kinetic chain. The differences between wheelchair tennis players and able-bodied players in sitting could represent the progress as the wheelchair players moving from novices to experts.

MUSCLE ACTIVATION DURING FOREHAND AND BACKHAND DRIVES IN THE SPORT DISCIPLINE OF TENNIS

Tennis is one of the most popular individual sports all over the world. Strength and trained muscles are required for a player in order to achieve a good backhand, forehand, volley or flat stroke. Especially while playing tennis are many kinds of muscles involved, including the lower body muscles, trunk muscles and upper body muscles. The purpose of this review is to present the activated muscles in the basic tennis movements of forehand and backhand and to improve the knowledge about their role in order to help tennis players and coaches to enhance their tennis performance and to reduce risk of injury. To support the present review, data were gathered from library and network databases using keywords such as tennis, muscles, forehand, and backhand for publications between 2015 and 2019. Overall, thirty-five references were detected and used. The literature showed that forehand and backhand drives are strokes that involve muscles not only of the upper limbs but also a series of more complex movements that start with the feet and end with the swinging of the tennis racket. The insight for the action of the muscles in tennis should be utilized in tennis players so as to better understand the muscular function which takes part in specific tennis movements and has a greater performance. In addition, this knowledge is considered strongly beneficial for the coaches and the favourable building of the training process.

Comparing the Effect Two Different Concurrent Training Styles on Some Specific Physical Abilities and Technical Performance Level of Junior Squash Players

The current research aims to design two separate concurrent training programs (inter-unit vs. inter-week) and to compare their effects on improving some specific physical abilities and the technical performance level of junior squash players less than (17) years. The researcher used the experimental approach (two-group design) with two experimental groups (inter-unit / inter-week) and pre- and post-measurements. The researcher purposefully chose (22) junior squash players less than (17) years from Tanta Sports Club to be recruited as a main sample while (12) other players were recruited as a pilot sample. Results indicated that the second experimental group (inter-week concurrence) surpassed the first experimental group (inter-unit concurrence) in some physical abilities and the technical performance level of junior squash players. In addition, both programs had positive effects on strength, endurance and technical performance of forehand and backhand strokes for junior squash players.

Statistical Parametric Mapping Reveals Subtle Gender Differences in Angular Movements in Table Tennis Topspin Backhand.

Background: Statistical parametric mapping (SPM) is an innovative method based on the analysis of time series (data series) and is equivalent to statistical methods for numerical (discrete) data series. This study aimed to analyze the patterns of movement in the topspin backhand stroke in table tennis and to use SPM to compare these patterns between advanced female and male players. Methods: The research involved seven advanced male and six advanced female players. The kinematic parameters were measured using an inertial motion analysis system. The SPM was computed using the SPM1D Python package. Results: Our study made it possible to reproduce the pattern of movement in the joints during topspin backhand strokes in the studied athletes. During multiple comparisons, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) SPM test revealed many areas in the studied parameter series with statistically significant differences (p ≤ 0.01). Conclusions: The study presents the movement patterns in the topspin backhand shot and describes the proximal-to-distal sequencing principle during this shot. The SPM study revealed differences between men and women in the contribution of thoracic rotation, external shoulder rotation, dorsal flexion, and supination in the wrist during the hitting phase. These differences may result from the anatomical gender differences or variations in other functionalities of individual body segments between the study groups. Another possible source for these discrepancies may reside in tactical requirements, especially the need for a more vigorous attack in men. The gender differences presented in this study can help in the individualization of the training process in table tennis.