SPinPong - Virtual Reality Table Tennis Skill Acquisition using Visual, Haptic and Temporal Cues.

Learning an advanced skill in sports requires a huge amount of practice and players also have to overcome both physical difficulties and the dullness of repetitive training. Returning a fast spin shot in table tennis could be taken as an example, as athletes need to judge the spin type and decide the racket pose within a second, which is difficult for beginners. Therefore, in this paper, we show how to design an intuitive training system to acquire this specific skill using different cues in Virtual Reality (VR). Using VR, we can easily provide visual information, attach haptic devices, and distort the speed of time, however, it is difficult to decide which types of information could benefit the training. In an initial study, by comparing real world training with VR training, we showed the effect of VR training and obtained some insights about augmentation for training spin shots. The training system was then improved by adding three new conditions using different visualizations and temporal distortions, as well as a haptic racket for creating realistic feedback. Finally, we performed a detailed experiment, which suggest a significant improvement of skill for each condition compared to the baseline, while a qualitative evaluation indicates that both users' motivation and their understanding of spin are increased by using our system.

Validation of the learning situations scale for sports coaches - ESATE: development process and validity evidence / Validação da escala de situações de aprendizagem para treinadores esportivos - ESATE: processo de elaboração e evidências de validade

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to present the first pieces of evidence on the validity of the Learning Situations Scale for Sports Coaches [Escala de Situações de Aprendizagem para Treinadores Esportivos] (ESATE) - referring to content; model fit; and internal consistencies. Four evaluating judges participated in the content validation. In the other procedures, the ESATE was applied to 104 tennis coaches. Initially, the ESATE had 25 items divided into three dimensions: Mediated, Non-Mediated and Internal Situations. The items were evaluated in terms of clarity of language, practical relevance and theoretical dimensionality. Those items that did not reach desired levels were reformulated or reallocated into another dimension. All items presented satisfactory indices (CVC ≥ 0.80) for clarity of language and practical relevance, and "substantial"/"almost perfect" indices of agreement between judges (K ≥ 0.79) for theoretical dimensionality. The model that best fitted the available data was the second-order three-dimensional model with 18 items. It presented "reasonable"/"good" fit indices. The internal consistency of the scale was classified as "good" (α = 0.873), whereas the internal consistency of its dimensions was "weak"/"good" (0.676 ≤ α ≤ 0.801). Thus, it is possible to state that the final version of the ESATE showed satisfactory psychometric qualities for the assessment of learning situations when applied to tennis coaches.

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi apresentar as primeiras evidências de validade da Escala de Situações de Aprendizagem para Treinadores Esportivos (ESATE) - relativas ao conteúdo; ao ajuste do modelo; e às consistências internas. Na validação de conteúdo participaram quatro juízes-avaliadores. Nos demais procedimentos, a ESATE foi aplicada a 104 treinadores de tênis. Inicialmente a ESATE possuía 25 itens divididos em três dimensões: Situações Mediadas, Não Mediadas e Internas. Os itens passaram por avaliação de clareza de linguagem, pertinência prática e dimensionalidade teórica. Aqueles itens que não atingiram níveis desejados passaram por uma reformulação, ou foram realocados em outra dimensão. Todos os itens apresentaram índices satisfatórios (CVC ≥ 0,80) para clareza de linguagem e pertinência prática, e índices "substanciais"/"quase perfeitos" de concordância entre juízes (K ≥ 0,79) para dimensionalidade teórica. O modelo que melhor se adequou aos dados disponíveis foi o tridimensional de segunda ordem com 18 itens. Apresentou índices de ajustamento "razoáveis"/"bons". A consistência interna da escala foi classificada como "boa" (α = 0,873), e de suas dimensões foi "fraca"/"boa" (0,676 ≤ α ≤ 0,801). Assim, afirma-se que a versão final da ESATE demonstrou qualidades psicométricas satisfatórias para avaliação das situações de aprendizagem quando aplicada a treinadores de tênis.

