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Review
. 2014 Apr;48 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):i22-31.
doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2013-093152.

Fitness testing of tennis players: how valuable is it?

Jaime Fernandez-Fernandez  1 , Alexander Ulbricht, Alexander Ferrauti
Affiliations
Free PMC article
Review

Fitness testing of tennis players: how valuable is it?

Jaime Fernandez-Fernandez et al. Br J Sports Med. 2014 Apr.
Free PMC article

Abstract

In tennis, sport-specific technical skills are predominant factors, although a complex profile of physical performance factors is also required. The fitness test batteries assist in examining tennis players' capabilities for performance at different levels in the laboratory as well as in the field, in the junior or elite level. While laboratory tests can be, and are, used to evaluate basic performance characteristics of athletes in most individual sports, in a more specific approach, field-based methods are better suited to the demands of complex intermittent sports like tennis. A regular test battery performed at different periods of the year allows to obtain an individual's performance profile, as well as the ability to prescribe individual training interventions. Thus, the aim of the present review was to describe and evaluate the different physical tests recommended and used by practitioners, sports scientists and institutions (national tennis federations).

Keywords: Aerobic Fitness/Vo2 Max; Assessing Validity and Reliability of Test of Physiological Parameters; Evaluation; Strength Isometric Isokinetic.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Schematic representation of the sport-specific training optimisation model.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Schematic setting for a tennis-specific endurance field test.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Progressive test design with the beep time intervals. BH, backhand; FH, forehand.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Examples of medicine ball throws (overhead throw (pictures 1 and 2) and forehand side throw (picture 3)).
Figure 5
Figure 5
A schematic representation of the serve performance test and target area dimensions.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Planned and reactive agility test setup from Cooke et al. Light cells: C, contact mat; P, player.
Figure 7
Figure 7
Tennis-specific sprint test. Light cells: BP, ball pendulum; P, player; SP, signal panel.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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