Performance Of Players Research Articles

Impact of Anthropometric Characteristics on Football Performance by Playing Position

The purpose of the present study is to find out the correlation between anthropometric variables and different playing positions in football. The objective of this study is to examine and compare the different body measurements of district-level football players across different playing positions: defenders, midfielders, and forwards. Body measurements are critical anthropometric attributes that contribute significantly to a football player's performance, and understanding their variation across positions can provide valuable insights into position-specific training and talent identification. A sample of 90 players from Bhopal district-level teams was selected for the study, and their body measurements were assessed through standardized anthropometric kit. The findings suggest that position-specific anthropometric variable could enhance the performance of football players, and coaches should consider these differences when developing conditioning programs. The study highlights the importance of specific anthropometric characteristics in determining positional effectiveness on the football field. These findings suggest that coaches and scouts should incorporate anthropometric data into player recruitment and development strategies, allowing for position-specific training that enhances individual and team performance. Tailoring physical conditioning based on these characteristics could further optimize athletic output and overall gameplay.

The Effect of Carbonhydrate Mouth Rinse on the Endurance Performance in Football Players

The presence of carbohydrates (CHO) in the mouth can enhance performance by stimulating the reward center of the brain. Mouth rinsing with CHO does not cause a potential side effect of gastrointestinal discomfort associated with CHO consumption. Numerous studies have demonstrated that using a carbohydrate solution via mouth rinsing can improve performance in endurance sports. However, research on football is limited, and the effectiveness of this approach in football is uncertain. This placebo-controlled and double-blind study was conducted to evaluate the impact of rinsing the mouth with a 15% CHO solution on endurance performance among football players. Twenty healthy male football players, aged between 20 and 25, participated in the study. Endurance performance was indirectly measured using the results of the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery (IR) test. Blood glucose and lactate levels of the football players were measured before and after the Yo-Yo IR test. They were given either a placebo or a 15% carbohydrate solution to rinse their mouths three times, including before warming up, before the Yo-Yo IR test, and in the middle of the test. There was no significant difference found in the levels of blood lactate, blood glucose, and VO2max values between the two groups (p> 0.05). The study concluded that rinsing the mouth with a 15% CHO solution had no significant impact on the endurance performance of football players.

Relationship between Grit, Positive Psychological Capital, and Perceived Performance of Middle School Taekwondo Players

Relationship between Grit, Positive Psychological Capital, and Perceived Performance of Middle School Taekwondo Players

How the perfectionistic climate of a sports team predicts the athletic performance of elite athletes: a case study of the CUBAL women's basketball team.

In competitive sports, understanding how the perfectionistic climate within teams influences the performance of elite female athletes can provide valuable insights for enhancing coaching practice and athletic achievement. Based on the cognitive appraisal theory of stress, this study constructs a dual-path model using stressors and coping strategies as mediators, referred to as the Perfectionistic Climate on Athletic Performance model (PCPM). The study explores the predictive role of the perfectionistic climate within sports teams on the athletic performance of elite female basketball players. The empirical study the relationships among the variables in the model using a sample of 125 core players from the top-level women's basketball teams in the 24th CUBAL24 tournament in 2022. A Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis was conducted using AMOS 20.0, primarily employing the bias-corrected Bootstrap method to test the dual-path model. The findings reveal double-edged paths towards a perfectionistic climate on athletic performance. In the positive pathway, a perfectionistic climate can positively predict athletic performance through challenge-related sources of stress and positive coping strategies. In the negative pathway, a perfectionistic climate can negatively predict athletic performance through threat-related sources of stress and negative coping strategies. Coaches need to pay attention to athletes' cognitive evaluations of the perfectionistic climate as a source of pressure. By setting challenging goals, coaches can guide athletes to view the perfectionistic climate of the sports team as a source of challenging pressure, thus unleashing their potential. Coaches should actively guide athletes in coping with the pressure brought about by the perfectionistic climate, enhancing their ability to handle stress. This will enable athletes to better adapt to the team's perfectionistic climate and further improve individual and team athletic performance.

