Investigating the Biomechanics behind Tennis Strokes
Investigating the Biomechanics behind Tennis Strokes
About Me
My name is Jordan Doi, a Biology major, checkmater, and tennis player from Mililani, HI. On campus, there will be days when, if you see me, you will see me so frequently it’s almost like deja vu. Meanwhile, there will also be days when my presence is the same diameter as the flu. As I come and go, you know there’s a significant impact that’s cooking in the kitchen when I show. As an aspiring optometrist, I am grateful that Macalester has provided me with the tools and resources to become the best version of myself. Beyond my remaining time, I plan to inspire others to challenge themselves to see how far they can climb.
Abstract
Forehand and backhand groundstrokes are two of the most common tennis strokes used in the game. To maximize the power and effectiveness of groundstrokes, understanding the kinetic chain and muscle activation patterns behind these tennis strokes will exponentially improve a tennis player's performance. This review examines existing biomechanical research to analyze the classification and applications of muscle groups in the forehand and backhand. Through extensive research from peer-reviewed biomechanical studies, electromyography (EMG) studies, sport science books, and 11 years of national-level competitive tennis, this poster was compiled into the simplest biological format for audiences of any skill level. These studies have shown that tennis players always store energy from the legs, transfer energy up the torso, and finish with a whip-like arm. A surprising conclusion that the majority of sources also agreed upon is that the backhand would be the easiest groundstroke to master as a beginner because of the increased distribution of muscle groups utilized. As the current #1 singles and doubles player at Macalester, I hope this review’s biomechanical insight becomes a stepping stone to accelerate your progression as a tennis player.