How Does Fatigue Impact Ankle Flexor Activity and Ground Reaction Forces in Elite Table Tennis Players?
- Julian Simpson
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
How Does Fatigue Impact Ankle Flexor Activity and Ground Reaction Forces in Elite Table Tennis Players?
Table tennis, categorized as a reaction sport, exemplifies this relationship due to its fast-paced nature, requiring players to react within fractions of a second to the ball’s speed and trajectory. The game demands not only quick reflexes but also exceptional hand-eye coordination, as players must constantly anticipate their opponent's moves and respond accordingly.
This rapid exchange of shots can lead to intense rallies, where the ability to read the opponent's body language and predict the ball's path becomes crucial. Moreover, the strategic placement of shots and the use of spin add layers of complexity, making split-second decisions vital for success.
The shoulder was the most common injured area among top table tennis players, with approximately 20% of reported injuries occurring in the shoulder. This statistic is particularly relevant as the shoulder joint is heavily involved in the forehand pull technique, where its kinematics and dynamics significantly impact the quality of the shot.
The repetitive nature of the forehand stroke places immense stress on the shoulder, leading to potential overuse injuries. Furthermore, the intricate coordination required between the shoulder, elbow, and wrist during powerful strokes can exacerbate the risk of injury, especially if players do not maintain proper technique or sufficient conditioning. Understanding the biomechanics of shoulder movement in table tennis is essential for developing effective training and rehabilitation strategies.
Prolonged training sessions may selectively strengthen the muscles located in front of the shoulder joint, including the subscapularis, pectoralis major, and deltoid, contributing to the risk of injury. While strengthening these muscles is crucial for performance, an imbalance can occur if the muscles in the posterior shoulder, such as the rotator cuff, are neglected. This imbalance can lead to altered shoulder mechanics, increasing the likelihood of injuries such as tendinitis or rotator cuff tears. Therefore, it is essential for athletes to incorporate a well-rounded strength training program that addresses all muscle groups surrounding the shoulder joint, ensuring optimal stability and functionality.
Studies have shown that both mental and muscle fatigue can impact performance and affect the perception of effort during physical activities. Mental fatigue can diminish concentration, reduce motivation, and impair decision-making abilities, all of which are critical in high-stakes competitions like table tennis. On the other hand, muscle fatigue can lead to decreased strength and endurance, making it difficult for athletes to maintain their performance levels throughout a match. This dual impact of fatigue underscores the importance of mental resilience and physical conditioning in achieving peak performance.
When athletes experience fatigue, the muscle activity of the plantarflexion, specifically the soleus (SOL) and gastrocnemius (GL) muscles, may negatively impact their ability to achieve complete heel lift-off during movements. This limitation can hinder an athlete's overall agility and speed, which are essential components in sports requiring quick directional changes, such as table tennis. The inability to perform effective heel lift-off can also affect balance and stability, further compromising performance during critical moments of play.
Together, the SOL and GL generate the force required to push off the ground and propel the body forward during activities such as walking, running, and jumping. The efficiency of this push-off is vital for maintaining momentum and executing explosive movements, which are often necessary in competitive sports. In table tennis, the ability to quickly reposition oneself and respond to the ball can significantly influence the outcome of a rally. Therefore, maintaining optimal function and strength in these muscle groups is essential for athletes aiming to enhance their performance and reduce the risk of injury.
The research in 2025 found that people who are mentally and physically fatigued have less sports performance and struggle with ankle movement due to the slow contractability of the ankle muscles. This slow contractibility can lead to delayed reactions and a reduction in overall power output, which is critical in sports where speed and agility are paramount. As athletes push their limits, understanding the interplay between mental and physical fatigue becomes increasingly important, as it can inform training regimens and recovery strategies designed to optimize performance while minimising the risk of injury.
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Lu Y, Wang J, Ren Y, Ren J. Effects of Fatigue on Ankle Flexor Activity and Ground Reaction Forces in Elite Table Tennis Players. Sensors (Basel). 2024 Oct 10;24(20):6521. doi: 10.3390/s24206521. PMID: 39460001; PMCID: PMC11511066.
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