Comparative Analysis of Activity Profiles in Division I Female Field Hockey Athletes: Before and after Game Time Modifications

Collegiate field hockey in the United States underwent a game format change in 2019, moving from two halves to four quarters to align with international play. The purpose of this study is to report physical activity profiles for US Collegiate Division I female field hockey athletes in the game format of four quarters and compare activity pre- and post-rule change. Activity profiles of a US Collegiate Division I female field hockey team were recorded using a Polar Pro Sensor. Fifteen regular season games from 2018 were analyzed from 21 players, and fifteen regular season games from 2019 were analyzed from 20 players. Absolute and relative activity profile data, including total distance, maximum velocity, low-speed and high-speed running, and number of surges for the team and positional difference, were compared across the two seasons. While an increase in the number of substitutions as well as a decrease in match time was noted, overall, the change in format had minimal impact on player performance profiles, including total time played, distance traveled, and maximum velocity. The results suggest the change in format did not alter the physical activity profiles for midfielders or forwards but did change for defenders. Implications for performance that existed before the rule change can be seen as consistent going forward.

Muscle structure predictors of vertical jump performance in elite male volleyball players: a cross-sectional study based on ultrasonography.

The objective of this investigation is to examine the contribution of key muscle groups in the lower limbs to vertical jumping performance in elite male volleyball players. Specifically, the study focuses on the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), and lateral gastrocnemius (LG), as well as exploring differences between attack jump and other vertical jump types. To achieve this, we employed B-mode ultrasound to evaluate the anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSA), muscle thickness (MT), pennation angle (PA), and fascicle length (FL) of the RF, VL, and LG in the participants. Fifteen elite male volleyball players were recruited as participants for this study. Jump heights were measured for four types of vertical jumps: attack jump (AJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), and drop jump (DJ). We conducted regression analyses to assess whether the previously mentioned muscle structures could predict jump performance. Our findings reveal that the muscle structure of the RF does not exhibit any significant correlation with the height of any jump. However, VL-ACSA displays a significant and the most potent predictive effect on jump height for all four jump types (AJ: R 2 = 0.32, p = 0.001; CMJ: R 2 = 0.37, p = 0.005; SJ: R 2 = 0.52, p = 0.001; DJ: R 2 = 0.25, p = 0.021). Conversely, LG-FL only demonstrates a significant and stronger predictive effect on AJ jump height (R 2 = 0.18, p = 0.009). Combining VL-ACSA, LG-FL, and training age through multiple linear regression analysis resulted in a highly significant model for predicting AJ jump height (F = 13.86, R 2 = 0.73). Moreover, the model incorporating VL-ACSA and training age is also important for predicting CMJ, SJ, and DJ jump heights (F = 8.41, R 2 = 0.51; F = 13.14, R 2 = 0.63; F = 5.95, R 2 = 0.41; respectively). The muscle structure indicators in the lower limbs significantly predict jump performance among elite male volleyball players. However, different jump types are influenced by distinct indicators, particularly in the case of AJ, which is associated with LG-FL. This suggests that enhancing LG-FL may positively impact AJ ability, thereby emphasizing the importance of specificity in training. To optimize specialized jump performance in volleyball players, practitioners are advised to assess VL-ACSA and LG-FL and incorporate step-up and eccentric strength training targeting the calf muscles to yield considerable benefits.

Relationship between Interlimb Asymmetries and Performance Variables in Adolescent Tennis Players.

Tennis is an individual sport characterised by high-intensity action, including sprints and changes of direction (COD). However, there is a gap in the knowledge of limb asymmetries in adolescent tennis players and their association with performance. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between asymmetry in vertical and horizontal jump tests (CMJ and HJ) and COD with lower limb performance variables in adolescent tennis players. Forty-five adolescent tennis players (age: 13.81 ± 1.08 years; height: 167.64 ± 9.9 cm; body mass: 57.48 ± 10.94 kg; body mass index: 20.27 ± 2.18 kg/m2) performed the CMJ test (unilateral and bilateral), horizontal jumps (unilateral and bilateral), 25 m sprint, and 180° COD test. The single-leg countermovement jump showed the greatest asymmetries among the different tests (6.62 ± 9.35%). Notable negative relationships were found between CMJ asymmetry and COD asymmetry with unilateral horizontal jump variables (r = -0.30 to -0.53). In addition, CMJ asymmetry showed notable relationships with CMJR (r = 0.49) and COD180R (r = 0.29), whereas COD asymmetry showed a notable relationship with COD180L (r = 0.40). On the other hand, HJ asymmetry showed no notable relationships with any variable. The main findings of this study indicate that greater imbalances in the CMJ and COD tests are associated with a reduced capacity to perform unilateral horizontal jumps. These results suggest the incorporation of training protocols to reduce interlimb asymmetries in growing athletes to improve their performance. This practical application is important for coaches and physical trainers who aim to improve the physical performance of adolescent tennis players. Greater asymmetry results in a reduced ability to produce unilateral horizontal force.

