What biomechanical parameters are related to drag-flick performance in field hockey? A systematic review

The drag-flick is a highly relevant skill to enlarge scoring opportunities during penalty corners in field hockey. Understanding drag-flick biomechanics will likely assist in optimising training and performance of drag-flickers. The purpose of this study was to identify the biomechanical parameters related to drag-flicking performance. Five electronic databases were systematically searched from inception to 10 February 2022. Studies were included if quantified biomechanical parameters of the drag-flick were assessed and related to performance outcomes. Quality assessment of the studies was performed according to the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. Study type, study design, participants' characteristics, biomechanical parameters, measurement instrumentation and results were extracted from all included studies. The search yielded 16 eligible studies (142 drag-flickers). Many different single kinematic parameters were associated with drag-flick performance and related to biomechanical aspects described in this study. Nonetheless, this review identified a lack of a solid body of knowledge on this topic due to a low number of studies as well as low study quality and strength of evidence. Future high-quality research is needed to develop a clear biomechanical blueprint of the drag-flick to better understand this complex motor skill.