The aim of this study was to identify the kinematic variables contributing to successful performance in kayaking using a kayak simulator and three-dimensional kinematic analysis. In addition, the presence of side-to-side asymmetries in selected linear and angular variables was investigated. Methods Five élite, four intermediate and six novice paddlers participated in this study. The subjects performed on a paddling simulator near their race pace. Three-dimensional coordinates of 17 anatomical landmarks were acquired at 100 Hz on an automatic motion analyser equipped with seven video cameras. Results Élite paddlers showed a significantly higher (absolute and relative to arm length) paddling amplitude than the other two groups, with no significant difference in anthropometric dimensions. In addition, they demonstrated a significantly lower level of asymmetry in some joint angles with respect to novice and intermediate paddlers. In contrast, less-experienced paddlers (novice and intermediate) showed more accentuated saddle and pelvis movements in the frontal plane. Conclusion Similar to previously findings in other symmetrical cyclic sporting activities (cross-country skiing, running), élite paddlers showed higher movement amplitude than intermediate and novice kayakers. Muscle strength and technical skills developed during training may explain the differences found.

Tridimensional kinematic analysis on a kayaking simulator : key factors to successful performance

G. Merati;
2010-01-01

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the kinematic variables contributing to successful performance in kayaking using a kayak simulator and three-dimensional kinematic analysis. In addition, the presence of side-to-side asymmetries in selected linear and angular variables was investigated. Methods Five élite, four intermediate and six novice paddlers participated in this study. The subjects performed on a paddling simulator near their race pace. Three-dimensional coordinates of 17 anatomical landmarks were acquired at 100 Hz on an automatic motion analyser equipped with seven video cameras. Results Élite paddlers showed a significantly higher (absolute and relative to arm length) paddling amplitude than the other two groups, with no significant difference in anthropometric dimensions. In addition, they demonstrated a significantly lower level of asymmetry in some joint angles with respect to novice and intermediate paddlers. In contrast, less-experienced paddlers (novice and intermediate) showed more accentuated saddle and pelvis movements in the frontal plane. Conclusion Similar to previously findings in other symmetrical cyclic sporting activities (cross-country skiing, running), élite paddlers showed higher movement amplitude than intermediate and novice kayakers. Muscle strength and technical skills developed during training may explain the differences found.
2010
motion analysis system; kinematic analysis; asymmetry
Limonta, E.; Squadrone, R.; Rodano, R.; Marzegan, A.; Veicsteinas, A.; Merati, G.; Sacchi, M.
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11383/2101907
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