A biomechanical analysis of the one-handed backhand groundstroke

Abstract

The problem of this study was to biomechanically analyze the data of the performance of the one-handed backhand groundstroke for female beginning and advanced tennis players using the flexed (circular backswing) or the extended (straight backswing) elbow. The Ss selected for this study were 6 members of the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse Tennis Team and 6 beginning players with a year or less of tennis experience. These Ss were filmed at a rate of 100 fps while executing the one-handed backhand groundstroke. The following data were described after analysis of the film: flexion of the elbow joint at the completion of the backswing and start of the forward swing through the contact point; displacement of the center of gravity of the right hand, right lower arm, right upper arm, racket and total body; actual and cumulative time from the completion of the backswing through the contact point; linear velocities of the racket, right hand, right lower arm and right upper arm; and the contact point in relation to the body. Ten tracings were made of each subject at the completion of the backswing through the contact point. The author concluded that individuals execute the backhand with a difference in style and the effectiveness of this stroke was influenced by anticipation, wrist strength, power, and flexibility.