Jez Green-Cutting Edge Tennis Movement-advanced tennis footwork techniques

Kinesthetics in Movement

Dynamic movement is inextricably linked to successful sports performance. Different types of movement need to be performed at different speeds, at different angles and with minimal risk of injury. This article aims to show the fundamental biomechanics of the body and the specific muscle group dysfunction that can cause muscle imbalances, which in turn can lead to uncoordinated and compromised muscle action.

Tennis players for example are known to have poor hip flexibility which can reduce pelvic control and lead to lower back stress. Also poor scapula stabilisation and tight pectorals and internal rotators can inhibit efficient stroke production and cause overuse injuries in the shoulder joint.

The following article the common problems associated with specific areas of the body and the resulting kinesthetic muscle imbalance.

BACK	Tight	Weak
Asymmetrical Weight Shifting	Gastroc Soleus Bicep Femoris Adductors Iliopsoas Piriformis IT Band	Glute Medius Glute Maximus Transversus Abdominus Multifidius
Lumbar Flexion	External Oblique Rectus Abdominus Hamstrings	Glute Medius Glute Maximus Transversus Abdominus Multifidius
Lumbar Extension	Iliopsoas Rectus Femoris Erector Spinae Latissimus Dorsi	Glute Medius Glute Maximus Transversus Abdominus Multifidius

LOWER BODY	Tight	Weak
Feet Flatten	Gastroc Peroneals	Glute Medius Anterior Tibialis Posterier Tibialis
Feet Externally Rotated	Soleus Bicep Femoris Piriformis	Glute Medius
Knees Adduct	Adductors IT Band	Glute Medius Glute Maximus
Knees Abduct	Bicep Femoris Iliopsoas Piriformis	Glute Medius Glute Maximus

UPPER BODY	Tight	Weak
Arms Forward When Overhead	Latissimus Dorsi Pectoralis Major	Mid/Lower Trapezius
Shoulder Blade Abducted	Upper Trap Levator Scapulae Pectoralis Major/Minor	Rhomboids Mid/Lower Trapezius
Shoulder Blade Protracted	Latissimus Dorsi Pectoralis Major/Minor	Rhomboids Mid/Lower Trapezius Teres Minor Infra Spinatus
Shoulder Blade Elevated (Winging)	Upper Trapezius Levator Scapulae	Lower Trapezius

By Jez Green BSc