Article

Determination of critical parameters among elite female shot putters

July 2005
Sports Biomechanics 4(2):131-148

Authors:

Michael Young

Athletic Lab

Li Li

Georgia Southern University

The aim of this study was to determine if critical parameters for elite performance could be identified among a population of female shot putters. The performance of seven of the top women shot putters competing at the 2002 USA National Championships was examined. Video data were captured using two Panasonic 60 Hz cameras and the best throws of each athlete were digitized and analyzed using a Peak Motus three-dimensional motion analysis system. Thirty variables were examined for their effect on the distance of the throw. Correlation analysis indicated that measured distance was positively correlated with release speed (r = 0.97, p < 0.0003) and shoulder-hip separation (r = 0.72, p < 0.06) and negatively correlated with release angle (r = -0.74, p < 0.056), rear knee angle at rear foot touchdown (r = -0.93, p < 0.003) and rear knee angle at release (r = -0.76, p < 0.047). Greater knee flexion angle at both rear foot touch down and release along with a neutral shoulder-hip angle at release were identified as the most critical parameters for success among this sample of elite women shot putters. The unique observation about the knee positions at specific events should assist in new training and coaching developments.

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTS OF HIP JOINT RANGE OF MOTION AND TRUNK ROTATION ON THROWING BIOMECHANICS IN SHOT-PUT THROWERS: A PILOT STUDY

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2019
ACTA MEDICA MEDITERR

Introduction: The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between the hip and trunk range of motions through throwing kinematics. Material and methods: Nine male and nine female shot putters voluntarily participated to this study. The throws of each athlete were recorded by a camera at 50 Hz and handled with Skill Spector V1.3.2 and Dartfish Team Pro 5.5 programs. The collected data was used to determine the relationship between the hip and trunk movements of the participants and their goniometric measurements. Results: It was found that there was a positive relation between right (r .71 male; r .69 female) and left (r .79 male; r .74 female) foot velocity with height of release in both male and female athletes. A positive relation between trunk rotation towards left and throwing angle (r .77) and right hip abduction and angle of release (r .77) in female athletes was also observed; there was no such a relationship in male athletes. In female athletes, a positive relation was observed between throwing velocity (r .82) and distance (r .72) and right lateral flexion of the athletes. There was also a relation between the throwing angle and right and left hips external and internal rotation of the female athletes (IR right r .70; IR left r .77; ER right r-.79; ER left r-.79); in addition, a negative relation between left hip flexion and angle of release (r-.89) was observed. Whereas there was no such a relation in male athletes. Conclusion: According to our preliminary results, we infer that female athletes should pay more attention to throwing technique since body position seems to influence throwing kinematics more than male athletes.

INFLUENCE OF ANTHROPOMETRIC AND KINEMATIC PARAMETERS ON RESULT SUCCESSFULNESS OF SHOT PUT FINALISTS (WC BERLIN 2009-DAEGU 2011)

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2019

Development and Application of an Optimization Model for Elite Level Shot Putting

Article

Apr 2009

Michael Young

Aplicación de la biomecánica a la optimización de la técnica del lanzamiento de peso [Biomechanics applied to optimize sport technique. An example for shot put]

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2012

This paper describes the shot put technique and the steps to optimize it. First of all, it performs a brief introduction about the importance of technique training. Next, it presents and describes the steps required to optimize the sport technique: technical analysis, modeling, and feedback production. This document can help coaches to improve the performance of their athletes. Specifically, it can help coaches to improve the compression of shot put technique. Resumen: En el presente trabajo se describe la técnica del lanzamiento de peso y los pasos a seguir para optimizar la técnica. En primer lugar, se realiza una breve introducción sobre la importancia del entrenamiento de la técnica. Posteriormente, se exponen y describen los pasos a realizar para la optimización de una técnica deportiva: análisis de la técnica, modelado de la técnica, y producción de feedback al deportista. Este documento puede ayudar a los entrenadores a mejorar el rendimiento en competición de sus deportistas. De forma específica, puede ayudar a mejorar la compresión de la prueba atlética de lanzamiento de peso.

