Biomechanical and technology-based analysis of the lunge and attacking actions in competitive fencing: a systematic review

Ade Zalindro(1), Rudyanto Rudyanto(2), M. Arie Desman(3),
(1) Universitas Negeri Padang  Indonesia
(2) Universitas Negeri Padang  Indonesia
(3) Universitas Negeri Padang  Indonesia

Corresponding Author


DOI : https://doi.org/10.32698/03402

Full Text:    Language : en

Abstract


The fencing lunge is an explosive, distance-sensitive action whose performance depends on coordinated lower-limb mechanics, postural control, and rapid perceptual-motor timing. This systematic review integrated biomechanical determinants with technology-based approaches for measuring and enhancing lunge performance. A PRISMA 2020 systematic review was conducted using Scopus (2016–2026). The search identified 403 records; 15 duplicates were removed, 388 records were screened, 57 full texts were assessed, and 18 studies were included. Because the included studies differed substantially in populations, weapons, task constraints, outcomes, and designs, findings were synthesised narratively using an a priori thematic coding framework aligned with three research questions rather than pooled quantitatively. Methodological quality was revised to a design-appropriate JBI appraisal framework. The supplied manuscript does not contain the original independent screening/extraction audit log; therefore, the final submission must report the actual reviewer number and Cohen’s kappa values from that log rather than retrospectively estimating them. The evidence indicates that lower-limb power, joint coordination, postural control, target distance, footwear, and weapon-specific demands shape attack execution. Inertial and depth sensors, two-dimensional video, and deep-learning models show growing validity and practical feasibility, but evidence for transfer to competitive outcomes remains limited. The field supports an integrated biomechanical-technology framework, but conclusions remain constrained by small samples, heterogeneous protocols, cross-sectional designs, single-database searching, and limited ecological validation.

References


Akınoğlu, B., Kabak, B., Balci, A., Kocahan, T., & Hasanoğlu, A. (2020). A Comparative Study Of Shoulder Muscle Strength, Sense Of Proprioception And Internal/External Rotation Flexibility Between Adolescent Athletes With And Without Scapular Asymmetry. Advances In Rehabilitation. Https://Doi.Org/10.5114/Areh.2020.99103

Aresta, A., Musci, G., Bottiglione, A., Moretti, B., Moretti, L., & Bortone, I. (2023). Motion Technologies In Support Of Fence Athletes: A Systematic Review. Applied Sciences, 13(3), 1654. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/App13031654

Borysiuk, Z., Blaszczyszyn, M., Piechota, K., Konieczny, M., & Cynarski, W.J. (2023). Correlations Between The EMG Structure Of Movement Patterns And Activity Of Postural Muscles In Able-Bodied And Wheelchair Fencers. Sensors. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/S23010135

Bottoms, L., Tarragó, R., Muñiz, D., Chaverri, D., Irurtia, Castizo-Olier, J., Carrasco, M., Rodríguez, F.A., & Iglesias, X. (2023). Physiological Demands And Motion Analysis Of Elite Foil Fencing. Plos ONE. Https://Doi.Org/10.1371/Journal.Pone.0281600

Campaniço, A.T., Valente, A., Serôdio, R., & Escalera, S. (2018). Data’s Hidden Data: Qualitative Revelations Of Sports Efficiency Analysis Brought By Neural Network Performance Metrics. Motricidade. Https://Doi.Org/10.6063/Motricidade.15984

Chaabene, H., Negra, Y., Bouguezzi, R., Capranica, L., Franchini, E., Prieske, O., Hbacha, H., & Granacher, U. (2018). Tests For The Assessment Of Sport-Specific Performance In Olympic Combat Sports: A Systematic Review With Practical Recommendations. Frontiers In Physiology, 9, 386. Https://Doi.Org/10.3389/Fphys.2018.00386

Chang, C.-C., & Lee, T.-L. (2019). Fencing Tactics Analysis In Broadcast Video: A Point-By-Point Analytical System. IEEE Transactions On Circuits And Systems For Video Technology. Https://Doi.Org/10.1109/TCSVT.2018.2855098

Chen, T. L.-W., Wong, D. W.-C., Wang, Y., Ren, S., Yan, F., & Zhang, M. (2017). Biomechanics Of Fencing Sport: A Scoping Review. Plos ONE, 12(2), E0171578. Https://Doi.Org/10.1371/Journal.Pone.0171578

