BIOMECHANICS & INJURY PREVENTION

Vida Tennis Australia is the leader in its field when we talk about tennis technique. Our team of high performance tennis coach's continues to deliver the latest tennis knowledge to our students. In conjunction with our fully qualified biomechanist we are able to deliver improved stroke production from the elite to the beginner. It is our policy that no player will ever stop developing due to technical deficiency. In order to achieve the ideal position for each shot you must first establish the flaws in your current technique. This is undertaken using video capturing and computer analysis to formulate a visual learning aid. From this analysis of each shot that can then be utilized by your coach in your on court sessions.

The Biomechanical Program runs in conjunction with our Injury Prevention Program. This program not only minimizes the risk for injury but also aids physical development in testing, co-ordination testing, stability evaluationa nd functional testing of muscle combinations. As a result each person will receive a summary sheet with results and recommendations. From this summary each person will receive an exercise progrm specific for their needs. Each program runs for ten weeks with a follow up at the conclusion and summary of changes.

PRINCIPLES OF BIOMECHANICS & INJURY PREVENTION

The biomechanics of the tennis program is dedicated to the fundamental principles and biomechanics of the production of different strokes involved in the game of tennis. Biomechanics of tennis relies on the equal distribution of force that begins at the base and works up to shot impact. Force is generated by fluent body movement. The body works as a chain. For every action there is a systematic reaction that begins with the body parts larger in size and heavier in mass, initiating movement. Tennis requires sequenced activation of muscles and movement of bones and joints to achieve the motions, positions, and velocities for efficiency in stroke production. This sequencing is known as the KINETIC CHAIN. Proper sequencing results in efficient force and motion production. The kinetic chain is reliant on the even flow of stress throughout the body. Starting as a simple action, it becomes more complex as more links are added tot he chain in order to fulfill the required movement.

Biomechanics of injury prevention program is not intended as a substitute for appropriate treatment for injuries. Its purpose is to identify and analyse muscle activation sequences and co-ordination imbalances in the body that play a critical role in joint stability, specifically for tennis players. Instabilities and dysfunctional activation patterns result from a vast array of factors that will increase the risk of injury. Yet even when technique is adequate, repetition of tennis strokes can bring about inequalities that result in injury and caused by repetitive strain. Once the initial injury and healing has occurred the major muscles still take control of the stabilization, which alters mechanical functions. Smaller muscles are responsible for necessary stabilization as it relates to injury prevention. As a result major muscle output capacity decreases during stroke production altering muscle functional chains. This also alters general posture bringing about increased stress to related muscles for the specific joint. Any alterations to normal body function greatly alter the body’s ability to stabilize. This affects us in the generation of movement and the functional capacity of muscles to work in sequence. Every muscle serves a purpose for movement and stability. If these actions are compromised, the affected joint or region has a reduced stability and in turn greatly increases the risk of injury. Early detection and appropriate implementation can help reduce its effects.