Efecto del entrenamiento de imágenes motoras en el rendimiento del servicio de tenis en atletas de tenis jóvenes / Effect of motor imagery training on tennis service performance in young tennis athletes / Efeito do treinamento em imagens motoras no desempenho do serviço de tênis em jovens atletas de tênis

The objective of the study was to analyse the effect of motor imagery training on tennis service performance among tennis athletes. Participants were twenty-eight young male tennis players, randomly divided into two groups: imagery training (ITG, n = 14) and control group (CG, n = 14). It was a controlled and randomized experimental investigation, lasting eight weeks. the CG watched videos about the history of the Olympics, while ITG did motor imagery training. the tennis service performance was obtained by the product between accuracy and stroke velocity [accuracy x mean velocity of all strokes (km/h)]. the effect of group vs time interaction (p <.01) was identified for all performance indicators [accuracy, running speed and performance (precision x speed)], with improvement only in ITG (p = 01). It concluded that motor imagery training would be considered an effective strategy to enhance the tennis service performance among male tennis players

El objetivo del estudio fue analizar el efecto del entrenamiento de imágenes en el rendimiento del tenis de servicio entre los atletas de tenis. Los participantes fueron 28 tenistas jóvenes, divididos aleatoriamente en dos grupos: formación en imágenes (ITG, n = 14) y grupo de control (CG, n = 14). Es una investigación experimental controlada y aleatorizada, que dura ocho semanas. El CG miró videos sobre la historia de los Juegos Olímpicos, mientras que ITG hizo entrenamiento de imágenes. El rendimiento del tenis de servicio se obtuvo por el producto entre precisión y velocidad de carrera [precisión x velocidad media de todos los golpes (km/h)]. Se identificó el efecto de interacción grupo contra tiempo (p < .01) para todos los indicadores de rendimiento [precisión, velocidad de carrera y rendimiento (precisión x velocidad)], con mejoría solo en ITG (p = .01). Se concluyó que el entrenamiento con imágenes se puede considerar una estrategia efectiva para mejorar el rendimiento del tenis entre los tenistas

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar o efeito do treinamento imaginário sobre o desempenho do saque em atletas de tênis. Participaram vinte e oito jovens atletas de tênis, randomicamente divididos em dois grupos: treinamento imaginário (TI, n =14) e grupo controle (GC, n = 14). Trata-se de investigação experimental randomizada e controlada, com duração de oito semanas. O GC assistiu vídeos sobre a história das Olimpíadas, ao passo que o TI realizou o treinamento imaginário. O desempenho do saque foi mensurado pelo produto entre acurácea e velocidade da bola [acurácea x velocidade média da bola (km/h]. Foi revelado efeito de interação grupo vs. tempo (p < .01) para todos os indicadores de desempenho [acurácea, velocidade da bola e desempenho (precisão vs. velocidade)], com melhora somente para o TI (p = .01). Concluiu-se que o treinamento imaginário pode ser considerado uma estratégia efetiva para potencializar o desempenho do saque em atletas de tênis do sexo masculino

Programas de entrenamiento para mejorar el rendimiento en jóvenes tenistas: revisión sistemática / Training programs to improve performance in young tennis players: systematic review

En los últimos años, el tenis ha crecido en popularidad, provocando que la competitividad se haya incrementado considerablemente en todos los grupos de edad. Los jugadores de tenis, para ser competitivos y alcanzar el éxito, requieren de un alto nivel de desarrollo en cuatro habilidades fundamentales: táctica, técnica, física y psicológica. A la hora de diseñar programas de entrenamiento para los tenistas, es importante tener en cuenta los requerimiento físicos y fisiológicos de los jugadores, ya que pueden variar según el nivel del jugador, el estilo de juego, el sexo o la superficie de la pista, entre otros. Estas habilidades fundamentales y requerimientos se deben trabajar en edades tempranas para lograr el éxito en edades adultas, por lo tanto, el objetivo de la presente revisión sistemática fue estudiar las características de los programas de entrenamiento que se han llevado a cabo en jóvenes tenistas para mejorar su rendimiento. Se realizó una estrategia de búsqueda electrónica utilizando las bases de datos PubMed, SPORTDiscus y los términos tennis, performance, adolescent, male, female, training e intervention. Veintitrés artículos fueron revisados y solo 7 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. El programa de entrenamiento pliométrico es el más utilizado para mejorar el rendimiento de los jóvenes tenistas, siendo un programa de corta duración, barato y de fácil cumplimentación para entrenadores y preparadores físicos de tenis. Esta revisión sistemática podría contribuir al diseño de futuros programas de entrenamiento para mejorar el rendimiento de jóvenes tenistas(AU)

