Assessing the Effects of Fatigue on Ground Reaction Force Variations during Landing after a Spike in Professional Volleyball Players

Abstract

Objective This study examines the impact of fatigue on kinetic variables during landing after performing a spike in professional volleyball players. Fatigue can significantly affect athletic performance and increase the risk of lower limb injuries, particularly in movements that require precise landings. Methods In this study, 28 professional volleyball players performed a spike over the net and landed on a force plate before and after inducing fatigue. Kinetic variables, including ground reaction forces and loading rates, were evaluated at both stages. A paired t-test was used to examine the effect of fatigue on these variables during the landing task after the spike. All statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software with a significance level set at P<0.05. Results The results showed that fatigue caused a significant reduction in the vertical ground reaction force at initial contact, the maximum posterior force, and the medio-lateral force at initial contact in the dominant leg. Fatigue did not have a significant effect on the other variables. Conclusion The results indicated that the ground reaction force in the dominant leg after inducing fatigue was significantly different from before. Given the asymmetry in ground reaction forces between the dominant and non-dominant legs, it is crucial to address this in training programs.

Keywords

• volleyball
• kinetics
• spike
• dominant and non-dominant foot