Modifying landing mat properties elicits different lower limb biomechanical responses in gymnasts and non-gymnasts

This study examined vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) and lower-limb kinematics during drop landings on different gymnastics mat types. Responses were compared between skilled female gymnasts (n = 11) and untrained young females (n = 11). Participants completed six standardized drop landings on a FIG-certified mat, a gymnastics carpet, and three custom-designed mats (TYPE 1–3) varying in layer number and material properties. Kinetic and kinematic data were collected for each trial. A two-way mixed ANOVA examined the effects of mat type and group. Both mat characteristics and participant background significantly influenced landing biomechanics. This included VGRFmax, time to VGRFmax, peak ankle and knee joint angles, and peak knee angular velocity. The FIG-certified mat produced the lowest peak forces and the longest time to peak. The carpet surface generated the highest peaks and shortest times. Softer mid-layers, as in TYPE 2, were associated with more favourable force profiles. Stiffer constructions transmitted higher loads. Gymnasts exhibited consistent plantarflexed initial contact, reduced knee flexion, and lower knee range of motion across surfaces. This reflects a joint-stiffening strategy likely developed through training. Non-gymnasts adopted deeper, more compliant landings and adjusted more to softer mats. These findings highlight the role of mat structure and user experience in shaping landing biomechanics. The results underscore the importance of biomechanical analysis in landing mat development to enhance safety across skill levels.