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25 pages, 7560 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Spin Bowling Deliveries with an Advanced Smart Cricket Ball

by Franz Konstantin Fuss, Batdelger Doljin and René E. D. Ferdinands

Sensors 2024, 24(22), 7106; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24227106 - 5 Nov 2024

Viewed by 551

Abstract

The type of throw of a spin bowler can be analysed in the laboratory using a motion analysis system. However, there is still no method to determine the type of throw using other means and less effort. To solve this problem, we revised [...] Read more.

The type of throw of a spin bowler can be analysed in the laboratory using a motion analysis system. However, there is still no method to determine the type of throw using other means and less effort. To solve this problem, we revised the traditional classification of spin bowling throws and analysed whether spin bowling throws are separate entities or continuous concepts. We used an advanced smart cricket ball with high-speed gyroscopes to record the bowling actions and mathematically transformed the spin axis from the ball coordinate system (BCS) to the global coordinate system (GCS). We developed a visualisation method to map spin bowling throws from the yaw and pitch angles of the ball’s spin axis in the GCS. We compared the data from the smart ball with the data from the motion analysis system and profiled seven spin bowlers using the new method. The results of this study have shown that spin bowling throws are continuous concepts and that all differences between the two spin axis measurement methods were within 95% limits of agreement. The Smart Ball is sufficiently accurate to measure the direction of the ball’s spin axis in the GCS and is therefore well suited for profiling spin bowlers. Hybrid deliveries between sidespin, top/backspin, and swerve maximise the deviations of the ball in flight from the straight flight path in all three planes of the GCS. Hybrid throws between sidespin, top/backspin, and spin maximise the ball’s deviation from the straight trajectory in all three planes of the GCS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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9 pages, 888 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Validity and Reliability of the Photo Finish^® Smartphone App to Measure Sprint Time

by Luis Alberto Marco-Contreras, Ana Vanessa Bataller-Cervero, Héctor Gutiérrez, Jorge Sánchez-Sabaté and César Berzosa

Sensors 2024, 24(20), 6719; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24206719 - 19 Oct 2024

Viewed by 766

Abstract

In athletic training and research, the evaluation of sprint speed is widely used, and its accurate measurement is especially demanding. High-cost photocells are the gold-standard system for sprint time assessment, although low-cost smartphone applications can be a suitable option. This study assesses the [...] Read more.

In athletic training and research, the evaluation of sprint speed is widely used, and its accurate measurement is especially demanding. High-cost photocells are the gold-standard system for sprint time assessment, although low-cost smartphone applications can be a suitable option. This study assesses the validity and reliability of an application to measure sprint time compared to photocells. Five physically active subjects completed six sprints of 10 m and 20 m at maximal speed and a 5 m go and return sprint to evaluate the validity of the Photo Finish^® app (Version 2.30). To assess reliability, six trials of 5 m go and return sprints were measured by two smartphones. The validity results showed a mean bias of 0.012 s (95% CL: 0.000, 0.024) between the application and the photocells for the 10 m sprint, 0.007 s (95% CL: −0.007, 0.022) for the 20 m sprint and 0.005 s (95% CL: −0.005, 0.017) for the 5 m go and return test. The results also found R² between both systems (R²= 0.9863, 0.990 and 0.958) for each distance (10 m, 20 m and 5 m go and return, respectively). As for reliability, the application showed outstanding consistency between two smartphones operating simultaneously (ICC 0.999; R²: 0.999). This study shows that the Photo Finish^® app is an accurate and reliable tool to measure sprint time with an error of 0.09 s. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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18 pages, 2224 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Validation of Automated Countermovement Vertical Jump Analysis: Markerless Pose Estimation vs. 3D Marker-Based Motion Capture System

by Jelena Aleksic, Dmitry Kanevsky, David Mesaroš, Olivera M. Knezevic, Dimitrije Cabarkapa, Branislav Bozovic and Dragan M. Mirkov

Sensors 2024, 24(20), 6624; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24206624 - 14 Oct 2024

Viewed by 944

Abstract

This study aimed to validate the automated temporal analysis of countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) using MMPose, a markerless pose estimation framework, by comparing it with the gold-standard 3D marker-based motion capture system. Twelve participants performed five CMJ trials, which were simultaneously recorded using [...] Read more.

