TACTIC OF SLIDING IN TENNIS POSES POTENTIAL PROBLEMS

It's a modern tennis phenomenon which has left many fans questioning the quality of the grip on players' shoes. But a new study suggests skidding across the court to reach shots is an intentional technique practiced by the top five male players in the world. After analyzing hours of matches from the Australian and U.S. Open, a team of scientists says the tactic is regularly used as it's quicker than running and allows players to change direction sooner.

 

Dr. Alex Kor

 

Dr. Alex Kor, a Maryland-based podiatrist and nationally-ranked senior tennis player, told Inside Science: "For the most part, I think sliding on a hard court, unless somebody grew up with it, can result in injury. It's not for the recreational player. Unless you are very well adept at it, you are going to end up with an injury, an ankle sprain, an ankle fracture."

 

Source: Jack Krone, Daily Mail 

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News. 

Brought to you by Doctor John A. Hardy, owner of Toronto's foot clinic, Academy Foot and Orthotic Clinics.