Assessing Table Tennis Technical Proficiency in Individuals with Disabilities: A Scoping Review
Source abstract
Abstract
Table tennis is a sport that is enjoyed by many, including those with physical and intellectual disabilities. This scoping review summarised the current test protocols for assessing table tennis technical proficiency in individuals with disabilities. Relevant articles were searched through four databases (Scopus, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science) covering three key aspects: disability, table tennis, and technical proficiency. The search resulted in 14 studies included for data extraction, covering physical impairments, intellectual disability, and development coordination disorder. Almost all studies (93%) were conducted on well-trained para-table tennis athletes competing in high-level competitions. There exist protocols to assess service accuracy and stroke accuracy, hand–eye coordination, quality of specific skills and ball control, functional reach, and trunk rotation. The forehand topspin and backhand topspin drives were tested the most. Table tennis robots and video cameras are the common equipment used. Moving forward, future research should develop technical proficiency tests for players across all competency levels. The skill assessment criteria and scoring methods should be standardised and clearly explained. The validity and reliability of tests should be established. Lastly, there is great potential in using artificial intelligence to enhance the assessment of table tennis proficiency in individuals with disabilities.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Sports injuries and prevention · Sports Performance and Training · Shoulder Injury and Treatment
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Physical Education and Sports Science, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637616, Singapore
The Institute for Higher Education Research and Development, Hong Kong Polytechnics University, Hong Kong SAR, China
Funding
Singapore’s Ministry of Education Academic Research Fund (MOE AcRF) Tier 1
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