Can laboratory-based tennis profiles predict field tests of tennis performance?

J Strength Cond Res. 2004 Feb;18(1):136-43. doi: 10.1519/1533-4287(2004)018<0136:cltppf>2.0.co;2.

Abstract

The present study examined the impact of physical characteristics of adolescent competitive tennis players (13-18 years) on field tests of tennis performance. Results (n = 33) showed that boys were taller (p = 0.001), possessed greater wingspan (p = 0.030), had greater maximum oxygen consumption (p = 0.001), and performed better on isokinetic strength measurements. Multiple regression analyses controlling for age and sex showed that height (p = 0.025), maximum minute ventilation (p = 0.005), and isokinetic strength measurements significantly and positively affected ball velocity. Knee extension average power was the only variable to positively and significantly affect ball placement (p = 0.040); however, several isokinetic strength measurements negatively affected ball placement. For the nondominant side, down-the-line strokes showed reduced accuracy (p = 0.001) and ball velocity (p = 0.001) compared with cross-court strokes. Given our results, resistance training may be beneficial for the performance of on-court tennis play.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anthropometry
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology
  • Physical Education and Training / methods*
  • Physical Fitness
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Regression Analysis
  • Sex Factors
  • Tennis / physiology*