Prevention of injuries of the musculoskeletal system in tennis players with the Fusionetics™ Movement Efficiency test

Aim. The paper aims to identify the features of the individual areas of the musculoskeletal system of young tennis players (females, males) with the Fusionetics™ Movement Efficiency (ME) Test. Materials and methods. The study involved 30 right-handed tennis players (mean age 15 ± 2.2 years, sports experience 7-10 years). All participants were divided into two equal groups depending on gender: female (n = 15) and male athletes (n = 15). Five areas of the musculoskeletal system were evaluated in terms of movement efficiency and symmetry of the lower limbs by means of a 100-point scale Fusionetics™ ME test. The main movement errors and their frequency were analyzed. Results. The results obtained show significant intergroup differences in terms of movement efficiency in the hip and knee joints, symmetry of the lower limbs and single leg squat performance (the Mann - Whitney U test). A qualitative assessment of movements showed that the lumbopelvic hip complex was the weakest area in both groups. The frequency of the main movement errors among male and female tennis players was identified during feet, knee, hip and trunk movements. Conclusion. The results obtained are of practical importance and should be used when developing training programs to improve athletic performance and prevent injuries. The results of the ME test indicate the general status of the system under study.