In recent years, tennis has grown in popularity, causing competitiveness to have increased significantly in all age groups. Tennis players, in order to be competitive and achieve success, require a high level of development in four fundamental skills: tactical, technical, physical and psychological. When designing training programs for tennis players, it is important to take into account the physical and physiological requirements of the players, as they may vary according to player level, the play style, sex or track surface, among others. These fundamental skills and requirements must be worked at an early age to achieve success in adult ages, therefore, the systematic review objective was to study the training programs characteristics in young tennis players for improve their performance. An electronic search strategy was performed using PubMed, SPORTDiscus and the terms tennis, performance, adolescent, male, female, training and intervention. Twenty-three articles were reviewed and only seven met the inclusion criteria. The plyometric training program is the most used to performance improve of young tennis players, being a short, inexpensive and easy rogram for tennis trainers. This systematic review could contribute to future design for training programs to performance improve of young tennis players(AU)

Relación entre parámetros técnicos y fisiológicos en tenistas de competición / Relationship between technical and physiological parameters in competition tennis players

Durante los últimos años ha aumentado el interés para evaluar parámetros fisiológicos y técnicos en jugadores de tenis, actualmente existen pruebas que permiten registrar paralelamente estos parámetros en la misma pista de tenis. El objetivo de este estudio es determinar las relaciones entre parámetros técnicos y fisiológicos derivados de la aplicación de una prueba de resistencia específica en tenis. 38 jugadores de competición realizaron una prueba continua e incremental y se registraron parámetros técnicos (efectividad técnica (ET), punto de disminución de efectividad técnica (PDET)) y parámetros fisiológicos (consumo máximo de oxígeno (VO2max), primer y segundo umbrales ventilatorios (UV1 y UV2)). Se encontró una relación significativa entre PDET y UV2 (r=0,65; p<0,05) y entre ET y VO2max (r=0,459; p<0,01). En conclusión, los jugadores con mejor perfil aeróbico tendieron a obtener mejores resultados de ET y se observó una tendencia a disminuir la ET a partir de la aparición del UV2 (AU)

In recent years there has been an increased interest to assess physiological and technical parameters in tennis players; currently there are tests that allow registering these parameters in parallel on the tennis court. The aim of this study is to determine the relationships between technical and physiological parameters resulting from the application of a specific endurance test procedure for tennis players. 38 competitive male tennis players performed a continuous and incremental field test and technical (technical effectiveness [TE], point of decreasing TE [PDTE]) and physiological parameters (maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), first and second ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2)) were recorded. We found a significant relationship between PDTE and VT2 (r = 0.365, P <0.05) and between TE and VO2max (r = 0.459, P <0.01). In conclusion, players with a better aerobic profile tended to get better results in terms of TE and showed a tendency to decrease TE from the appearance of VT2 (AU)

Revisión sistemática de la investigación sobre la enseñanza del tenis / Revisão sistemática da pesquisa sobre ensino de tênis / Systematic review of research on teaching tennis

El presente trabajo consiste en una revisión sistemática sobre los estudios relacionados con la enseñanza del tenis. Se identifican, categorizan y analizan los artículos señalando sus características y sintetizando los principales temas de investigación y su contenido. Para ello, se ha consultado dos de las bases de datos con mayor reconocimiento internacional, como son Scopus y Web of Science. Se seleccionaron un total de 87 artículos científicos. Los resultados muestran aspectos cuantitativos como pueden ser la autoría de los artículos, las revistas donde han sido publicados, el tipo de investigación, las técnicas de recogida de datos utilizadas o los temas de investigación. Además, se hace un análisis cualitativo centrado en el contenido de los 5 temas identificados, que son: la ejecución de las habilidades específicas del tenis y la progresión en la dificultad de su aprendizaje, el feedback del profesorado y las directrices metodológicas en la enseñanza de la técnica del tenis, el uso de recursos tecnológicos en la enseñanza de las habilidades técnicas, el entrenamiento psicológico para la mejora de la ejecución, y la anticipación perceptiva, la toma de decisiones y el contexto de juego. Finalmente, entre las conclusiones, se presentan algunas orientaciones prácticas derivadas de los resultados de las investigaciones revisadas que pueden contribuir a la mejora de la enseñanza del tenis (AU)