This study aimed to validate the automated temporal analysis of countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) using MMPose, a markerless pose estimation framework, by comparing it with the gold-standard 3D marker-based motion capture system. Twelve participants performed five CMJ trials, which were simultaneously recorded using the marker-based system and two smartphone cameras capturing both sides of the body. Key kinematic points, including center of mass (CoM) and toe trajectories, were analyzed to determine jump phases and temporal variables. The agreement between methods was assessed using Bland–Altman analysis, root mean square error (RMSE), and Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r), while consistency was evaluated via intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC 3,1) and two-way repeated-measures ANOVA. Cohen’s effect size (d) quantified the practical significance of differences. Results showed strong agreement (r > 0.98) with minimal bias and narrow limits of agreement for most variables. The markerless system slightly overestimated jump height and CoM vertical velocity, but ICC values (ICC > 0.91) confirmed strong reliability. Cohen’s d values were near zero, indicating trivial differences, and no variability due to recording side was observed. Overall, MMPose proved to be a reliable alternative for in-field CMJ analysis, supporting its broader application in sports and rehabilitation settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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12 pages, 2902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Agreement and Sensitivity of the Acceleration–Velocity Profile Derived via Local Positioning System

by Mladen Jovanović, Adriano Arguedas-Soley, Dimitrije Cabarkapa, Håkan Andersson, Dóra Nagy, Nenad Trunić, Vladimir Banković, Répási Richárd, Sandor Safar and Laszlo Ratgeber

Sensors 2024, 24(19), 6192; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24196192 - 25 Sep 2024

Viewed by 933

Abstract

Sprint performance is commonly assessed via discrete sprint tests and analyzed through kinematic estimates modeled using a mono-exponential equation, including estimated maximal sprinting speed (

M S S

), relative acceleration (

T A U

), maximum acceleration (

M A C

), [...] Read more.

Sprint performance is commonly assessed via discrete sprint tests and analyzed through kinematic estimates modeled using a mono-exponential equation, including estimated maximal sprinting speed (

M S S

), relative acceleration (

T A U

), maximum acceleration (

M A C

), and relative propulsive maximal power (

P M A X

). The acceleration–velocity profile (AVP) provides a simple summary of short sprint performance using two parameters: MSS and MAC, which are useful for simplifying descriptions of sprint performance, comparison between athletes and groups of athletes, and estimating changes in performance over time or due to training intervention. However, discrete testing poses logistical challenges and defines an athlete’s AVP exclusively from the performance achieved in an isolated testing environment. Recently, an in situ AVP (velocity–acceleration method) was proposed to estimate kinematic parameters from velocity and acceleration data obtained via global or local positioning systems (GPS/LPS) over multiple training sessions, plausibly improving the time efficiency of sprint monitoring and increasing the sample size that defines the athlete’s AVP. However, the validity and sensitivity of estimates derived from the velocity–acceleration method in relation to changes in criterion scores remain elusive. To assess the concurrent validity and sensitivity of kinematic measures from the velocity–acceleration method, 31 elite youth basketball athletes (23 males and 8 females) completed two maximal effort 30 m sprint trials. Performance was simultaneously measured by a laser gun and an LPS (Kinexon), with kinematic parameters estimated using the time–velocity and velocity–acceleration methods. Agreement (

% B i a s

) between laser gun and LPS-derived estimates was within the practically significant magnitude (

\pm

5%), while confidence intervals for the percentage mean absolute difference (

% M A D

) overlapped practical significance for

T A U

,

M A C

, and

P M A X

using the velocity–acceleration method. Only the

M S S

parameter showed a sensitivity (

% M D C_{95}

) within practical significance (<5%), with all other parameters showing unsatisfactory sensitivity (>10%) for both the time–velocity and velocity–acceleration methods. Thus, sports practitioners may be confident in the concurrent validity and sensitivity of

M S S

estimates derived in situ using the velocity–acceleration method, while caution should be applied when using this method to infer an athlete’s maximal acceleration capabilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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13 pages, 7374 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Calculation of the Point of Application (Centre of Pressure) of Force and Torque Imparted on a Spherical Object from Gyroscope Sensor Data, Using Sports Balls as Practical Examples

by Franz Konstantin Fuss, Batdelger Doljin and René E. D. Ferdinands

Sensors 2024, 24(17), 5810; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24175810 - 7 Sep 2024

Viewed by 745

Abstract

This study investigates the determination of the centre of pressure (COP) on spherical sports objects such as cricket balls and footballs using gyroscope data from Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs). Conventional pressure sensors are not suitable for capturing the tangential forces responsible for torque [...] Read more.

