Kinematic analysis of pickleball forehand return and skill transfer of accuracy from badminton and tennis players

Abstract

As an emerging sport that helps develop agility, coordination, and strategic skills in recreational players, pickleball shares similar abilities found in racquet sports. These shared skills contribute to post-career satisfaction among retired athletes, which in turn promotes lifelong participation among older adults. This research aims to collect kinematic data from racquet sport athletes performing pickleball skills, to inform the development of targeted training programs for both athletes and older adult participants. The study involved twelve participants (N= = 12) who were badminton (BG) and tennis (TG) players with formal training and competitive experience. Skill accuracy was assessed while motion is being captured, gathering kinematic data using Kinovea 2023.1.2