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Tennis is an intermittent activity interposed with short bouts (3–10 s) of high-intensity and light activity or rest (20–25 s) for a period of time (1–5 h) (Périard 2014). Repeating this high-intensity movement is noticeable by the development of fatigue and sub maximal performances. From a neuromuscular perspective, fatigue is defined as an exercise-induced decrement in the capacity to produce/maintain maximal force or power (Périard 2014). Fatigue is a complex topic, with contributions from the brain (central fatigue) and muscles (peripheral fatigue). Neuromuscular function decreases during and following (3 h) match-play tennis in different temperate conditions. It was shown that maximal strength of the knee extensors (KE) and plantar flexors (PF) decreases during short maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVCs). This associates with a decrease in voluntary muscle activation (VA), adjustments in contractile function and the development of low-frequency fatigue, depending on the muscle group.
Périard (2014) analyzed the impairments in lower limb maximal strength and voluntary activation (VA) following match-play tennis in hot and cool conditions. Torque and VA were evaluated during brief (5 s) and sustained (20 s) maximal voluntary isometric contractions of the knee extensors (KE) and plantar flexors (PF) in 12 male tennis players before (pre) and after (post, 24 h and 48 h) ~115 min of play in hot (~37°C) and cool (~22°C) conditions.
Périard JD, Girard O, Racinais S. Neuromuscular adjustments of the knee extensors and plantar flexors following match-play tennis in the heat. Br J Sports Med. 2014 Apr;48 Suppl 1:i45-i51.
Written by Chris Barber, CPT