Assessment of the Reliability and Validity of the Leg Lateral Reach Test in Adolescent Tennis Players

The aim of this study is to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Leg Lateral Reach Test to measure thoraco-lumbo-pelvic segment mobility in adolescent tennis players. The fact that the test is valid and reliable for tennis players will contribute to monitoring trunk rotation flexibility in athletes, comparing them bilaterally, and revealing the exercise training necessary to improve performance.

Tennis is a sport characterized by coordinated, repetitive, and rotational movements along the kinetic chain. Ineffective use of the trunk segment to generate rotational momentum is thought to increase the load on the upper extremity. Limited trunk rotation flexibility can cause abnormal trunk motion patterns, resulting in lower back injuries and pain as well as upper extremity injuries in throwing athletes. Therefore, assessment of trunk flexibility in athletes who perform repetitive trunk rotations, such as tennis players, is critical for effective rehabilitation and prevention of sports injuries. The Leg Lateral Reach Test was developed to measure the rotation of the thoraco-lumbo-pelvic segment and was found to be valid and reliable in physically active, healthy individuals. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Leg Lateral Reach Test to measure thoraco-lumbo-pelvic segment mobility in adolescent tennis players. The fact that the test is valid and reliable for tennis players will contribute to monitoring trunk rotation flexibility in athletes, comparing them bilaterally, and revealing the exercise training necessary to improve performance.