The College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Baghdad discussed a master’s thesis by Abbas Fadel Mohammed, entitled “The Effect of Exercises Using an Innovative Device on Footwork and Hitting-Arm Efficiency and Learning the Forehand and Backhand Strokes among Under-13 Table Tennis Players.”
The study aimed to investigate the effect of exercises using an innovative device on footwork efficiency, hitting-arm performance, and the acquisition of forehand and backhand skills among under-13 table tennis players. The researcher employed an experimental design involving experimental and control groups with pre- and post-tests.
The importance of the study lies in the use of a device consisting of two movable platforms equipped with pads designed to guide players through forward, backward, and lateral foot movements while coordinating them with arm movements. This approach promotes coordination between the upper and lower limbs, improves movement rhythm, increases the accuracy and number of repetitions, and helps correct technical movement patterns.
The researcher concluded that the innovative device effectively improved footwork and hitting-arm efficiency and contributed to better execution of the forehand and backhand strokes. The study recommends incorporating similar training devices into youth training programmes to accelerate skill acquisition and improve technical performance.
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