This study investigates the determination of the centre of pressure (COP) on spherical sports objects such as cricket balls and footballs using gyroscope data from Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs). Conventional pressure sensors are not suitable for capturing the tangential forces responsible for torque generation. This research presents a novel method to calculate the COP solely from gyroscope data and avoids the complexity of isolating user-induced accelerations from IMU data. The COP is determined from the cross-product of consecutive torque vectors intersecting the surface of the sphere. Effective noise management techniques, including filtering and data interpolation, were employed to improve COP visualisation. Experiments were conducted using a smart cricket ball and a smart football. Validation tests using spin rates between 7.5 and 12 rps and torques ranging from 0.08 to 0.12 Nm confirmed consistent COP clustering around the expected positions. Further analysis extended to various spin bowling deliveries recorded using a smart cricket ball, and a curved football kick recorded using a smart football demonstrated the wide applicability of the method. The COPs of various spin bowling deliveries showed adjacent positions on the surface of the ball, traversing through backspin, sidespin and topspin, excluding the flipper and doosra deliveries. The calculation of the COP on the surface of the soccer ball could only be achieved by increasing the data sampling frequency sevenfold using curve fitting. Knowledge and use of the COP position offers significant advances in understanding and analysing ball dynamics in sports. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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14 pages, 4061 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Validity and Reliability of Movesense HR+ ECG Measurements for High-Intensity Running and Cycling

by Raúl Martín Gómez, Enzo Allevard, Haye Kamstra, James Cotter and Peter Lamb

Sensors 2024, 24(17), 5713; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24175713 - 2 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1323

Abstract

Low-cost, portable devices capable of accurate physiological measurements are attractive tools for coaches, athletes, and practitioners. The purpose of this study was primarily to establish the validity and reliability of Movesense HR+ ECG measurements compared to the criterion three-lead ECG, and secondarily, to [...] Read more.

Low-cost, portable devices capable of accurate physiological measurements are attractive tools for coaches, athletes, and practitioners. The purpose of this study was primarily to establish the validity and reliability of Movesense HR+ ECG measurements compared to the criterion three-lead ECG, and secondarily, to test the industry leader Garmin HRM. Twenty-one healthy adults participated in running and cycling incremental test protocols to exhaustion, both with rest before and after. Movesense HR+ demonstrated consistent and accurate R-peak detection, with an overall sensitivity of 99.7% and precision of 99.6% compared to the criterion; Garmin HRM sensitivity and precision were 84.7% and 87.7%, respectively. Bland–Altman analysis compared to the criterion indicated mean differences (SD) in RR’ intervals of 0.23 (22.3) ms for Movesense HR+ at rest and 0.38 (18.7) ms during the incremental test. The mean difference for Garmin HRM-Pro at rest was −8.5 (111.5) ms and 27.7 (128.7) ms for the incremental test. The incremental test correlation was very strong (r = 0.98) between Movesense HR+ and criterion, and moderate (r = 0.66) for Garmin HRM-Pro. This study developed a robust peak detection algorithm and data collection protocol for Movesense HR+ and established its validity and reliability for ECG measurement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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11 pages, 1085 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Angular and Straight Linear Rowing Ergometers at Different Intensities of Exercise

by Ricardo Cardoso, Manoel Rios, Pedro Fonseca, Joana Leão, Filipa Cardoso, Jose Arturo Abraldes Abraldes, Beatriz B. Gomes, João Paulo Vilas-Boas and Ricardo J. Fernandes

Sensors 2024, 24(17), 5686; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24175686 - 31 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1508

Abstract

We aimed to conduct a biophysical comparison of angular (Biorower) and linear (Concept2) rowing ergometers across a wide spectrum of exercise intensities. Sixteen (eleven male) skilled rowers, aged 29.8 ± 8.6 and 23.6 ± 1.5 years, with international competitive experience, performed 7 × [...] Read more.