Social jetlag affects jump skills in sub-elite volleyball players.

Social jetlag (SJL), resulting from misalignment between biological rhythms and social schedules, has emerged as a prevalent phenomenon in modern society, particularly among young athletes. However, the effect of SJL on performance is poorly studied. Jump and dynamic balance are two key skills in volleyball, as the first allows the player to perform better both during the offense and defense phase, and the second is fundamental in landing and in injury prevention. Therefore, our aim was to investigate the effect of SJL on jump skill performance and balance in female volleyball players. Thirty female volleyball players (mean age: 17.3 ± 0.88 years) participated in the study. SJL was assessed using the Munich ChronoType Questionnaire (MCTQ), integrated with Jankowsky's sleep-corrected formula. Jump skill performance was evaluated using a standardized jump test, the Vertec Jump Test, while balance was assessed with the Y Balance Test. The tests were performed at 09:00 a.m. and at 06:00 p.m. The results revealed that players with greater SJL exhibited decreased jump performance, characterized by lower vertical jump height (p = 0.02). Furthermore, players with lower SJL showed the typical difference between morning and afternoon performance (p = 0.001), demonstrating their synchronization between biological rhythms and social commitments, while no statistically significant difference between the two sessions was shown in players with higher SJL. Regarding balance, no significant association with SJL was found, but the morning session yielded lower results than the afternoon one (p = 0.01). These findings highlight the detrimental impact of SJL on jump skill performance, underscoring the importance of optimizing sleep-wake schedules and circadian alignment to enhance athletic performance. Future research should explore targeted interventions, such as sleep hygiene education, to minimize social jetlag and promote optimal performance in adolescent athletes.

Relation of general-perceptual cognitive abilities and sport-specific performance of young competitive soccer players.

In soccer, skill is significantly influenced by motor skills and physical constitution. In addition, perceptual-cognitive abilities are thought to affect sport-specific performance. Nevertheless, there are hardly any studies investigating the relationship of general cognitive abilities with sport-specific performance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze relationships between general perceptual-cognitive abilities and soccer-specific performance in competitive youth sports. Thirty highly talented male youth soccer players aged 12-14years completed various perceptual-cognitive (selective attention, cognitive flexibility, inhibition, working memory, peripheral perception, and choice response) and sport-specific on-field tests. Cognitive abilities were assessed using a computer-based test system. Soccer-specific performance skills were evaluated by two sport-specific on-field tests. The relation between perceptual-cognitive abilities and soccer-specific performance was examined using a correlation analysis as well as a four-stage regression analysis. Overall, the expression of general perceptual-cognitive abilities was found to have an impact on performance in soccer-specific test situations, particularly cognitive flexibility and selective attention. Our results suggest that general cognitive tests could be an important tool for the evaluation of cognitive abilities in soccer. This study brings together key approaches in expertise research and makes a significant contribution to a better understanding of expertise in soccer.

Extending a MAPE-K loop-based framework for Dynamic Difficulty Adjustment in single-player games

Dynamic Difficulty Adjustment (DDA) has emerged as a notable solution to address the demand for adaptive gameplay in digital games. However, the DDA domain presents various research challenges that require careful consideration. In response, this study introduces an approach that merges insights from self-adaptive systems with the specific requirements of adaptive gameplay. Our contribution involves extending the DDA-MAPEKit framework, which was previously presented. Constructed on the modular MAPE-K loop foundation, this solution facilitates the assimilation of multiple DDA strategies. The primary objective is to provide tailored treatment for distinct game mechanics (or groups of mechanics) by constructing individual MAPE-K loops for each of them. Notable enhancements include the development of a descriptive player model involving continuous player profile assessment, performance calculation, and modifications to the rules’ system to better align with the player’s conditions. A proof of concept is executed by applying DDA-MAPEKit in a Space Shooter game to assess the viability of the proposed model. Simulations are conducted both with and without the DDA mechanisms. Encouraging results are obtained through a comparative analysis of the gathered data. Evidence points out that incorporating the DDA mechanism, implemented with DDA-MAPEKit, may effectively lead to adapting variables depicting the complexity of game mechanics following the player’s performance. This fact underscores the potential effectiveness of our approach in addressing the challenges within the realm of DDA.