Using sport science to improve coaching: A case study of Felisha Johnson’s Road to Rio

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2021

During a shot put, there are different finite variables that can be controlled by the thrower, including release angle, release height, release direction, and release velocity. Previous studies have determined thresholds of release velocity necessary for achieving certain distances, and this case study sought to expand upon that concept. Conclusions from key biomechanical data can make a significant difference in the performance of athletes in the shot put if properly understood by coaches. By utilizing this scientific approach to the shot put event, the throws coach will be able to determine more accurate adjustments and devise training stimuli to better accommodate the athlete. In this case study, researchers and the coach attempted to bridge the gap in the approach to teaching and coaching the glide shot put by using a physics-based equation regarding projectile motion in tandem with biomechanical analyses. The use of immediate feedback via video analysis was an essential part the coaching and teaching system. The athlete’s release angles decreased, and her maximum release velocities increased from 12.5 m/s in 2015 to 13.1 m/s in 2016. This USATF coaching education shot put project is an example in which the cooperation between sport science and coaching helped to produce an Olympic berth (19.24 m) by Felisha Johnson in the women’s shot put in 2016.

Muscle activation sequencing of leg muscles during linear glide shot putting

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2017

In the shot put, the athlete’s muscles are responsible for generating the impulses to move the athlete and project the shot into the air. Information on phasic muscle activity is lacking for the glide shot put event and therefore important technical information for coaches is not currently available. This study provides an electromyography (EMG) analysis of the muscle activity of the legs during shot put. Fifteen right-handed Irish national level shot putters performed six maximum effort throws using the glide shot put technique. EMG records of eight bilateral lower limb muscles (rectus femoris, biceps femoris, medial- and lateral-gastrocnemius) were obtained during trials. Analysis using smooth EMG linear envelopes revealed patterns of muscle activity across the phases of the throw and compare men and women performers. The results showed that the preferred leg rectus femoris, the preferred leg biceps femoris and the non-preferred leg biceps femoris play important roles in the glide technique, with the total duration of high volumes of activity between 34 and 53% of the throw cycle. A comprehensive understanding of movement and muscle activation patterns for coaches could be helpful to facilitate optimal technique throughout each of the key phases of the event.

The Kinematic Analysis of Gliding Type and Delivery Phase in Each Trails during Shot-Putting - Focusing on Lee, Hyung-Keun, Player in Men's High School Youth Group -

Article

Jun 2012

The purpose of this study was to provide information about kinematic variables of the gliding and delivery motion of Hyung-Keun Lee, a high school shot putter who was ranked 1st at the 2011 National Sports Festivals. Three-Dimensional motion analysis using a system of 4 video cameras at a sampling frequency of 60 Hz was conducted during shot-putting events at the 2011 National Sports Festivals. During the gliding and delivery phase of the player the results showed following characteristics; 1) The gliding technique types of the player appeared to be the short-long technique as the gliding and stance length ratio were 42.3?3.87 % and 57.7?3.87 %, respectively. In addition, the trajectory of shots during the gliding and delivery phase showed different trajectory patterns with "S-shaped" type of elite players due to the deviation from a central axis of the APSS (athletic-plus shot system). 2) The horizontal velocity of COG made from gliding should maintain the velocity during transition and release phase, but the player showed a small momentum for a gradual decrease of velocity. 3) Therefore, the player requires to adjust an appropriate ratio between gliding and stance length with a strong muscle power at the trunk, throwing arm, and the lower extremity during gliding and delivery phase.

Using Sports Science and Training Theory to Develop Elite Performance: A Case Study of a 2005 World Championship Finalist in the Women's Shot Put

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2011

Conclusions from biomechanical data can make a significant difference in the performance of athletes in the shot put if properly understood by coaches. By utilizing this scientific approach, the throws coach will be able to determine more accurate adjustments and devise training stimuli to better accommodate the athlete. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of a comprehensive training protocol on a performer that integrated physical capacity development and technical interventions based on a quantitative biomechanical analysis. In this case study, we have attempted to bridge the gap between the researcher and the coach in our approach to teaching and training the shot put, by integrating biomechanical analysis. This USATF Women's development shot put project is an example, in which the cooperation between sport science and coaching helped to produce a World Championship (18.58 m) berth by Elizabeth Wanless in the women's shot put in 2005.

The Analysis of Kinematic Difference in Glide and Delivery Phase for the High School Male Shot Putter's Records classified by Year

