Phase-Specific Kinematic Differences in Change of Direction Interlimb Performance Asymmetry

ABSTRACT: Horvath, D, Farago, N, and Finta, R. Phase-specific kinematic differences in change of direction interlimb performance asymmetry. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study investigated phase-specific kinematic differences in 180° change of direction (COD) interlimb performance asymmetry, and evaluated associations between linear kinematics and change of direction deficit (CODD) across respective turning limbs. Forty-eight youth basketball players (age = 16.74 ± 1.8 years, height = 184.19 ± 8.3 cm, body mass = 78.13 ± 13.13 kg) performed the 10-m sprint test, and on alternating limbs, 505 tests. Thirty-seven subjects with worthwhile interlimb differences between faster (dominant; D) and slower (nondominant; ND) sides were analyzed. Paired t-tests revealed significant kinematic differences (p < 0.05) of effect sizes (Hedges' g) between g = 0.357-0.708. The ND side displayed differences of lower magnitude trunk angular displacement (Angdispl) and slower average angular speed in the early deceleration phase, and lower ratios of early to late deceleration. In reacceleration, the ND side displayed greater trunk Angdispl, faster average and peak angular rotation, and peak acceleration during the early phase, with lower average and peak acceleration in the late phase, along with higher early to late acceleration ratios. Spearman's correlations revealed significant moderate positive associations between all deceleration variables and CODD on both sides (D: ρ = 0.358-0.487; ND: ρ = 0.416-0.494), whereas acceleration variables displayed no statistically significant associations with performance. Results indicate braking modulation and trunk rotational profile differences in interlimb performance asymmetry. A self-regulating approach that is performance-oriented, yet defensive, may explain execution asymmetry. Practitioners should consider turning technique coaching to improve bilateral asymmetry, with consideration for potential underlying defensive mechanisms.