The present work consists of a systematic review of studies related to training tennis. The articles are identified, categorized and analyzed pointing out their characteristics and synthesizing the main topics and their content. In order to do this, we have looked at two of the databases with greater international recognition, Scopus and Web of Science. A total of 87 scientific articles were selected. The results show quantitative aspects such as the authorship of the articles, the magazines where the articles have been published, the type of research, the techniques used for collecting data or the main research topics. In addition, the work includes a qualitative analysis focused on the content of the 5 themes identified: the implementation of specific tennis skills and the progression in the difficulty of learning tennis, teacher’s feedback and methodological guidelines used for training tennis, the use of technological resources in teaching technical skills, psychological training to improve performance, and perceptual anticipation, decision - making and game context. Finally, the work concludes describing some practical guidelines derived from the results of the research that can contribute to the improvement of training tennis (AU)

O presente trabalho consiste em uma revisão sistemática sobre estudos relacionados com o ensino do tênis. Os artigos são identificados, categorizados e analisados, ressaltando-se suas características, e sintetizando-se os principais temas de investigação e conteúdo. Para isso, foram consultadas as bases de dados com maior reconhecimento internacional, como Scopus e Web of Science. Foi selecionado um total de 87 artigos científicos. Os resultados demonstram aspectos quantitativos como podem ser a autoria dos artigos, as revistas onde foram publicados, o tipo de investigação, as técnicas de compilação de dados ou os temas de investigação. Além disso, foi feita uma análise qualitativa centrada no conteúdo dos cinco temas identificados: a execução das habilidades específicas do tênis e a progressão da dificuldade de sua aprendizagem, o feedback do professorado e as diretrizes metodológicas no ensino técnico do tênis, o uso de recursos tecnológicos no ensino de habilidades técnicas, o treinamento psicológico para a melhoria da sua execução, e a antecipação perceptiva, a tomada de decisões e o contexto do jogo. Finalmente, entre as conclusões, se apresentam algumas orientações práticas derivadas dos resultados das investigações revisadas que podem contribuir para a melhora do ensino do tênis (AU)

Implementation of Motor Imagery during Specific Aerobic Training Session in Young Tennis Players.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of implementing motor imagery (MI) during specific tennis high intensity intermittent training (HIIT) sessions on groundstroke performance in young elite tennis players. Stroke accuracy and ball velocity of forehand and backhand drives were evaluated in ten young tennis players, immediately before and after having randomly performed two HIIT sessions. One session included MI exercises during the recovery phases, while the other included verbal encouragements for physical efforts and served as control condition. Results revealed that similar cardiac demand was observed during both sessions, while implementing MI maintained groundstroke accuracy. Embedding MI during HIIT enabled the development of physical fitness and the preservation of stroke performance. These findings bring new insight to tennis and conditioning coaches in order to fulfil the benefits of specific playing HIIT sessions, and therefore to optimise the training time.

Another day, another tennis coaching intervention, but does this one do what coaches purport?

A proficient serve is critical to successful tennis performance, and consequently coaches and players devote considerable time refining this stroke. In so doing, a wide variety of interventions are used or trialled, generally with very little empirical support. This study examined the efficacy of a commonly used service intervention, where players focus on exaggerating their finish (arabesque) position to promote specific changes in lower limb and trunk kinematics. The kinematics of eight high-performance junior players hitting flat serves were compared to the acute changes in kinematics elicited by the arabesque follow through position on serves using a 10-camera VICON MX motion analysis system. The significantly greater front (landing leg) hip flexion (p < 0.05) and forward trunk flexion (p < 0.05) confirmed the more exaggerated arabesque landing position following the arabesque instruction. The arabesque instruction resulted in increased frontal plane trunk range of motion and peak angular velocity in the forward swing, and increased leg drive during the drive phase. Practically, the results support the use of the arabesque instruction, effectively promoting the desired acute changes in trunk kinematics (i.e. increased frontal plane trunk rotation angular velocity) and leg drive (i.e. increased back knee extension angular velocity and front/back vertical hip velocity).

Empirical links between instruction with teaching tools and the hierarchical model of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in a Korean college tennis class.

