A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN CROSS AND DOWN-THE-LINE FOREHAND

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to clarify the mechanics involved in making two different shots, namely, cross (C) and down-the-line (D), under a two-choice reaction condition in soft-tennis. Using the images from two high-speed cameras, forehand drive motions under these conditions were analyzed with the direct linear transformation procedure. The authors considered that for the selected objects of analysis, the experimental environment significantly affected the actions. Anatomical rotations of the upper extremity and center of gravity (COG) of the subjects during forehand motions were compared between C and D. Some differences were observed in the external rotation of the shoulder and the lateral component of COG. The results were discussed from the perspective of the way in which expert players made ball-racket contact under the choice reaction condition. This was considered to be a high time-pressure condition.