Chida, K., Inami, T., Yamaguchi, S., Nishioka, T., Yoshida, Y., & Kohtake, N. (2024b). Assessing The Validity Of Two-Dimensional Video Analysis For Measuring Lower Limb Joint Angles During Fencing Lunge. Frontiers In Sports And Active Living. Https://Doi.Org/10.3389/Fspor.2024.1335272

Chida, K., Inami, T., Yamaguchi, S., Yoshida, Y., & Kohtake, N. (2024a). Effects Of Different Target Distances On The Kinematics Of Hip, Knee, And Ankle Joints In The Fencing Lunge. Biomechanics (Switzerland). Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Biomechanics4020020

Chtara, H., Negra, Y., Chaabene, H., Chtara, M., Cronin, J., & Chaouachi, A. (2020). Validity And Reliability Of A New Test Of Change Of Direction In Fencing Athletes. International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Ijerph17124545

Cid-Calfucura, I., Herrera-Valenzuela, T., Franchini, E., Falco, C., Alvial-Moscoso, J., Pardo-Tamayo, C., Zapata-Huenullán, C., Ojeda-Aravena, A., & Valdés-Badilla, P. (2023). Effects Of Strength Training On Physical Fitness Of Olympic Combat Sports Athletes: A Systematic Review. International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health, 20(4), 3516. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Ijerph20043516

Couppé, C., Svensson, R.B., Skovlund, S.V., Jensen, J.K., Eriksen, C.S., Malmgaard-Clausen, N.M., Nybing, J.D., Kjaer, M., & Magnussson, S.P. (2021). Habitual Side-Specific Loading Leads To Structural, Mechanical, And Compositional Changes In The Patellar Tendon Of Young And Senior Lifelong Male Athletes. Journal Of Applied Physiology. Https://Doi.Org/10.1152/Japplphysiol.00202.2021

Da Silva, L. S., Trindade Neto, N. R., Lopes-Silva, J. P., Leandro, C. G., & Silva-Cavalcante, M. D. (2021). Training Protocols And Specific Performance In Judo Athletes: A Systematic Review. Journal Of Strength And Conditioning Research. Https://Doi.Org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000004015

Di Cagno, A., Iuliano, E., Buonsenso, A., Giombini, A., Di Martino, G., Parisi, A., Calcagno, G., & Fiorilli, G. (2020). Effects Of Accentuated Eccentric Training Vs Plyometric Training On Performance Of Young Elite Fencers. Journal Of Sports Science And Medicine.

Fei, Z., & Zhao, C. (2022). Evaluation Algorithm Of Fencing Athletes' Strength Distribution Characteristics Based On Gait Tracking. Mobile Information Systems. Https://Doi.Org/10.1155/2022/3602776

Fischer, G., Kons, R.L., Da Silva, K.C., Pavani, R.M., Berton, D.C., Detanico, D., & Peyrè-Tartaruga, L.A. (2026). Inspiratory Muscle Training In Wheelchair Athletes: Effects On Respiratory Function And Para Fencing Performance. Physical Therapy In Sport. Https://Doi.Org/10.1016/J.Ptsp.2026.101900

Franchini, E., Cormack, S., & Takito, M. Y. (2019). Effects Of High-Intensity Interval Training On Olympic Combat Sports Athletes' Performance And Physiological Adaptation: A Systematic Review. Journal Of Strength And Conditioning Research, 33(1), 242–252. Https://Doi.Org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000002957

Gaviria Chavarro, J., Jiménez Trujillo, Ó.H., Gómez García, M.Á., Zambrano Bermeo, R.N., & Jiménez Cerquera, C. (2026). Sex-Based Differences In The Physical Capacity Profile Of Regional Fencers. Sports. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Sports14060238

Gaweł, E., Drozd, M., & Zając, A. (2025). Current Trends In Physical And Physiological Profile Of Elite WKF Karate Athletes: A Systematic Review. BMC Sports Science, Medicine And Rehabilitation, 17, 6. Https://Doi.Org/10.1186/S13102-024-01047-5

Guo, R., Chen, B., & Li, Y. (2024). Deep Learning Methods To Analyze The Forces And Torques In Joints Motion. Applied Sciences (Switzerland). Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/App14156846