The objective of this study was to demonstrate the sequential process (i.e., social factors→mediators→motivation→consequences) underlying the Hierarchical Model of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation at the contextual level in instruction using three teaching tools, modified balls, a high net, and colored balls and cones in a college-level tennis class in South Korea. 126 students enrolled in a 15-week tennis class participated in the study. The results indicate that the three teaching tools positively affected students' perceived competence, with perceived competence's beta on intrinsic motivation equal to 0.45. Intrinsic motivation was found to reduce negative affect further by -0.33, thereby demonstrating the sequential process of the Hierarchical Model of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation.

Modifying equipment in early skill development: a tennis perspective.

PURPOSE: The International Tennis Federation recently launched a worldwide campaign advocating the use of equipment scaling for children learning to play tennis. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence that varying racquet sizes and ball compressions had on children's ability to play a forehand groundstroke. METHOD: This was a quantitative repeated-measures design experiment. Children were required to perform a forehand hitting task using each of 9 combinations of tennis racquets and balls (i.e., 3 racquet sizes x 3 ball compressions). Children's hitting performance was measured using a points system. The aim for the children was to score as many points as possible. Hitting technique was measured via video replay. RESULTS: Hitting performance was best when the smallest racquet combined with the ball with the least compression was used. The ball with the least compression also promoted 2 technique benefits: swinging the racquet from low to high and striking the ball in front and to the side of the body. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated the benefits for young children playing with scaled racquets and low-compression balls. The findings are discussed with regards to their relevance to theories of skill acquisition.

Visual- spatial capacity: gender and sport differences in young volleyball and tennis athletes and non-athletes.

BACKGROUND: In the general population visual-spatial ability is better in males, due to the influence of biological and socio-cultural factors. We know that sport activity improves motor skills. The aim of this work is to determine if these gender differences exist in young athletes. The orientation test described by Terzi and standardized by Cesaroni, used to measure spatial ability, was carried out on 60 volleyball or 60 tennis athletes as well as on 60 non-sporting subjects. RESULTS: The data analysis revealed a worse performance for non-athletes in comparison with athletes in both components of test (p < 0.0001; p = 0.04), with no differences between the volleyball and tennis groups. As far as gender comparison is concerned, as expected in the non- sport group the males presented better values (p < 0.001; p = 0.006). However in both sports groups there weren't any gender differences in either part of the test (p = 0.18; p = 0.056). CONCLUSIONS: These results confirm that during athletic preparation in volleyball and tennis the specific training is able to develop spatial ability. Besides, boys and girls have similar performance demands and training experience. It appears that this specific training could be responsible for modifying gender differences in performance of spatial ability during adolescence.

Validade e reprodutibilidade de receptores para o GPS em relação à distância percorrida / Validez y reproducibilidad de receptores GPS en relación de la distancia recorrida

Objetivo. El presente estudio evaluó la validez y reproducibilidad de dos modelos de receptores para el Global Positioning System (GPS). La validez fue evaluada comparando la distancia registrada por los receptores con la distancia conocida de estos trayectos. Método. Seis jóvenes tenistas (177,6 ± 6,2 cm; 76,6 ± 3,2 kg) recorrieron tres trayectos: 1) 100 m en la pista de atletismo (número de "disparos" = 120); 2) 400 m en la pista de atletismo (número de "disparos" = 60) y 3) 100 m con cambios de dirección (número de "disparos" = 120), utilizando los equipos Garmin© Forerunner 405 y Polar© RS800. Resultados. En los trayectos sin cambios de dirección (100 y 400 m), a través de la ANOVA two way (distancia y velocidad) no se detectaron diferencias entre la distancia conocida y las distancias registradas por los receptores analizados (p > 0,05). En el trayecto de 100 m con cambios de dirección, se observaron diferencias entre la distancia conocida y las registradas tanto por el Polar© RS800 como por el Garmin© Forerunner 405 (p < 0,05). También se verificó la diferencia en las distancias registradas por el Polar® RS800 y por el Garmin© Forerunner 405 para el trayecto realizado con cambios de dirección (p < 0,05). Conclusión. A través de los datos, se puede afirmar que los receptores para GPS evaluados presentaron un nivel aceptable de precisión para distancias recorridas sin cambios de dirección, sin embargo, la precisión de estos equipos en trayectos con cambios de dirección fue limitada (AU)