Article

Dec 2013

The purpose of this study was to provide high school male shot putters training methods of gliding and delivery motion through comparative analysis of kinematic characteristics. To accomplish this purpose, three dimensional motion analysis was performed for the subjects(PKC, KKH, YDL) who participated in high school male shot putter competition on 92nd (2011), 93rd (2013) National Sports Festival. The subjects were filmed by four Sony HXR-MC2000 video cameras with 60 fields/s. The three-dimensional kinematic data of the glide, conversion and delivery phase were obtained by Kwon3d 3.1 version. The data of the shoulder rotational angles and projection angles were calculated with Matlab R2009a. The following conclusions had been made. With the analysis of the gliding and stance length ratio, the gliding length was shorter at the TG than the SG with short-long technique but the gliding and stance length ratio was 46.8:53.2% respectively. The deviation of the shots trajectory from APSS(Athlete-plus-shot-system) revealed that the PKC showed similar to "n-a-b-c-I" of skilled S-shape type, KKH and YDL showed "n-a-d-f-I'" of unskilled type. Furthermore, they showed smaller radial distance from the central axis of the APSS and the shots were away from the linear trajectory. From this characteristics, The PKC who performed more TG than SG had shorter glide with S-shape of APSS(skilled type) showed the better record than others with technical skill. But KKH and YDL had bigger glide ratio with "n-a-d-f-I'" of unskilled type and improved their records with technical factor. The projection factor had an effect on the record directly. Because PKC maintained more lower glide and transition posture with momentum transfer through COG's rapid horizontal velocity respectively the subject possessed the characteristics of high horizontal and vertical velocity with large turning radius from shot putter to APSS.

The relationship between discus throwing performance and combinations of selected technical parameters

Article

Jun 2008

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between discus throwing performance and the following technical parameters: hip-shoulder and shoulder-arm separation, trunk forward-backward tilt, throwing-arm elevation angles, and the absolute and relative throwing procedure phase times. Videographic data of 51 male and 53 female discus throwers' competitive performances were captured during major meets. The three-dimensional coordinates of 21 body landmarks and the discus were obtained for each thrower's best trial using direct linear transformation. The technical parameters were reduced from the three-dimensional data at six critical instants during the throwing procedure. Hierarchical stepwise multiple regression analyses were performed to determine the relative influence of linear combinations of the technical parameters on discus throwing performance. Specific techniques associated with linear combinations of certain technical parameters were identified using canonical correlations. Males and females were analysed separately. Suggestions for controlling the height of release and the vertical component of the speed of release using an effective technique are made.

MANIPULATING IMPLEMENT WEIGHT DURING WARMUP TO IMPROVE SHOT PUT PERFORMANCE

Conference Paper

Full-text available

Jul 2023

The purpose of this study was to evaluate kinematics and kinetics of the shot put when participants warmup using standard, overweight, or underweight implements. Ten collegiate shot putters warmed up using regulation, heavy, or light implements then completed six maximal effort competition throws. Whole body kinematics and ground reaction forces were recorded on each throw. Consistent with the literature, throw distance was significantly further after warming up with the heavy implement (p = .002). However, there were no differences in critical kinematic factors or ground reaction forces between conditions. While using overweight implements during warmup improves shot put performance, the mechanism by which this occurs is not through altering the critical factors or forces produced during the throw.

Maximal Strength on Bench Press and Trunk Rotation in Adapted Shot-put: A pilot investigation.

Article

Full-text available

May 2023

PURPOSE: Shot-put is a complex ballistic movement that involves segments’ translational and rotational motions. Its goal is to release the shot at maximum forward velocity (strength) at an angle of approximately 40º (rotation). Considering the adapted shot-put, those two components could be more limited in action. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the correlations among the one-repetition maximum (1RM) test in the bench press (BP1RM) and trunk rotation (TR1RM) and the throwing distance of the adapted shotput and body composition (Fat mass and Fat-free mass [FFM]), and the throwing distance of the adapted shot-put (TD) and 1RM results.METHODS: Eighteen non-professional athletes were evaluated, and their anthropometric data were obtained (bio-impedance measurements). Afterward, the participants performed the BP1RM and TR1RM exercises. Finally, they performed the adapted shot-put in similar conditions as the official competitions, where three trials of ASP were performed, and the best of these trials were assessed.RESULTS: The results showed a significant relationship between the throwing distance and 1RM results for both exercises (BP1RM ( p =.040) and TR1RM ( p =.002)) and with the amount of FFM ( p =.045). Concerning FFM relationships, the results showed a positive relationship with both 1RM exercises (BP1RM ( p =.034) and TR1RM ( p =.003)). The Fat Mass results demonstrated an inverse correlation only with BP1RM ( p =.035).CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that physical preparation, including BP1RM and TR1RM exercises, are fundamental to improving adapted shot-put performance. This showed preliminary indicators of which variables may influence the adapted shot-put that might help coaches and athletes to improve their performance. Nevertheless, those results should be carefully considered since the movement evaluated was very complex, especially when performed by participants unfamiliar with them, and because the same analysis included both sexes.