Gutiérrez-Davila, M., Rojas, F.J., Gutiérrez-Cruz, C., García, C., & Navarro, E. (2016). Time Required To Initiate A Defensive Reaction To Direct And Feint Attacks In Fencing. Journal Of Applied Biomechanics. Https://Doi.Org/10.1123/Jab.2015-0333

Harfoush, A., & Hossam, M. (2020). Modelling Of A Robot-Arm For Training In Fencing Sport. International Journal Of Intelligent Robotics And Applications. Https://Doi.Org/10.1007/S41315-020-00116-5

Hsu, J.-T., & Chen, Y.-H. (2026). Match Performance Analysis Of Women’s Épée In The 2017–2019 World Fencing Championships. Journal Of Human Kinetics. Https://Doi.Org/10.5114/Jhk/203422

James, L. P., Haff, G. G., Kelly, V. G., & Beckman, E. M. (2016). Towards A Determination Of The Physiological Characteristics Distinguishing Successful Mixed Martial Arts Athletes: A Systematic Review Of Combat Sport Literature. Sports Medicine, 46(10), 1525–1551. Https://Doi.Org/10.1007/S40279-016-0493-1

Kim, H.-B., & Nam, S. S. (2021). Physical Characteristics And Physical Fitness Profiles Of Korean Taekwondo Athletes: A Systematic Review. International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health, 18(18), 9624. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Ijerph18189624

Kim, H.-C., & Park, K.-J. (2025). Factor Analysis On The Performance Of Elite Male Fencing Athletes. Journal Of Sports Medicine And Physical Fitness. Https://Doi.Org/10.23736/S0022-4707.24.16381-5

Kons, R. L., Orssatto, L. B. R., & Detanico, D. (2020). Acute Performance Responses During Repeated Matches In Combat Sports: A Systematic Review. Journal Of Science And Medicine In Sport, 23(5), 512–518. Https://Doi.Org/10.1016/J.Jsams.2019.12.004

Kurt, A.G., & Acar, M. (2025). Association Of Aerobic Performance With Balance, Anaerobic Power, Agility, And Visual Reaction Time In Fencers. Baltic Journal Of Health And Physical Activity. Https://Doi.Org/10.29359/BJHPA.17.4.05

Lamberti, G., Leccese, F., Salvadori, G., & Fantozzi, F. (2020). Effect Of Exercise On Athletes Performing In Fencing Uniforms: Methodology And Preliminary Results Of The Use Of Infrared Thermography To Detect The Thermal Behaviour Of Fencers. Applied Sciences (Switzerland). Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/App10093296

Li, R., Jumet, B., Ren, H., Song, W., & Tse, Z.T.H. (2020). An Inertial Measurement Unit Tracking System For Body Movement In Comparison With Optical Tracking. Proceedings Of The Institution Of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal Of Engineering In Medicine. Https://Doi.Org/10.1177/0954411920921695

Lockhart, R. A., Et Al. (2022). A Systematic Review On The Biomechanics Of Breakfall Technique (Ukemi) In Relation To Injury In Judo Within The Adult Judoka Population. International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health, 19(7), 4259. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Ijerph19074259

Magnani, C., & Ait-Said, E.D. (2021). Geometrical Analysis Of Motion Schemes On Fencing Experts From Competition Videos. Plos ONE. Https://Doi.Org/10.1371/Journal.Pone.0261888

Malawski, F. (2021). Depth Versus Inertial Sensors In Real-Time Sports Analysis: A Case Study On Fencing. IEEE Sensors Journal. Https://Doi.Org/10.1109/JSEN.2020.3036436

Malawski, F. (2022). IMMERSIVE FEEDBACK IN FENCING TRAINING USING MIXED REALITY. Computer Science. Https://Doi.Org/10.7494/Csci.2022.23.1.4570

Malawski, F., & Krupa, M. (2023). Temporal Segmentation Of Actions In Fencing Footwork Training. Computer Science Research Notes. Https://Doi.Org/10.24132/CSRN.3301.28

Malawski, F., & Kwolek, B. (2018). Recognition Of Action Dynamics In Fencing Using Multimodal Cues. Image And Vision Computing. Https://Doi.Org/10.1016/J.Imavis.2018.04.005

