Influence of grip type on peak force during isometric mid-thigh pull and its relationship with hand grip strength in elite badminton players

Abstract

Approach: An isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) test is highly reliable for monitoring neuromuscular performance but the influence of grip type on the ability to exert force during IMTP remains unclear. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of different grip types on peak force (PF) during the IMTP, and investigate the relationship between hand grip strength and IMTP PF in elite badminton players. Methods: Thirty-five elite Thai badminton players participated in a randomized counterbalanced research design, performing experimental sessions over five weeks and rotating through the five conditions: 1) IMTP with a hook grip (IHG), 2) IMTP with a pronated grip (IPG), 3) IMTP with a supinated grip (ISG), 4) IMTP with a mixed grip (IMG), and 5) a hand grip strength test (HGS). A repeated measures analysis of variance was used to determine differences in PF. Within-session reliability for PF was calculated from intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) and coefficients of variation (CV). Correlations between hand grip strength and IMTP PF were calculated using Pearson’s product-moment. Results: Results revealed significant differences in PF among the grip types (p < 0.01), with the IPG producing the highest PF and the IHG producing the lowest PF. Reliability within sessions was excellent for PF in all grip types (r ≥ 0.99 [95% CI: 0.99-1.00], CV= 2.03-6.49%). A large and positive correlation was found between hand grip strength and IMTP PF across all grip types (p < 0.01, r = 0.86-0.89). Conclusion: These findings highlight the influence of grip type and hand grip strength on force production during the IMTP in badminton players. We suggest that coaches and practitioners should select the pronated grip and assess hand grip strength to optimize IMTP assessment for badminton players and other athletes. © JPES.