Biomechanical Analysis of Top Discus Throwers Performance In Egypt

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2011

PREVALENCE OF MULTIDIRECTIONAL SHOULDER INSTABILITY IN SHOT PUT THROWERS

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2020

Objective: The objective of this study was to find out whether there was any shoulder instability prevailing in the shot put throwers due to the rotational activities achieved in the respective sport. Methods: A total of 76 shot put throwers were recruited for the study. The multidirectional instability of the shoulder joint was tested by performing special tests. Results: The study revealed that out of 76 shot put throwers, 49 individuals were found to be having shoulder instability, and 27 individuals were not having shoulder instability. This was confirmed by using a special test like the Sulcus sign and Rowe test followed by statistical analysis. The individuals diagnosed with multidirectional instability showed Sulcus sign and Rowe test positive, of which 30 individuals showed both the test positive and 19 individuals showed only Rowe test positive. Conclusion: About 64.47% of individuals were diagnosed with multidirectional instability in the shot put throwers while the rest 35.52% of individuals showed no signs of instability.

Rotational shot put: A phase analysis of current kinematic knowledge

Article

Full-text available

Jul 2019

The biomechanics of the rotational shot put are used to direct coaching to enhance throwing performance. Maximising shot put distance and velocity at the point of release through increasing momentum is of interest to coaches. This narrative review aimed to examine and summarise the critical kinematic variables within each of the six phases of rotational shot put associated with performance and release velocity. Databases were searched using ‘shot put’, ‘biomechanics’ and ‘track and field throwing’, from which 20 articles based on the inclusion criteria were reviewed. The results indicate that the magnitude of transverse thrower-shot angular momentum and thrower-shots path of translation are crucial to performance. In achieving high angular momentum, sweep leg and arm actions need to be well timed and their timings and movement likely determine key biomechanical events such as hip to shoulder separations. Generating high release velocities stems from the development and transference of momentum through each phase. Kinematics and kinetics within each phase are co-dependent within and across each phase; therefore, coaches should consider the biomechanics of an athlete through preceding phases when seeking biomechanical change within a given phase. Further research and consideration of kinetics and energy transfer would add value to kinematic observations

Multijoint Musculoarticular Stiffness Derived From a Perturbation Is Highly Variable

Article

May 2019

Schofield, M, Tinwala, F, Cronin, J, Hébert-Losier, K, and Uthoff, A. Multijoint musculoarticular stiffness derived from a perturbation is highly variable. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2019-Testing musculoarticular stiffness may provide insights into multijoint elastic properties. Yet, most research has focused on quantifying stiffness, or elastic potential, at a single joint. The purpose of this study was to quantify the test-retest reliability of musculoarticular stiffness derived from the perturbation technique across the bench pull, bench press, and squat movements. Eight resistance-trained men performed bench pull, bench press, and squat repetition maximums, after which a perturbation protocol was tested over multiple days. During the 3 movements, a brief perturbation was applied to the bar. The resulting sinusoidal wave was measured by an underbench force plate and a linear position transducer attached to the bar. From the sinusoidal wave, stiffness was derived and found to be unreliable across movements and days (change in mean: -35.1 to 15.8%; coefficient of variation: 7.1-111%; intraclass correlation: -0.58 to -0.89). Squat data were removed from the analysis entirely because of the inability to consistently determine the perturbations on the force plate. Practitioners need to be aware that musculoarticular stiffness as measured using the perturbation technique on the movements performed in this study has considerable limitations in terms of reproducibility.

The differences of some anthropometrics and kinematic parameters in shot put finalists World championship in athletics (Berlin, 2009- Daegu 2011)

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2019

Ratko Pavlović

JASPE-21-5-14-c

Article

Mar 2019

Ratko Pavlović

Purpose: Kinematic parameters often crucially influence the performance in athletic throwers disciplines. This is especially evident for top athletes who have almost identical morphological, motor and functional parameters. The differences that affect the sporting result are generally attributed to a better performance technique that is often the consequence of the different values of the individual's kinematic parameters. The actual research was carried out with finalists WCh in Shot-put (Berlin, 2009. and Daegu, 2011) for aim the order to determine the differences between anthropometric and kinematic parameters of relase (velocity, height, angle). This surveyincluded a total of 32 competitors, of whom 16 were male finalists (height, 192,13±7,61cm; weight 133,44±14,85kg) and 16 female finalists (height,182,94±6,31cm; weight95,81±14,28kg). The results were obtained by applying the T-test module for small independent samples, confirming the differences between men and women's finalists in Berlin, 2009 and Daegu, 2011. Statistically significant differences were recorded four kinematic parameters (80%), in the following kinematic parameters: relase velocity (T=2,625; p<0,05), relase height (T=3,506; p<0,01), body height (T=3,694; p<0,01),body weight (T=7,246; p<0,01). Not significant kinematic parameter relase angle (T=-1,017; p>0,01; 0,05).

