Analysis of the temporal structure of elite beach tennis

Abstract

Numerous research studies have been conducted in racket sports to investigate various indicators related to sport success. However, there is limited scientific evidence analyzing beach tennis performance-related variables. Identifying temporal parameters in a sport is essential to understand the characteristics of the efforts that occur during a competition. The objective of this study is to investigate the temporal relationships that occur in high-level beach tennis competition. For the study development, the Spanish Absolute Championship was analyzed. An ad hoc tool was used, composed of a system organized into various temporal categories, in line with the theoretical framework of this sports specialty. The study design was based on a qualitative methodology of direct observation. All matches were recorded on video and subsequently analyzed using Match Vision Studio © 3.0 software. Total match duration, playing time (p=0.05), total break duration, breaks between points (p<0.001), and between games were longer in the women's competition. Playing time/pause time ratio was higher in women's matches. There was a greater proportion of playing time in relation to pause time in the women's category. The results related to the temporal structure of the game are valuable indicators for a more accurate study of the physical and physiological requirements of beach tennis, indicating differences between men's and women's competitions.