Marotta, N., Lopresti, E., Longo, U. G., Demeco, A., Lippi, L., Zangari, F., Ammendolia, V., Vecchio, M., Vetrano, M., Invernizzi, M., De Sire, A., & Ammendolia, A. (2026). Role Of Core Training In Judo Athletes: A Systematic Review. Journal Of Clinical Medicine, 15(5), 1897. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Jcm15051897

Martín-Ruiz, J., Alarcón-Jiménez, J., De Bernardo, N., Tamarit-Grancha, I., Iglesias, X., & Ruiz-Sanchis, L. (2024b). Muscle Changes During Direct Attack Under Different Conditions In Elite Wheelchair Fencing. Sports. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Sports12070188

Martín-Ruiz, J., Alarcón-Jiménez, J., De-Bernardo, N., Iglesias, X., & Ruiz-Sanchis, L. (2024a). Cardiocirculatory, Metabolic, And Perceptual Responses In Elite Wheelchair Fencing Competition. Apunts. Educacion Fisica Y Deportes. Https://Doi.Org/10.5672/Apunts.2014-0983.Es.(2024/3).157.06

Michaelsen, A.N., & Cleland, C.L. (2019). Kinematic Determinants Of Scoring Success In The Fencing Flick: Logistic And Linear Multiple Regression Analysis. Plos ONE. Https://Doi.Org/10.1371/Journal.Pone.0222075

Moher, D., Liberati, A., Tetzlaff, J., & Altman, D. G. (2009). Preferred Reporting Items For Systematic Reviews And Meta-Analyses: The PRISMA Statement. Plos Medicine, 6(7), E1000097. Https://Doi.Org/10.1371/Journal.Pmed.1000097

Ningrum, N.R., Sukamti, E.R., Kurniawan, F., Fauzi, Nugroho, A., Karyono, T.H., Susanto, N., Putra, M.E., & Ryepko, O. (2024). Analysis Of Fencers’ Post-Injury Adjustment: Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Health, Sport, Rehabilitation. Https://Doi.Org/10.58962/HSR.2024.10.3.39-52

Niță, V.-A., & Magyar, P. (2023). Improving Balance And Movement Control In Fencing Using Iot And Real-Time Sensorial Feedback. Sensors. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/S23249801

Oates, L.W., Campbell, I.G., Iglesias, X., Price, M.J., Muniz-Pumares, D., & Bottoms, L.M. (2019). The Physiological Demands Of Elite Epée Fencers During Competition. International Journal Of Performance Analysis In Sport. Https://Doi.Org/10.1080/24748668.2018.1563858

Page, M. J., Mckenzie, J. E., Bossuyt, P. M., Boutron, I., Hoffmann, T. C., Mulrow, C. D., ... Moher, D. (2021). The PRISMA 2020 Statement: An Updated Guideline For Reporting Systematic Reviews. BMJ, 372, N71. Https://Doi.Org/10.1136/Bmj.N71

Ren, Y., Sang, H., Huang, S., & Qin, X. (2024). Multistream Adaptive Attention-Enhanced Graph Convolutional Networks For Youth Fencing Footwork Training. Pediatric Exercise Science. Https://Doi.Org/10.1123/Pes.2024-0025

Roa, J.E., Arias, N.D., Gaviria, J., Orejuela, D.F., & Rojas-Padilla, I.C. (2025). From Body To Combat: Physical Characterization Of Fencers According To Their Weapon. Sport Mont. Https://Doi.Org/10.26773/Smj.251007

Shynkaruk, O., Ulan, A., Bondar, A., Iakovenko, O., Strohanov, S., Pavlenko, I., Goncharenko, I., & Krasnianskiy, K. (2020). Left-Handed And Right-Handed Fencers In The International Sports Arena: Specifics Of Their Competitive Activity And Features Of Identification. Physical Education Theory And Methodology. Https://Doi.Org/10.17309/Tmfv.2020.2.01

Sinclair, J., & Bottoms, L. (2019). Gender Specific ACL Loading Patterns During The Fencing Lunge: Implications For ACL Injury Risk. Science And Sports. Https://Doi.Org/10.1016/J.Scispo.2018.05.005

Tarragó, R., Bottoms, L., & Iglesias, X. (2023). Temporal Demands Of Elite Fencing. Plos ONE. Https://Doi.Org/10.1371/Journal.Pone.0285033