Comparison of shot-put release parameters and consistency in performance between elite throwers with and without intellectual impairment

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2018

Background Shot-put is one of the events in which athletes with intellectual impairment compete at the Paralympic Games, since their re-inclusion in 2012. The purpose of this study was to compare the competition performance and investigate differences in release parameters and consistency of performance between high level shot-put throwers with and without intellectual impairment. Methods Data collection took place at the 2014 European Championships athletics for athletes with intellectual impairment (n = 20; 11 men, 9 women, MIQ = 60.2 ± 7.3, Mage = 28.1 ± 6.7 years), and the 2015 national championships for athletes without intellectual impairment (n = 26, 12 men, 14 women, Mage = 24.9 ± 5.6 years). A video camera operating at 100 Hz was utilized to capture the throws and 2D images were analyzed with motion analysis software to calculate release parameters and check consistency of the throw. Results Independent t tests revealed that the average (11.87 m) and best (14.81 m) performance of male world-class intellectual impairment-throwers was significantly lower compared to the average (14.62 m) and best (17.78 m) performance of male national level throwers without intellectual impairment (F = 5.3, p < .05), primarily due to the significantly lower release velocity (r = .79, p < .01). The inter-individual variance in throw-to-throw distance was significantly larger in intellectual impairment-throwers; however, opposite to what was expected, the angle of release consistency was not significantly different between both samples. Intellectual impairment-throwers performed with superior release velocity consistency than non-intellectual impairment-throwers. Conclusions These findings support the assumption that impaired cognitive function may constrain the ability to optimally release the shot-put.

The application of data analysis methods for surface electromyography in shot putting and sprinting

Thesis

Full-text available

Nov 2017

Róisín Howard

Muscles are the key drivers in any human movement. Since the muscles generate the forces and consequently the impulses to move the athlete from one position to another, it can be useful to study the muscle activity during sports movements to help with optimisation of technique, injury prevention and performance enhancements. Due to recent advances in electromyography (EMG) technologies, muscle activity in sports movement such as shot putting and overground sprinting can now be acquired using wireless surface mount sensors. Previously the use of tethered devices restricted the movements which could be analysed. The aim of this research was to investigate data analysis methods for use with EMG. There is a need to develop an in depth understanding of what EMG data can convey by understanding muscle activations and patterns in various sports movements and techniques. The research has been implemented by conducting a literature review, a survey and experimental studies to examine EMG signals on shot putting, sprinting and to understand cross-talk. There has been significant work done in understanding the biomechanics of sprinting, with emphasis on kinematics. The literature review on muscle activities in sprinting highlighted the need for wireless devices to allow testing of athletes in ecologically valid environments, rather than on a treadmill which offers little comparison with the environment of the sprinter, and proposed that there existed a bias on the muscles studied which may have been due to technology constraints of tethered systems. The survey of biomechanists gave an insight into the sensor devices utilised, the types of experimental studies being undertaken and the specifications desired in these devices. The study of muscle activations during the glide technique in shot put delivered meaningful activation patterns which coincided with key movements in the technique and augmented previously known kinematic data and anecdotal evidence. The study on muscle activations during maximal sprinting returned similar results, the 50% threshold provided information on the higher volume of muscle activity and these bursts of activity also coincided with key kinematic events. The use of independent component analysis (ICA) was examined to reduce cross-talk during sporting movements and recreating EMG signals due incorrectly positioned electrodes. Few studies have examined ICA with myoelectric signals. This research applies ICA to EMG signals during isometric contractions; small increases in correlation were found in some cases between the output signals and the ideal signals. The data analysis methods used in this research along with the supporting studies may prove to be a vital aid in supporting practitioners, coaches and athletes in the analysis of shot putting and sprinting using muscle activations and patterns. The thresholding methods used in this work may be useful in future studies to distinguish between low and high volumes of EMG activity in sports movements. It is recommended that future studies examine the muscle activity of specific exercises and compare the activity to that of sports movements to determine which exercises are most suitable in training and for pre-activation. The ICA algorithm should be examined further, to analyse isotonic movements.