Objective. The present study evaluated the reproducibility and validity of two models of receivers for the Global Positioning System (GPS). Validity was assessed by comparing the distance recorded by the GPS receivers with the known distance. Method. Six young players (177.6 ± 6.2 cm; 76.6 ± 3.2 kg) performed three routes with different characteristics: 1) 100 m in the athletics track (number of "sprints" = 120); 2) 400 m in the athletics track (number of "sprints" = 60) and 3) 100 m with changes of direction (number of "sprints" = 120), using equipment Garmin© Forerunner 405 and Polar© RS800. Results. Regarding linear routes (100 and 400 m), no differences were detected using ANOVA two-way (distance and speed) between the known distance and distance recorded by GPS receivers analyzed (p > 0.05). Regarding non-linear route of, significant differences were observed between the known distance and recorded distance by the GPS receivers (p < 0.05). There was also a significant difference between the distance recorded by Polar© RS800 and Garmin© Forerunner 405 for the non-linear route (p < 0.05). Analysis of the limits of agreement reinforces the limitation of equipment in relation to accuracy for the non-linear route. Conclusion. These data suggest that the GPS receivers evaluated showed acceptable level of accuracy for linear routes, however, the accuracy of such devices on non-linear routes was limited (AU)

Effects of two different resistance-training programs on mean tennis-serve velocity in adolescents.

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the transferability of 2 different resistance training protocols on service velocity and its precision consistency in junior tennis players. Thirty-six male athletes (15.03 ± 1.64 years) were randomly assigned to a machine-based resistance-training group (RG, n = 12), a plyometric training group (PG, n = 12), and a control group (CG, n = 12). For a period of 8 weeks, both intervention groups resistance trained 2 days per week in addition to their regular tennis training, whereas the CG had no extra training. Mean service velocity over 20 maximum-velocity serves increased significantly more in PG (3.78%; p < .05) when compared with CG, whereas no such changes could be found in the RG (1.18%; p > .05). Service precision did not change from pre- to posttest in all three groups (p > .05). Only the plyometric training program tested, improved mean service velocity over 20 maximum-velocity serves in junior tennis players but did not affect service precision.

An examination of preactivity and postactivity flexibility practices of National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I tennis coaches.

The purpose of this study was to determine if National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I men's tennis programs are in compliance with suggested current preactivity and postactivity stretching protocols. Questionnaires were sent to NCAA Division I men's tennis programs in the USA. Seventy-six coaches (73 men and 3 women) participated in the study. The results of the Chi-Square analysis suggest that the number of years of head coaching experience had a significant relationship with the preactivity stretching routines employed by coaches (p = 0.029). A significant difference was found between preactivity stretching routines and the key sources of influence for the foundation of knowledge regarding preactivity stretching (p = 0.012). Some results indicate that many tennis coaches do not use current suggested practices for preactivity stretching. The results of this study indicate that certification may influence how well research guidelines are followed. Further research is needed to delineate how these factors affect coaching decisions.

Panorámica de las teorías y métodos de investigación en torno a la toma de decisiones en el tenis / An overview of theories and research methods on decision making in tennis

En esta revisión teórica y metodológica sobre la toma de decisiones en el tenis, buscamos exponer distintas aproximaciones explicativas del proceso decisional, fundamentadas en dos perspectivas: la psicología cognitiva y la psicología ecológica. Dentro del planteamiento de la psicología cognitiva, en base a los modelos de procesamiento de la información, nos centramos en la importancia de los comportamientos visuales y las estrategias perceptivas como mediadores de habilidades de anticipación y de decisión en el tenis, así como otros conceptos relacionados, como la atención o la agudeza visual. Posteriormente se explican otras teorías cognitivas basadas en las representaciones mentales y el desarrollo de distintos tipos de memoria como elemento central y determinante de la toma de decisiones. El segundo enfoque aborda la toma de decisiones desde la psicología ecológica, realizando una aproximación a la toma de decisiones en tenis en torno a la dinámica ecológica, planteando la importancia del entorno y los constraints, y entendiendo el tenis como un sistema no-lineal, dinámico y auto-organizado. Abordamos igualmente distintas aproximaciones metodológicas de evaluación de la toma de decisiones en el tenis, independientemente del marco teórico que las sustenta. Exponemos distintas formas de evaluar la toma de decisiones a través de análisis de protocolos verbales y cuestionarios, análisis observacional, análisis de variables cinemáticas, y también análisis perceptivos. Por último, concluimos la necesidad de superar algunas limitaciones para estudiar la toma de decisiones de una forma global, donde la toma de decisiones se vincule directamente a las acciones de juego(AU)

