Table 1_Delayed decision, harder landing: how mental fatigue alters reactive step biomechanics and joint loading in table tennis players.docx

Behaviorally, MF was associated with a cognitive-motor time compression effect, significantly prolonging premotor time (d = 4.26) while reducing chasse-step completion time (d = 6.03). Biomechanically, the MF condition was characterized by a shift toward a “stiff landing” strategy, decreasing maximum ankle dorsiflexion during initial landing (d = 0.57) and minimum knee flexion during stabilization (d = 0.72). Kinetically, this reduced shock absorption was accompanied by substantial increases in peak vertical ground reaction force (d = 0.75), loading rate (d = 0.97), and medial-lateral ground reaction force (d = 0.93).

Additionally, peak knee extension moments and proximal joint extension velocities were significantly reduced during the propulsion phase.</p>Conclusion<p>MF is linked to a cognitive delay and motor compression cascade that alters the temporal structure of reactive footwork. This central resource depletion may lead athletes to adopt a rigid landing strategy, sacrificing shock absorption and propulsive efficiency. Consequently, MF is associated with elevated multi-planar joint impact forces, highlighting it as a potential biomechanical risk factor for lower-limb injuries.

Ultimately, athletes’ cognitive state should be integrated into routine monitoring to balance performance optimization and injury prevention in high-speed racket sports.</p>