Biomechanical Analysis of Top Discus Throwers Performance in Egypt

Article

Full-text available

Apr 2012

The purpose of the presented study is to determine the specific kinematical changes related to discus throw during each phase of performance and comparing it with the specific kinematical variables in each phase in the national champion with elite athletes. a biomechanical analysis was performed on the first place thrower (Omar el gazaly) at the national champion of Egypt 2011 (64.74 m), which is the 4th place during world cup champion 2006, and the first place in the African champion 2006, (PB 66.58m in 2007). All trails of the subject were recorded, but a kinematical analysis was established for the best three trails. Two video cameras (DCR-SR68 SONY) 60 FPS were focused on the circle, one camera took the thrower from the side of his throwing Arm (right handed) and the second one took his rear view related to the direction of throw. Both views covered a width of 5 m related to the center of the circle, and the analysis was performed by DARTFISH TEAM PRO 4 software program. The results show that, the delivery phase time of the subject was 0.18 sec during his best trail, which was 20 % of the total performance time, the discus resultant velocity was 25.4 m/s and the flight time was 0.08 sec during the three trails, and that was about 9-11 % of total performance time. the average angle of release in three trails was about (34. 4˚he height of release in the best trail was 1.76 m. the total performance time of three trails was 0.880 sec but his phases time characteristics were different.

Comparative Analysis from Perspective of Kinesiology between Korean Athletes and Gold and Bronze Medalists in Glide-Type Shot Put at Daegu World Athletic Championships in 2011

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2011

The purpose of this study was to analyze, in real time, the glide motion and release motion of domestic athletes and gold and bronze medalists employing the glide technique for the men's shot put at the Daegu World Athletic Championship in 2011. In the glide motion, the Korean athletes had a relatively high body center and shot put heights and lager stretching angles for their hips and knees. In the delivery phase, which shifts to the release phase, the Korean athletes showed slower vertical body center and shot put speeds, and they changed the phase, to the release phase by using a small body angle. In the release phase, the Korean athletes showed differences in their projection speeds and vertical body center speeds. The world-famous players showed high angle speeds, which refer to the composition of the rotation force at the moment of release (body, hip, and shoulder line). In the release phase, the Korean athletes did not have fully stretched hip and knee angles, which might have negatively influenced the vertical speed. Because the Korean athletes showed relatively low projection heights and projection angles. it was found that they need to enhance the muscular power of their, throwing arms and lower limbs.

The Kinematic Difference According to Success and Failure of Shot-Putting - Focusing on Member of the National Team, Hwang, In-sung, Player -

Article

Jun 2011

The purpose of this study was to identify biomechanical characteristics of glide and delivery motion of In-Sung Hwang, player who is a member of the national team among the finalists in the men's shot put at the 2010 National Sports Festivals. Three-Dimensional motion analysis using a system of 3 video cameras at a sampling frequency of 60 Hz was performed for this study. During the glide and delivery phase the results showed following characteristics; 1) The glide type was suitable for the short-long technique, but the trajectory of shot at the glide and delivery phase showed a different trajectory pattern with "S-shaped" type of elite players due to many deviating from central axis of the APSS(athletic-plus shot system). 2) Left knee was more flexed during failed trials compared to successful trials but COG was higher. Therefore, the player showed less stability of COG as he may not get enough breaking force at the left foot. 3) Furthermore, it would be required to have strong muscle power at the trunk, throwing arm, and the lower extremity in order to achieve maintain a low projection angle of the release.

How Can Sport Biomechanics Contribute to the Advance of World Record and Best Athletic Performance?

Article

Jul 2012
Meas Phys Educ Exerc Sci

Li Li

Modern history has evidence that sport biomechanics provide valuable contribution in the pursuit of “faster, higher, and stronger.” In this article, the contribution of sport biomechanics to the Olympic Games has been divided into three different categories: improve the physical capacity of the athletes, develop innovative techniques in a given sport, and help athletes interact with the environment more effectively. Those avenues will continue to be the paths that biomechanics contributes to the world of sports. Readers concerned about injury prevention should seek sources elsewhere, since it is not the focus of the authors in this article.