In this theoretical and methodological review of decision making in tennis, we describe some of the explanatory theories of the decisional process by using two approaches: cognitive psychology and ecological psychology. Within the former approach, based on models of information processing, we focus on the importance of visual and perceptual behaviour as mediators of anticipation and decision-making skills in tennis, as well as related concepts such as attention and visual acuity. Subsequently, we explain other cognitive theories based on mental representations and the development of different types of knowledge and memory as a central and decisive component in decision making. The latter approach describes decision making on the basis of ecological psychology, using a decision making approach to the ecological dynamics, heightening the importance of the setting and constraints and understanding tennis as a non-linear, dynamic and self-organized system. We discuss various methodological approaches for evaluating decisions in tennis, regardless of the framework that sustains them. We present different ways of evaluating the decision-making process by analysing verbal protocols and questionnaires, observational analysis, kinematic variables analysis and perceptive analysis. Finally, we conclude by presenting the need to overcome several limitations and study decision making in a holistic manner in which decision making is linked directly to game action(AU)

A six-week neuromuscular training program for competitive junior tennis players.

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a tennis-specific training program on improving neuromuscular indices in competitive junior players. Tennis is a demanding sport because it requires speed, agility, explosive power, and aerobic conditioning along with the ability to react and anticipate quickly, and there are limited studies that evaluate these indices in young players after a multiweek training program. The program designed for this study implemented the essential components of a previously published neuromuscular training program and also included exercises designed to improve dynamic balance, agility, speed, and strength. Fifteen junior tennis players (10 girls, 5 boys; mean age, 13.0 +/- 1.5 years) who routinely participated in local tournaments and high-school teams participated in the 6-week supervised program. Training was conducted 3 times a week, with sessions lasting 1.5 hours that included a dynamic warm-up, plyometric and jump training, strength training (lower extremity, upper extremity, core), tennis-specific drills, and flexibility. After training, statistically significant improvements and large-to-moderate effect sizes were found in the single-leg triple crossover hop for both legs (p < 0.05), the baseline forehand (p = 0.006) and backhand (p = 0.0008) tests, the service line (p = 0.0009) test, the 1-court suicide (p < 0.0001), the 2-court suicide (p = 0.02), and the abdominal endurance test (p = 0.01). Mean improvements between pretrain and posttrain test sessions were 15% for the single-leg triple crossover hop, 10-11% for the baseline tests, 18% for the service line test, 21% for the 1-court suicide, 10% for the 2-court suicide, and 76% for the abdominal endurance test. No athlete sustained an injury or developed an overuse syndrome as a result of the training program. The results demonstrate that this program is feasible, low in cost, and appears to be effective in improving the majority of neuromuscular indices tested. We accomplished our goal of developing training and testing procedures that could all be performed on the tennis court.

Habilidades especializadas do tênis: um estudo de intervenção na iniciação esportiva com crianças escolares / Tennis specialized skills: a beginning sport intervention study with school children

O objetivo desta pesquisa, de delineamento quase-experimental e correlacional, foi verificar a influência de um Programa de Iniciação ao Tênis (PIT) com duas abordagens, Clássica (AC) e de Contexto Motivacional para a Maestria (AM), no desempenho de habilidades motoras especializadas do Tênis (HMET) e investigar as associações entre o desenvolvimento das habilidades especializadas e as fundamentais. Participaram do estudo 61 crianças (29 meninas e 32 meninos), com idades de seis a 12 anos (M = 9,4), sendo 30 crianças da AC e 31 crianças da AM. Para as avaliações das crianças foram utilizados o Test of Gross Motor Development-2 (TGMD-2) e o instrumento de Habilidades Motoras Especializadas do Tênis (HMET). O PIT foi desenvolvido em 26 semanas, implementando, para a AM os pressupostos da estrutura TARGET e do Sport Education Model e para a AC os modelos clássicos de aprendizagem do Tênis. Os resultados indicaram que 1) mudanças positivas e significantes (p < 0,01) nas HMET para todas as crianças; 2) interação não significante da faixa etária (p = 0,519) e do gênero (p = 0,24) nas HMET; 3) associação restrita a locomoção no pós teste entre habilidades especializadas e fundamentais para o grupo da maestria. A implementação de um Programa de Iniciação ao Tênis, baseado em propostas metodológicas eficazes e condizentes com as necessidades reais dos participantes, promove ganhos motores que contribuem para o desenvolvimento infantil.

