Fitness testing in padel: Performance differences according to players’ competitive level

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2019Source: Science & SportsAuthor(s): J. Courel-Ibáñez, J.J. Herrera-GálvezSummaryOur purposes were to examine the fitness characteristics of padel players and to determine differences in physical performance regarding players’ competitive level. Eighteen non-professional male padel players were divided according to their competitive level (low-level vs. high-level). Players completed a 2-days evaluation process including body composition, groundstroke padel accuracy, upper body power, handgrip strength, dynamic balance, agility and speed and cardiovascular fitness. Heart rate recovery after 60 s and dynamic balanced were identified as the most determinant factors in padel performance. High-level players reported a better heart rate recovery after 60 s. Low-level players with better heart rate recovery showed better groundstroke accuracy. Dynamic balance in anterior directions was alarmingly poor in both high- and low-level players (mean < 75 cm). Plus, high-level players reported worse balance in posteromedial directions. The balance deficits reported may increase injury risk; therefore, it is encouraged to incorporate lower limb strengthening and balance exercises in padel training routines. Furthermore, improvements on intermittent recovery capacity appear to be essential for padel performance.RésuméNotre objectif était d’examiner les caractéristiques physiques des joueurs de padel et de déterminer...
Source: Science and Sports - Category: Sports Medicine Source Type: research