We aimed to conduct a biophysical comparison of angular (Biorower) and linear (Concept2) rowing ergometers across a wide spectrum of exercise intensities. Sixteen (eleven male) skilled rowers, aged 29.8 ± 8.6 and 23.6 ± 1.5 years, with international competitive experience, performed 7 × 3 min bouts with 30 W increments and 60 s intervals, plus 1 min of all-out rowing on both machines with 48 h in between. The ventilatory and kinematical variables were measured breath-by-breath using a telemetric portable gas analyzer and determined using a full-body markerless system, respectively. Similar values of oxygen uptake were observed between ergometers across all intensity domains (e.g., 60.36 ± 8.40 vs. 58.14 ± 7.55 mL/min/kg for the Biorower and Concept2 at severe intensity). The rowing rate was higher on the Biorower vs. Concept2 at heavy and severe intensities (27.88 ± 3.22 vs. 25.69 ± 1.99 and 30.63 ± 3.18 vs. 28.94 ± 2.29). Other differences in kinematics were observed across all intensity domains, particularly in the thorax angle at the finish (e.g., 19.44 ± 4.49 vs. 27.51 ± 7.59° for the Biorower compared to Concep2 at heavy intensity), likely due to closer alignment of the Biorower with an on-water rowing technique. The overall perceived effort was lower on the Biorower when compared to the Concept2 (14.38 ± 1.76 vs. 15.88 ± 1.88). Rowers presented similar cardiorespiratory function on both rowing ergometers, while important biomechanical differences were observed, possibly due to the Biorower’s closer alignment with an on-water rowing technique. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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23 pages, 8456 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Versatile Jig for the Calibration and Validation of Force Metrics with Instrumented Paddles in Sprint Kayaking

by Hans Rosdahl, David Aitken, Mark Osborne, Jonas Willén and Johnny Nilsson

Sensors 2024, 24(15), 4870; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24154870 - 26 Jul 2024

Viewed by 820

Abstract

The interest in using new technologies to obtain recordings of on-water kinetic variables for assessing the performance of elite sprint kayakers has increased over the last decades but systematic approaches are warranted to ensure the validity and reliability of these measures. This study [...] Read more.

The interest in using new technologies to obtain recordings of on-water kinetic variables for assessing the performance of elite sprint kayakers has increased over the last decades but systematic approaches are warranted to ensure the validity and reliability of these measures. This study has an innovative approach, and the aim was to develop a new versatile jig including reference force sensors for both the calibration and validation of mutual static and dynamic stroke forces as measured with instrumented paddles at the high force levels used in elite sprint kayaking. Methods: A jig was constructed using a modified gym weight stack and a frame consisting of aluminum profiles permitting a fastening of custom-made kayak paddle shaft and blade support devices with certified force transducers combined with a data acquisition system to record blade and hand forces during static (constant load) and dynamic conditions (by paddle stroke simulation). A linear motion path incorporating a ball-bearing equipped carriage with sensors for the measurement of vertical distance and horizontal displacement was attached to the frame for recordings of various position measures on the paddle. The jig design with all components is extensively described to permit replication. The procedures for assessing the accuracy of the jig force instrumentation are reported, and with one brand of instrumented paddle used as an example, methods are described for force calibration and validation during static and dynamic conditions. Results: The results illustrate that the measured force with the jig instrumentation was similar to the applied force, calculated from the applied accurate mass (within a −1.4 to 1.8% difference) and similar to the force as calculated from the applied mass with the weight stack (within a −0.57 to 1.16% difference). The jig was suitable for the calibration and validation of forces in a range relevant for elite sprint kayaking under both static and dynamic conditions. During static conditions with a force direction equal to the calibration conditions and a force range from 98 to 590 N, all values for the instrumented paddle were within a −3.4 to 3.0% difference from the jig sensor values and 28 of 36 values were within ±2%. During dynamic conditions with paddle stroke simulations at 60 and 100 strokes/min and a target peak force of 400 N, the common force variables as measured by the instrumented paddle were not significantly different from the same measures by the jig (values at 100 strokes/min: peak force; 406.9 ± 18.4 vs. 401.9 ± 17.2 N, mean force; 212.8 ± 15.4 vs. 212.0 ± 14.4 N, time to peak force; 0.17 ± 0.02 vs. 0.18 ± 0.02 s, force impulse; 90.8 ± 11.2 vs. 90.5 ± 10.8 Ns, impulse duration; 0.43 ± 0.03 vs. 0.43 ± 0.03 s). Conclusion: A novel jig with several new functions is presented that enables the calibration and validation of force measurements with instrumented paddles by providing standardized conditions for calibration and force validation during both static and dynamic conditions in a force range relevant to elite sprint kayaking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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13 pages, 5764 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effects of Fatigue and Unanticipated Factors on Knee Joint Biomechanics in Female Basketball Players during Cutting

by Aojie Zhu, Shunxiang Gao, Li Huang, Hairong Chen, Qiaolin Zhang, Dong Sun and Yaodong Gu

Sensors 2024, 24(14), 4759; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24144759 - 22 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1065

Abstract

(1) This study examined the impact of fatigue and unanticipated factors on knee biomechanics during sidestep cutting and lateral shuffling in female basketball players, assessing the potential for non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. (2) Twenty-four female basketball players underwent fatigue induction and [...] Read more.

