52 research outputs found
Gender Differences in Kinematic Parameters of Topspin Forehand and Backhand in Table Tennis
Background: The identification of gender dierences in kinematics and coordination of
movement in dierent body segments in sports may improve the training process by emphasizing
the necessity of its dierentiation, and consequently individualization, developing, and improving
the technique in women and men. Indicating dierences can also help in determining the risk
of injury in order to prevent from them by diversifying training programs. However, there is no
information regarding this problem in the existing literature pertaining to table tennis. Therefore,
the aim of the study was to evaluate the dierences in the values of selected angular and kinematic
parameters during topspin forehand and topspin backhand shots between male and female table
tennis players. Methods: Six male and six female advanced table tennis players performed topspin
forehand and topspin backhand shots, both receiving a backspin ball. The angular parameters in
four events (ready position, backswing, maximum acceleration, and forward) at chosen joints as
well as the maximal acceleration of the playing hand were measured, using the myoMotion system,
and were compared between male and female players. Results: Significant dierences (p 0.05)
were found in the magnitude of angular parameters and maximum hand acceleration between
men and women. The movement pattern of topspin strokes performed by men takes into account,
more than that in the case of women, movements that use large muscle groups and large joints
(hip joints, trunk joints, shoulder joints in extension, and flexion). The dierence in the values of
maximal acceleration reached almost 50 m/s2 in topspin forehand (p < 0.01) and 20 m/s2 in backhand
(p < 0.01). Conclusions: Dierentiation of movement patterns can be a manifestation of movement
optimization due to anthropological dierences and limitations. The dierences in the values of
maximal acceleration suggest that women could use both sides to perform a topspin attack against the
backspin ball, while men should seek opportunities to make a stronger shot with a forehand topspin
Personality Traits and Motives in Table Tennis Players
This study aims to investigate table tennis players’ personality traits and motives in the
frame of the Big Five personality model and the self-determination theory (SDT) of motivation. A total
of 447 Italian table tennis players ranging in level of play between the regional and international levels
participated in the study. They completed a self-report questionnaire measuring their personality
traits and motives to play table tennis. Findings showed conscientiousness as the most distinctive
trait of table tennis players. No differences were detected between elite and non-elite players. Table
tennis players are mainly motivated by factors belonging to the intrinsic pole of the self-determination
motivational continuum. External reinforcements represent a minimal incentive to play this sport
both for elite and non-elite athletes. The current findings help clarify the relationships between
personality traits, playing certain types of sports, and achieving different performance levels. We
conclude by outlining implications for applied sport psychology
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