Training Effect of Straight-Line Trajectory with the Ball on Dribbling Results on Disporasu Medan Football Players Aged 14-17 Years Old

The objective of this study was to examine the impact of straight-line trajectory ball training on the dribbling abilities of players at the Disporasu Football School, aged between 14 and 17 years old, in Medan City, Indonesia. The research addressed the observed deficiencies in dribbling abilities, including players' difficulty in maintaining close ball control and the monotony of existing training methods. The study employed an experimental one-group pre-test post-test design and involved 17 athletes, representing the entire population of the age group at the school. The intervention comprised seven variations of straight-line trajectory ball training, conducted thrice weekly for a period of six weeks between September 21st and December 12th, 2022. The dribbling ability of the subjects was evaluated using a standardized dribbling test before and after the training period. The data were analyzed using paired sample t-tests, with normality and homogeneity checks performed prior to hypothesis testing. The results demonstrated a notable enhancement in dribbling proficiency following the intervention, with the mean dribbling time reducing from 21.18 to 19.66 seconds. The study's findings indicate that straight-line trajectory ball training significantly enhances dribbling ability in youth soccer players. These results provide coaches and trainers with an evidence-based approach to improve essential soccer skills during a crucial developmental period. The research contributes to a broader understanding of skill acquisition in soccer, offering practical insights for optimizing player performance and engagement. Additionally, the study underscores the significance of structured, progressive training programs in youth soccer development and provides a valuable template for ongoing assessment and refinement of training methods.

POST-ACTIVATION PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT EFFECT OF TWO TUCK-JUMP PROTOCOLS WITH DIFFERENT VOLUMES ON 15-S VERTICAL JUMP PERFORMANCE

Post-activation performance enhancement is a principle that suggests that an acute bout of high intensity voluntary exercise will be followed by an improvement in strength, power, jump and speed of a subsequent task. This study aimed to investigate changes in 15 s repetitive vertical jump performance after one set (1 x 10 repetitions) or three sets (3 x 10 repetitions) of tuck jumps conditioning activity. Twelve male (age 21.6 ± 1.5 years) trained volleyball players participated in this study. The participants performed three experimental sessions with a randomized, counterbalanced, and crossover research design: a-) single set of tuck jump (SJ); b-) multiset of tuck jump (MJ); and c-) control (CON). Each experimental session was composed of a standard warm-up, conditioning activity, 5 minutes of rest, and then 15 s vertical jump test, respectively. Peak (p=0.029) and average (p=0.018) jump height, peak (p=0.029) and average (p = 0.007) power output were significantly greater in SJ than CON. No significant differences were observed in the fatigue index between conditions (p=0.657). Overall, there were no significant differences in any parameters between MJ and CON and between SJ and MJ (p>0.05). These results showed that a SJ could improve repetitive vertical jump performance in trained male volleyball players, but caution should be given while using MJ before trainings or matches including activities with repetitive jumping.

Effectiveness of 12-Week Core Stability Training on Postural Balance in Soccer Players With Groin Pain: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Pilot Study.

Core stability training (CST) is effective in improving postural balance, core endurance, and self-reported outcomes in different populations. This study aimed to investigate the effect of CST in soccer players with groin pain (GP). CST would improve postural balance performance, core endurance, and self-reported outcomes in soccer players with GP. Randomized controlled trial. Level 2. Soccer players with GP who met the selection criteria were assigned randomly to a CST (CSTG, n = 10) or a control (CG, n = 10) group. The CG undertook no additional physical activity program besides their usual training. The CSTG performed a 12-week CST comprising 76 ~75 min sessions. Static (force platform) and dynamic (Y-Balance test) postural balance, core endurance (McGill trunk endurance tests), and self-reported outcomes (Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score [HAGOS]) were assessed before and immediately after the 12-week CST. Significant improvements were seen in dynamic postural balance (P = 0.04 to <0.01), HAGOS scores (P = 0.02 to <0.01), and core endurance measures (P < 0.01) in the CSTG in posttest compared with pretest session and compared with CG. Static bipedal postural balance measures showed significant improvements (eyes open, P = 0.02; eyes closed, P < 0.01) in the CSTG in posttest compared with pretest session. However, no significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed between CSTG and CG after the training period. A 12-week CST improved static (foam surface) and dynamic postural balance, core endurance measures, and HAGOS scores. The beneficial effect of CST on improving postural balance, core endurance, and self-reported outcomes in soccer players with GP suggests that this training would be an important feature of rehabilitation programs for these players. Coaches and clinicians should prioritize CST training when designing rehabilitation programs.

Use of AI and Data Analysis to Improve Cricket Player Performance

Use of AI and Data Analysis to Improve Cricket Player Performance

Combined Impact of Creatine, Caffeine, and Variable Resistance on Repeated Sprint Ability in Young Soccer Players.