A Study of Angular Kinematics at Delivery Stance in Relation to Performance in Shot

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2017

Modern techniques of sports performance analysis enable the sport scientist, coach and athlete to objectively assess, and therefore improve upon sporting performance. They are an important tool for any serious practitioner in sport and, as a result, performance analysis has become a key component of degree programmes in sport science and sports coaching (Peter O’Donoghue, 2009). Shot put is a non-periodic throwing event which depends on strength and velocity. In this event both the glide and spin techniques are used to accelerate the implement. Many researchers in India and abroad did a lot of researches on delivery, and with the application of three -dimensional photography technology in the research in recent years, the form and essence of delivery are realized further by people. Although coaches and teachers made many bold attempts on training and teaching of shot with different weight and achieved great effectiveness, they were not aware of the essence of it. Several studies in shot put have examined the theory and practice of determining optimal release conditions, such as release speed, release angle and release height (Lichtenberg and Willis, 1978; McWatt, 1982; Maheras, 1995; Hubbard et al., 2001; Linthorne, 2001). Several other studies have speculated or made suggestions about the important parameters in achieving success in the shot put (Dessurealt, 1978; Lichtenberg et al., 1978; Knudson, 1989; Stepánek, 1990; Maheras, 1995; Alexander et al., 1996; Bartonietz, 1996; Liu et al., 2000; Hubbard et al., 2001; Linthorne, 2001). Alexander et al.(1996) concluded that speed of the centre of mass during glide, vertical acceleration of centre of mass during delivery, and trunk angle at the start of glide were the most important parameters to produce longer throws of male shot putters. Key Words: Shot Put, Angular Kinematics, Delivery Stance

Kinematic Characteristics of the Non-Throwing Arm During the Completion Phase of the Glide Shot Put in Elite Female Athletes: A Case Study

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2025

Background: This study analyzes the biomechanical contributions of the non-throwing arm during the completion phase of the glide shot put technique, focusing on its roles in performance optimization. Methods: Data from a Chinese elite female shot-putter were collected during a national championship, with three-dimensional kinematic analyses and Spearman correlation to assess joint displacement, velocity, and angular changes. Results: Distal joints of the non-throwing arm exhibited greater displacement but lower peak velocity than proximal joints. Angular changes showed a flexion trend in the elbow and shoulder, with brief extension phases in the elbow. During the completion phase, the shoulder velocity of the non-throwing arm positively correlated with shot put velocity (rs = 0.72, p < 0.05) but negatively correlated with the velocity of the elbow (rs = −0.46, p < 0.05), wrist (rs = −0.41, p < 0.05), and center of mass (rs = −0.66, p < 0.05). The elbow velocity positively correlated with shot put velocity (rs = 0.56, p < 0.05) but negatively correlated with velocities of the shoulder (rs = −0.59, p < 0.05), wrist (rs = −0.79, p < 0.05), and center of mass (rs = −0.91, p < 0.05). Wrist velocity exhibited similar correlations. Conclusions: These findings underscore the active role of the non-throwing arm in enhancing shot put performance by influencing the center of mass movement, rotational mechanics, and energy transfer, providing actionable guidance for elite training optimization.

A development model to guide the recruiting of female shot putters at the NCAA Division I Championship level

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2018

Donald G. Babbitt

Given the high stakes nature of NCAA athletics, it has become increasingly important for coaches to recruit athletes who can compete and make substantive contributions to a team’s success. The purpose of this study was to develop an analytic to predict the time it would take a high school female shot putter to contribute a score at the NCAA Championship meet based on her personal best high school performance. Performance data from high school and college performances were collected from NCAA women’s shot putters, who completed their eligibility from 2012–2017 (N = 63), and graphed to construct a trend line which plotted the top shot put performance of each individual from high school (y) against their best result from each of four or five years in collegiate competition (x). Strong correlations were found between high school and collegiate performance for the first three years of collegiate competition with statistical significance achieved at p < 0.0001. The correlation progressively decreased with each year of collegiate competition with years four and five of collegiate eligibility demonstrating a diminished statistical significance at p < 0.05. Minimum high school performances were calculated in order to produce a statistically significant result that could score for each place at the NCAA meet for a given amount of years competing in NCAA Division I track and field. The results provide track and field coaches with the first analytical model that can assist in determining a high school recruit’s ability to contribute valuable points at the most important competitions.

Use of inertial measurement units for measuring torso and pelvis orientation, and shoulder–pelvis separation angle in the discus throw

