Mingquan Zhang, Wenlong Zhang, Junye Tao, Yana Liu, Rui Jin, Xiao Xu
The results indicated that the cluster-enhanced parallel coordinates module improved the readability of multidimensional categorical data and supported the identification and interpretation of player-specific tactical profiles. The spatiotemporal cube module revealed recurring landing-path patterns and stroke-sequence-based changes in landing-point distributions. The expert evaluation further supported the analytical usefulness and interpretability of the proposed framework for post-match technical and tactical analysis.
INTRODUCTION: This randomized controlled trial compared the task-specific effects of 6 weeks of QuickBoard-assisted reactive agility training (RAT) and pre-planned agility training (PPAT) in young male table tennis players.
METHODS: Forty young male Chinese table tennis players were randomly allocated to RAT (n = 20) or PPAT (n = 20). Both groups trained three times per week for 45 min per session under matched training frequency, planned session duration, and session structure. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included foot speed, choice reaction time, planned change-of-direction performance, table tennis-specific reactive change-of-direction performance, stroke continuity, and an integrated footwork-stroke task requiring accurate ball placement under time pressure. Outcomes were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models including fixed effects for Group, Time, and their interaction.
RESULTS: Significant overall Time effects were observed for all six outcomes (p ≤ .029). Significant Group × Time interactions were identified for choice reaction time (p = .005, d = -0.65) and the Forehand Drive after Backhand Push Test (p = .049, d = 0.55). Bonferroni-adjusted simple-effects analyses showed significant pre-to-post improvements in the RAT group for both outcomes (both adjusted p < .001), whereas the corresponding changes in the PPAT group were not significant. However, adjusted between-group differences at post-test were not statistically significant. No significant Group × Time interactions were observed for foot speed, planned or reactive change-of-direction performance, or the Alternate Counter Test (p ≥ .074).
DISCUSSION: QuickBoard-assisted training was associated with broad improvements over time, whereas the additional benefits of RAT were task-specific. Stimulus-driven and decision-loaded training appeared particularly relevant to choice reaction performance and table tennis tasks requiring the integration of footwork, postural adjustment, and stroke execution under time pressure.