There is evidence that both intra-serial variable resistance (I-sVR), as pre-activation within the post-activation performance enhancement cycle (PAPE), and creatine and caffeine supplementation increase athletic performance in isolation. However, the effect of the three conditioning factors on 30 m repeated sprint ability (RSA) performance in young soccer players is unknown. This study determined the summative and isolation effect of ergogenic aids and pre-activation in half-back squats (HBSs) with I-sVR on performance in an RSA test in young soccer players. Twenty-eight young soccer players were randomly assigned to either EG1 (n = 7, creatine + caffeine + I-sVR), EG2 (n = 7, creatine + placebo2 + I-sVR), EG3 (n = 7, placebo1 + caffeine + I-sVR), or EG4 (n = 7, placebo1 + placebo2 + I-sVR), using a factorial, four-group-matched, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. Creatine supplementation included 0.3 g/kg/day for 14 days, caffeine supplementation included 0.3 mg/kg per day, and pre-activation in HBS with I-sVR (1 × 5 at 30% 1RM [1.0-1.1 m/s] + 1 × 4 at 60% 1RM [0.6-0.7 m/s]). The RSA test and HBS outcomes were evaluated. Three-way ANOVA showed non-significant differences for the RSA test and HBS outcomes (p > 0.05). At the end of this study, it was found that the three ergogenic aids, together, do not generate a summative effect on the physical performance of young soccer players. However, it is important to analyze individual responses to these specific protocols.

The Effect of Biomechanical and Viscoelastic Properties of Gastrocnemius (Lateral-Medial) Muscle and Achilles Tendon on Jumping Performance in Professional Soccer Players

Anaerobic performance (vertical jumps) is an important indicator in determining athletic performance in soccer. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of biomechanical and viscoelastic properties of lateral and medial gastrocnemius (LG&amp;amp;MG) muscle and achilles tendon (AT) on jumping performance of professional soccer players. A total of 21 male professional soccer players with a mean age of 18.19±0.40 years, a mean height of 180.48±6.25 cm, a mean body weight of 70.71±7.82 kg, and a mean BMI of 21.66±1.65 kg/m₂ were included in this study. LG and MG muscle, as well as AT biomechanical and viscoelastic properties were evaluated with Myoton Pro device. Measurements were performed in the prone position of the soccer players, LG and MG at 50° plantar flexion, and AT at 0° (neutral position) at an angle of 4 cm above the calcaneal tubercle. Counter movement jump (CMJ) were recorded with the high-speed camera in the validated My Jump 2 application. A significant correlation was observed between the LG (F) tension value and CMJ (P) value and between the MG (R&amp;amp;C) values and the CMJ (F&amp;amp;P) value of professional soccer players (p&amp;lt;0.05). There was no significant relationship between AT values and CMJ values (p&amp;gt;0.05). It should not be forgotten that training coaches on this subject and applying this information to soccer players by conscious coaches will bring about increases in the athletic performance of soccer players, and all these performance characteristics can be achieved with planned and programmed training.

Effects of a Dietary Microalgae (Arthrospira platensis) Supplement on Stress, Well-Being, and Performance in Water Polo Players: A Clinical Case Series.

A common tactic used by athletes to improve performance, lessen tiredness, and hasten recovery is dietary supplementation. We aimed to assess the role of a microalgae dietary liquid supplement additivated with Copper 22.5% NRV in water polo players' performance. Twenty male water polo players were split into two groups: ten (spirulina group) took a twice-daily nutritional supplement containing 15 mL of spirulina liquid extract (titrated in Phycocyanin 1 mg/mL) and additivated with Copper 22.5% NRV for eight weeks, and ten (the placebo group) did not take the supplement. Subjective evaluations were finished using the Athlete's Subjective Performance Scale (ASPS). Levels of the biomarker creatine phosphokinase (CPK) were also assessed. The spirulina group's mean total ASPS score increased significantly from baseline to follow-up and was significantly better than that of the placebo group (p < 0.001). Conversely, ASPS ratings in the placebo group slightly decreased. A positive correlation between spirulina supplementation and less severe ASPS was found using correlation matrix analysis. However, there was a slight difference in CPK levels from the baseline to the follow-up in the spirulina group. A dietary supplement comprising spirulina and copper may help water polo players' subjective performance measurements by lowering muscular tension. Larger, randomized controlled trials are yet required.