Terbalyan, A., Et Al. (2025). Effect Of Post-Activation Performance Enhancement In Combat Sports: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis—Part I: General Performance Indicators. Journal Of Functional Morphology And Kinesiology, 10(1), 88. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Jfmk10010088

Terbalyan, A., Et Al. (2026). Effect Of Post-Activation Performance Enhancement In Combat Sports: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis—Part II: Specific Performance Indicators. Journal Of Functional Morphology And Kinesiology, 11(2), 157. Https://Doi.Org/10.3390/Jfmk11020157

Thomas, J., & Harden, A. (2008). Methods For The Thematic Synthesis Of Qualitative Research In Systematic Reviews. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 8, 45. Https://Doi.Org/10.1186/1471-2288-8-45

Tranfield, D., Denyer, D., & Smart, P. (2003). Towards A Methodology For Developing Evidence-Informed Management Knowledge By Means Of Systematic Review. British Journal Of Management, 14(3), 207-222. Https://Doi.Org/10.1111/1467-8551.00375

Turner, A., Bishop, C., Chavda, S., Edwards, M., Brazier, J., & Kilduff, L.P. (2016). Physical Characteristics Underpinning Lunging And Change Of Direction Speed In Fencing. Journal Of Strength And Conditioning Research. Https://Doi.Org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000001320

Turner, A.N., Bishop, C.J., Cree, J.A., Edwards, M.L., Chavda, S., Read, P.J., & Kirby, D.M.J. (2017). Do Fencers Require A Weapon-Specific Approach To Strength And Conditioning Training?. Journal Of Strength And Conditioning Research. Https://Doi.Org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000001637

Turner, A.N., Marshall, G., Phillips, J., Noto, A., Buttigieg, C., Chavda, S., Downing, W., Atlay, N., Dimitriou, L., & Kilduff, L. (2016). Physical Characteristics Underpinning Repetitive Lunging In Fencing. Journal Of Strength And Conditioning Research. Https://Doi.Org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000001402

Varesco, G., Pageaux, B., Cattagni, T., Sarcher, A., Martinent, G., Doron, J., & Jubeau, M. (2023). Fatigue In Elite Fencing: Effects Of A Simulated Competition. Scandinavian Journal Of Medicine And Science In Sports. Https://Doi.Org/10.1111/Sms.14466

Wang, S.-T., Chang, C.-C., Chao, T., Nicholls, A., & Tsai, Y.-S. (2024). Shoe Choice May Affect Fencing Lunge Attack Performance. Frontiers In Bioengineering And Biotechnology. Https://Doi.Org/10.3389/Fbioe.2024.1276025

Wei, S., & Wei, D. (2024). The Biomechanical Characteristics Of Fencing Lunge Movements And Their Implications For Physical Training. MCB Molecular And Cellular Biomechanics. Https://Doi.Org/10.62617/Mcb555

Witkowski, M., Karpowicz, K., Tomczak, M., & Bronikowski, M. (2019). A Loss Of Precision Of Movements In Fencing Due To Increasing Fatigue During Physical Exercise. Medicina Dello Sport. Https://Doi.Org/10.23736/S0025-7826.19.03383-0

Wylde, M.J., & Yong, L.C. (2015). Time-Motion And Heart-Rate Characteristics Of Adolescent Female Foil Fencers. Journal Of Human Sport And Exercise. Https://Doi.Org/10.14198/Jhse.2015.10.Proc2.09

Xue, C., & Lin, J. (2025). Sports Event Video Sequence Action Recognition Based On LDCT Networks And MTSM Networks. IEEE Access. Https://Doi.Org/10.1109/ACCESS.2025.3546266

Yang, W.-H., Park, J.-H., Shin, Y.-C., & Kim, J. (2022). Physiological Profiling And Energy System Contributions During Simulated Epée Matches In Elite Fencers. International Journal Of Sports Physiology And Performance. Https://Doi.Org/10.1123/Ijspp.2021-0497

Yılmaz, E. A., & Ateş, O. (2025). Taekwondo Kicks At The Center Of Biomechanical Research: Systematic Review. Kinesiology, 57(2), 289–307. Https://Doi.Org/10.26582/K.57.2.13


Article Metrics

 Abstract Views : 0 times
 PDF Downloaded : 0 times

Refbacks

  • There are currently no refbacks.


Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.