(1) This study examined the impact of fatigue and unanticipated factors on knee biomechanics during sidestep cutting and lateral shuffling in female basketball players, assessing the potential for non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. (2) Twenty-four female basketball players underwent fatigue induction and unanticipated change of direction tests, and kinematic and kinetic parameters were collected before and after fatigue with a Vicon motion capture system and Kistler ground reaction force (GRF) sensor. (3) Analysis using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA showed no significant interaction between fatigue and unanticipated factors on joint kinematics and kinetics. Unanticipated conditions significantly increased the knee joint flexion and extension angle (p < 0.01), decreased the knee flexion moment under anticipated conditions, and increased the knee valgus moment after fatigue (p ≤ 0.05). One-dimensional statistical parametric mapping (SPM1d) results indicated significant differences in GRF during sidestep cutting and knee inversion and rotation moments during lateral shuffling post-fatigue. (4) Unanticipated factors had a greater impact on knee load patterns, raising ACL injury risk. Fatigue and unanticipated factors were independent risk factors and should be considered separately in training programs to prevent lower limb injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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10 pages, 1962 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clustering Runners’ Response to Different Midsole Stack Heights: A Field Study

by Jannik Koegel, Stacy Huerta, Markus Gambietz, Martin Ullrich, Christian Heyde, Eva Dorschky and Bjoern Eskofier

Sensors 2024, 24(14), 4694; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24144694 - 19 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1217

Abstract

Advanced footwear technology featuring stack heights higher than 30 mm has been proven to improve running economy in elite and recreational runners. While it is understood that the physiological benefit is highly individual, the individual biomechanical response to different stack heights remains unclear. [...] Read more.

Advanced footwear technology featuring stack heights higher than 30 mm has been proven to improve running economy in elite and recreational runners. While it is understood that the physiological benefit is highly individual, the individual biomechanical response to different stack heights remains unclear. Thirty-one runners performed running trials with three different shoe conditions of 25 mm, 35 mm, and 45 mm stack height on an outdoor running course wearing a STRYD sensor. The STRYD running variables for each participant were normalized to the 25 mm shoe condition and used to cluster participants into three distinct groups. Each cluster showed unique running patterns, with leg spring stiffness and vertical oscillation contributing most to the variance. No significant differences were found between clusters in terms of body height, body weight, leg length, and running speed. This study indicates that runners change running patterns individually when running with footwear featuring different stack heights. Clustering these patterns can help understand subgroups of runners and potentially support running shoe recommendations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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10 pages, 839 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using a Sensor-Embedded Baseball to Identify Finger Characteristics Related to Spin Rate and Pitching Velocity in Pitchers

by Ming-Chia Yeh, Wen-Wen Yang, Yu-Hsuan Hung, Ya-Chen Liu, Jung-Tang Kung, Hsi-Pin Ma and Chiang Liu

Sensors 2024, 24(11), 3523; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24113523 - 30 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1142

Abstract

Background: Previous investigations have shown a positive relationship between baseball pitching velocity and the kinetic chain involved in pitching motion. However, no study has examined the influence of finger characteristics on pitching velocity and rate of spin via a sensor-embedded baseball. Methods: Twenty-one [...] Read more.

Background: Previous investigations have shown a positive relationship between baseball pitching velocity and the kinetic chain involved in pitching motion. However, no study has examined the influence of finger characteristics on pitching velocity and rate of spin via a sensor-embedded baseball. Methods: Twenty-one pitchers volunteered and were recruited for this study. An experimental baseball embedded with a force sensor and an inertial measurement unit was designed for pitching performance measurement. Finger length and strength were measured as dependent variables. Spin rate and velocity were independent variables. Pearson product–moment correlations (r) and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) determined the relationship between finger characteristics and pitching performance. Results: Finger length discrepancy, two-point pinch strength, index finger RFD (rate of force development), middle finger impulse, and force discrepancy had significant correlations with spin rate (r = 0.500~0.576, p ≤ 0.05). Finger length discrepancy, two-point pinch, three-point pinch strength, index and middle finger RFD, middle finger impulse, and force combination had significant correlations with fastball pitching velocity (r = 0.491~0.584, p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: Finger length discrepancy, finger pinch strength, and pitching finger force including maximal force and RFD may be factors that impact fastball spin rate and fastball pitching velocity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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17 pages, 1766 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Impact of Implementing an Exercise Program Using Fitlight Technology for the Development of Upper Limb Coordinative Abilities in Basketball Players

by Norbert Steff, Dana Badau and Adela Badau

Sensors 2024, 24(11), 3482; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24113482 - 28 May 2024