ASSESSMENT OF 16-YEAR-OLD FEMALE BASKETBALL PLAYERS WITH CHRONOJUMP SYSTEM

In the basketball game, lower extremity strength plays a key role in various game actions. The jumping mat (Chronojump), an open-source (free software and open hardware), is available to the public on official servers, emphasizing peer review and corrections by the user community. The aim of this study was to establish the explosive power of the lower limbs of 16-year-old female basketball players from the Bulgarian National Basketball Team. We used specialized software, a signal transducer, and an electro-contact mat Chronojump. The subject of the study was the explosive power of the lower limbs of 16-year-old female basketball players from the national team of Bulgaria. The object of the study was the performance of the Chronojump platform tests to establish the explosive strength of the lower limbs. The study was conducted among 16 active female basketball players selected for the Bulgarian national team. Each participant performed all jumps at the same time of day. They performed CMJ - 90-degree squat jump; SJ - Squat, two-second hold, and jump; CMJAT - Jump with arms extended forward and up; RCMJ - Manipulative 90-degree squat jump; Stiff ness - Manipulative ankle jump. The test’s mathematical-statistical results were processed with variance analysis and One-way ANOVA, with a critical value of the F-criterion (F = 2.38) and high statistical reliability (Pt ≥ 95%). Results showed that hand involvement is key in rebounding. In terms of jumping endurance and explosiveness quotient, female athletes had a lower level of development. This research has the potential to significantly impact the training and performance of female basketball players.

Association between aerobic performance and physiological responses in Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 2, and the futsal-specific intermittent endurance test in trained futsal players.

This prospective cross-sectional study aimed to delineate associations between the performance and physiological responses to the Bruce test with two field tests, the futsal intermittent endurance test (FIET) and the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level-2 (YYIR2) in elite male futsal players, in order to endorse one of field test to futsal coaches. Fifteen elite futsal players (age 20 ± 3 years) have been participated in this study. Main outcome measurements included aerobic power, heart rate, blood lactate, ventilation, VO2, VCO2, VE-VO2, and VE-VCO2 indicators during FIET, YYIR2, and the Bruce test with carrying out a portable gas analyzer. The Bruce test is significantly correlated with FIET and YYIR2 with respect to key outcome measures, including performance (r>0.59), aerobic power (r>0.69), heart rate (r>0.80), and blood lactate levels (r>0.60). The two field tests, FIET and YYIR2, were found to exhibit strong to perfect interrelationships. When examining the indicators such as VE, VO2, VCO2, VE-VO2, and VE-VCO2, moderate to strong correlations were identified across all three testing methods. However, the relationship between the Bruce test and YYIR2 was particularly noteworthy in terms of respiratory exchange ratio (RER) and metabolic equivalent of task (METS), showing a significant correlation. The YYIR2 and FIET appear to be valid practical field tests for measuring aerobic fitness and performance in competitive male futsal players.

Relationships Between Force-Time Curve Variables and Tennis Serve Performance in Competitive Tennis Players.

Fourel, L, Touzard, P, Fadier, M, Arles, L, Deghaies, K, Ozan, S, and Martin, C. Relationships between force-time curve variables and tennis serve performance in competitive tennis players. J Strength Cond Res 38(9): 1667-1674, 2024-Practitioners consider the role of the legs in the game of tennis as fundamental to achieve high performance. But, the exact link between leg actions and high-speed and accurate serves still lacks understanding. Here, we investigate the correlation between force-time curve variables during serve leg drive and serve performance indicators. Thirty-six competitive players performed fast serves, on 2 force plates, to measure ground reaction forces (GRF). Correlation coefficients describe the relationships between maximal racket head velocity, impact height, and force-time curve variables. Among all the variables tested, the elapsed time between the instants of maximal vertical and maximal anteroposterior GRF ( r = -0.519, p < 0.001) and the elapsed time between the instant of maximal anteroposterior GRF and ball impact ( r = -0.522, p < 0.001) are the best predictors of maximal racket velocity. Maximal racket head velocity did not significantly correlate with the mean or maximal vertical GRF or with the mean or maximum rate of vertical force development. The best predictor for impact height is the relative net vertical impulse during the concentric phase ( r = 0.772, p < 0.001). This work contributes to a better understanding of the mechanical demands of tennis serve motion and gives guidelines to improve players preparation and performance. Trainers should encourage their players to better synchronize their upward and forward pushing action during the serve to increase maximal racket head velocity. Players should also aim to improve their relative net vertical impulse to increase impact height through strength training and technical instructions.