Adölesan dönem tenis oyuncularında ayak antropometrisi değişkenleri ile performans arasındaki ilişkinin değerlendirilmesi

The aim of this study is to evaluate the foot anthropometric values of adolescent tennis players and to investigate their effects on performance parameters. Adolescent age group 48(19M, 29F) volunteer tennis players with an average age of 11,02±1,792 who play active tennis in optimum tennis academy were included in the study. The sociodemographic characteristics of the participants were evaluated using a structured questionnaire. Bilateral anthropometric measurements of all participants with bare foot were measured with tape measure and digital caliper. Measured anthropometric values are medial malleolar height, lateral malleolar height, heel width, foot length, foot width, 1st metatarsophalangeal bone length. Performance tests, which are frequently used in tennis players, were applied to the participants. The hexagon agility test was used to determine the agility of the athlete, the y balance test to determine the dynamic balance, the vertical jump test to determine the lower extremity strength, and the navicular drop test to determine the foot arch height. As a result of our statistical analyzes, it was observed that there was a negative relationship (r=-0.322; p=0.026) between the length of the right foot and the hexagon agility test (clockwise). A statistically significant correlation was observed between left medial height and hexagon test (clockwise and counterclockwise) (p<0.05). A statistically significant correlation was observed between the Y balance test and the foot width and the length of the 1st metatarsophalangeal bone. Significant correlations were found between foot length (p<0.001), heel width (p<0.05), foot width (p<0.05), medial and lateral malleolus height (p<0.05) and vertical jump test. It was observed that there was a significant correlation between the height of the medial malleolus of the left foot and the navicular drop test, and between the height of the lateral malleolus and the navicular drop test (p<0.05). It has been found that the foot structure compatible with the hypothesis affects the performance of the athlete. According to the results of this study, we suggest examining the foot structure while evaluating the performance of tennis players and preparing the training program. After evaluating the player's foot, we can say that the performance can be optimized by using supported insoles according to the player's foot, myofascial relaxation techniques, strengthening the foot extensor muscles or strengthening the foot flexor muscles in order to achieve the desired increase in performance.