Viewed by 1003

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of implementing a basketball-specific exercise program using Fitlight technology on the coordinative abilities (reactive coordination, reactive reaction time, and reactive movement combination capacity) of U14 and U16 junior basketball players. This study included [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of implementing a basketball-specific exercise program using Fitlight technology on the coordinative abilities (reactive coordination, reactive reaction time, and reactive movement combination capacity) of U14 and U16 junior basketball players. This study included 70 male basketball players, 36 subjects U14 and 34 subjects U16, divided into two equal groups for each age category: the experimental group (EG) and the control group (CG). This study included an initial and a final test, between which, training was conducted over a period of 18 weeks. For the EG, the program aimed to develop coordinative abilities through an experimental program that utilized Fitlight technology, while the control groups underwent an identically timed program, but their training did not include the use of technology. Four tests were adapted and applied: the Reactive Reaction Test, Choice Reactive Reaction Test, Reactive Hand–Eye Coordination Test, and a test to evaluate the reactive capacity for combining movements. The results of this study showed statistically significant progress between the initial and final tests for the experimental group, p < 0.05. The Cohen’s d values for the experimental groups were above 0.8, indicating a very large effect size, while for the control group, these values were small to medium. The comparative analysis of the experimental groups U14 and U16 and control groups shows statistically significant differences in favor of the experimental groups U14 and U16. This study highlights the effectiveness of implementing specific training programs that use modern technologies in developing coordinative abilities in the training and evaluation process of junior basketball players. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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15 pages, 2165 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kinematics of the Tennis Serve Using an Optoelectronic Motion Capture System: Are There Correlations between Joint Angles and Racket Velocity?

by Julien Jacquier-Bret and Philippe Gorce

Sensors 2024, 24(11), 3292; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24113292 - 22 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1403

Abstract

The serve is the most important stroke in tennis. It is a complex gesture consisting of numerous rotations with a wide amplitude, which are important to manage for performance. The aim of this study was to investigate whether correlations exist between joint kinematic [...] Read more.

The serve is the most important stroke in tennis. It is a complex gesture consisting of numerous rotations with a wide amplitude, which are important to manage for performance. The aim of this study was to investigate whether correlations exist between joint kinematic parameters and racket velocity. A quantitative kinematics analysis of four ranked players (two boys and two girls) was carried out using an optoelectronic system composed of 10 cameras (150 Hz). Five flat serves per player were analyzed. Eighty-two markers were located across the 15 body segments and on the racket. A descriptive statistical analysis including a correlation analysis was carried out between joint angles and racket kinematic parameters (vertical position, velocity, and acceleration) during the cocking and acceleration phases. Ten very high (0.7 < r < 0.9) and three almost perfect (r > 0.9) correlations were found. Shoulder and hip axial rotations, knee flexion, and trunk extension were correlated linearly with racket vertical position and velocity during the cocking phase. For the acceleration phase, elbow flexion, trunk flexion/extension, and trunk axial rotation were linked to racket kinematics. Some of these parameters showed differences between slow and fast serves. These parameters, which are involved in transmitting ball velocity, are important to consider for tennis players and coaches in training programs, education, and performance enhancement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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19 pages, 5675 KiB

Open AccessReview

Research Progress on Applying Intelligent Sensors in Sports Science

by Jingjing Zhao, Yulong Yang, Leng Bo, Jiantao Qi and Yongqiang Zhu

Sensors 2024, 24(22), 7338; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24227338 - 17 Nov 2024

Viewed by 319

Abstract

Smart sensors represent a significant advancement in modern sports science, and their effective use enhances the ability to monitor and analyze athlete performance in real time. The integration of these sensors has enhanced the accuracy of data collection related to physical activity, biomechanics, [...] Read more.

Smart sensors represent a significant advancement in modern sports science, and their effective use enhances the ability to monitor and analyze athlete performance in real time. The integration of these sensors has enhanced the accuracy of data collection related to physical activity, biomechanics, and physiological responses, thus providing valuable insights for performance optimization, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. This paper provides an overview of the research progress in the application of smart sensors in the field of sports science; highlights the current advances, challenges, and future directions in the deployment of smart sensor technologies; and anticipates their transformative impact on sports science and athlete development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Techniques and Methods for Sports Science)

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