Two-dimensional kinematic analysis of futsal instep shot performance in trained and novice players

This study provides a comparative kinematic analysis of futsal instep shot performance between trained athletes and novice players, addressing limited evidence on how multijoint kinematic patterns are associated with ball velocity. Twenty trained futsal athletes and twenty novice players performed standardized instep shots recorded using high-speed cameras at 240 fps. Research procedures included camera calibration, frame-by-frame motion analysis, reliability testing, and kinematic extraction using Dartfish software. Joint angles, angular velocities, torso orientation, and ball velocity were examined using independent-sample t-tests, effect sizes, and multiple regression analysis. Trained athletes exhibited more optimized multijoint kinematic patterns, characterized by more mechanically efficient knee positioning during foot placement and backswing, improved torso stability, and effective upper-limb positioning. Significant between-group differences were detected across most kinematic variables (p < 0.05). Knee angular velocity emerged as the strongest predictor of ball velocity (R² = 0.62, p < 0.01). Optimized lower- and upper-body kinematic patterns are associated with shooting proficiency and performance, supporting targeted technical training focused on optimizing shooting mechanics and kinematic efficiency.