The purpose of the present study, with a quasi-experimental and correlational design, was to verify the influence of a Beginning Tennis Program (BTP) with two approaches - the Classical approach (CA) and the Mastery Motivational Climate approach (MA) - on the development of specialized tennis motor skills (STMS) and the associations between the specialized skills and fundamental skills. The participantes were 61 children (29 girls and 32 boys), aged 6-12 yr. (M = 9.4). Thirty children were submitted to the CA and 31 to the MA. The children were assessed using the Test of Gross Motor Development-2 (TGMD-2) and the Specialized Tennis Motor Skills instrument. The BTP was carried out in 26 weeks and implemented for MA the assumptions of the TARGET structure and the Sport Education Model, and for CA the classical models for tennis learning. Results indicated that 1) all children showed positive and significant changes (p < 0.01) in STMS; 2) there was a non significant interaction of age group (p = 0.519) and gender (p = 0.24) on STMS; 3) a restrict association in the post test between locomotor skills and specialized skills for the Mastery group. The implementation of a Beginning Tennis Program based on effective methodological proposals that are suitable for the participants' real needs fosters motor gains that reinforce children development.

Un estudio sobre indicios perceptivos para el resto en el servicio de tenis / A study on perceptual cues in returning tennis serves

Mediante análisis cinemático, han sido estudiados indicios perceptivos observables en el lanzamiento de lapelota, durante el servicio de tenis, para facilitar la respuesta anticipada de la jugadora que está al resto. Ocho profesionales,todas ellas mujeres (m = 67.13, SD = 29.38 del WTA ranking), fueron participantes del estudio en competición oficial. Elresultado principal del análisis multivariante, sobre doce variables espaciales y temporales, fue que existe una relación entreel vuelo de la pelota y la profundidad del servicio. Los valores cuantitativos obtenidos son: R = .917 y R2= .840 (F (9, 96) =56.007, p <.000), con β = 1.040 (p < .001) para el momento en que la servidora suelta la pelota. Este resultado concretoseñala la relevancia temática del concepto de “indicio perceptivo” para conseguir respuestas más rápidas y ajustadas entenis y otros deportes donde sea posible el estudio del contrario (AU)

Using a kinematic analysis, perceptual cues were studied through observing the ball toss in tennis serves inorder to facilitate the receiver’s anticipated response. Eight female professionals (m = 67.13, SD = 29.38 WTA ranking)participated in the study during an official competition. The main result of the multivariate analysis, which involved twelvespace and time variables, revealed a relationship between ball tossing and the depth of the serve. The quantitative valuesobtained were: R = .917 y R2= .840 (F (9, 96) = 56.007, p <.000), with β = 1.040 (p < .001) for the times in which theplayer released the ball. This specific result underscores the relevance of the concept of “perceptual cues” to achieve fasterand more accurate responses in tennis and also in other sports in which it is possible to study the opponent (AU)

The Sony Ericsson WTA Tour 10 year age eligibility and professional development review.

Concerns have long existed over the participation of adolescent athletes in professional sports. In 2004, the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour (WTA Tour) commissioned a Professional Development Advisory Panel (PDAP) to evaluate the WTA Tour's age eligibility rule (AER) and professional development programmes (PDPs) for female tennis players since their inception in 1995. More than 75% of the 628 respondents supported the principles of the AER, and 90% indicated a need for PDPs. Statistical analysis of WTA Tour players' careers found that premature retirements (players leaving the Tour at or before age 21) decreased significantly from 7% before the AER to less than 1% afterward, and median career length increased by 43%. The PDAP recommends that the WTA Tour continues a phased-in, developmentally appropriate AER, enhances the PDPs, and works with other sport governing bodies to coordinate rules and programmes at earlier ages to aid the transition of adolescents into adult sports.