Match analysis of elite players during paddle tennis competition

The aim of this study was to determine notational anaylisis structure in paddle tennis in relation to gender. Sixteen semi-final or final paddle tennis matches (8 men and 8 women) of the circuit Paddle Pro Tour were selected. All matches were recorded with a wide-angle camera (Panasonic HC-700; Japan) and were analysed with Kinovea 8.15 software according to Anguera’s method. Match analysis (total time, real time, rest time, work-to-rest-time, points, strokes for points, rally time, and rest rally time) and shots (service, return, ground strokes, net strokes, and indirect strokes) were studied. The results showed statistically significant differences in real time, rest time and number of strokes with higher values in female than in male paddle tennis players (p<.05). A statistical difference was shown in percentage of type of strokes (backhand volley, indirect forehand lob, backhand lob) by gender (p<.05). In conclusion, knowledge of activity patterns within competition helps with specific training for the sport. These findings might help coaches to know better this speciality.