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2018

Wearable technologies, such as inertial measurement units, are being increasingly utilised in sport to provide immediate feedback to athletes and coaches on movement dynamics. This study examines the validity of inertial measurement units for measuring data pertinent to discus throwing namely shoulder–pelvis separation angle, and torso and pelvis transverse plane orientation. Five discus throwers performed 10 throws, while shoulder–pelvis separation angle, and torso and pelvis transverse plane orientation were measured simultaneously using a motion capture system and inertial measurement unit system. Time-series torso and pelvis orientation data were compared to determine the validity of the inertial measurement unit system for measuring the segment orientation. Discrete shoulder–pelvis separation angle data were compared to determine the validity of the inertial measurement unit system for measuring the discrete data pertinent to discus throwers and coaches. Discrete data examined were magnitudes of separation that occurred when the torso was maximally rotated to the left and right. Data were compared using root mean square difference and root mean square relative to angle range (RMS%). Bland–Altman analyses were also performed. Torso (RMS% = 3%) and pelvis (RMS% = 2%) orientation data agreed closely. Agreement was lower for separation angle (maximum left rotation RMS% = 9%; maximum right rotation RMS% = 13%). Bland–Altman biases indicate inertial measurement units underestimated segment orientation, underestimated maximum right rotation, and overestimated maximum left rotation. The protocol described was valid for measuring the torso and pelvis orientation. Separation angle validity was low, indicating differences in underlying modelling approaches. Further investigation is needed to examine more optimal sensor positioning, and novel ways of examining shoulder–pelvis dynamics.

The Predictive Significance of some Kinematical Parameters on the record Level of Male and Female Shot Put Competitors Under the Age of 18 years

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2014

Walid Soliman Elsaidy

This research aims to identify the relation between the values of some of kinematic variables and the achieved shot put distance of the male and female competitors under the age of 18, who participated in the republic championship season 2013, in addition to identifying effect of the most important kinematic variables on the achieved shot put distance. The research has been implemented on sample that consisted of 52 competitors who were divided into 31 male and 21 female. The researcher has used the descriptive methodology with survey method through video imaging, and analysis by using computer. According to the research's procedures and achieved results, it has been found that there are statistically significant correlations between the achieved shot put distances and variables of acceleration distance, height of release point and velocity of release for the male competitors. As well as, the results have shown that there are statistically significant correlations between the achieved shot put distances and variables of acceleration, height of release point, angle of release, angle of launching and velocity of release for the female competitors. The velocity of release has been the most effective variable on the achieved shot put distances for male and female competitors. In light of results, the researcher has set up two formulas in terms of the velocity of release to predict the achieved distance for male and female competitors.

Variables Associated with the of Personal Best Performance in the Glide and Spin Shot Put for U.S. Collegiate Throwers

Article

Apr 2012

The preseason one repetition maximums (1RM) for the bench press, back squat and power clean were collected from the coach of each 53 collegiate or elite athletes together with the subsequent personal best effort in the glide or spin shot put during the competitive season. The data was analyzed first via partial correlations (controlled for gender) and secondly through ratio of 1RM strength to distance thrown between the glide and rotational style athletes. Partial correlations controlled for gender revealed that preseason bench press (r=0.767, p Keywords: COACH EDUCATION; SHOT PUT; STRENGTH; THROWING; TRACK AND FIELD Document Type: Research Article Publication date: April 1, 2012 More about this publication? Editorial Board Information for Authors Subscribe to this Title Terms & Conditions ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites (document).ready(function() { var shortdescription = (".originaldescription").text().replace(/\\&/g, '&').replace(/\\, '<').replace(/\\>/g, '>').replace(/\\t/g, ' ').replace(/\\n/g, ''); if (shortdescription.length > 350){ shortdescription = "" + shortdescription.substring(0,250) + "... more"; }

(".descriptionitem").prepend(shortdescription);

(".shortdescription a").click(function() {

(".shortdescription").hide();

(".originaldescription").slideDown(); return false; }); }); Related content In this: publication By this: publisher In this Subject: Internal Medicine By this author: Judge, Lawrence W. ; Bellar, David GA_googleFillSlot("Horizontal_banner_bottom");

The associations of selected technical parameters with discus throwing performance: A cross-sectional study

Article

Oct 2007

The aim of this study was to identify associations between discus throwing performance and the technical parameters of: hip-shoulder and shoulder-arm separation, trunk forward-backward tilt, and throwing-arm elevation angles. Video data of male and female discus throwers' competitive performances were captured during major competitions. Real-life three-dimensional coordinates of 21 body landmarks, and the discus's centre, were obtained for 94 trials using the direct linear transformation procedure. Each technical parameter was reduced at six critical instants. The trend of each parameter across four standards of performance was analysed separately for both sexes. For the female throwers, hip-shoulder and shoulder-arm separations after the flight phase, as well as forward-backward trunk tilts at the beginning and end of the throwing procedure were associated with performance. For male throwers, only the hip-shoulder separation immediately before the flight phase was associated with performance. These findings suggest that the relationships between technical parameters and discus throwing performance are different for males and females. Our results suggest that elite female discus throwers are reliant on effective technique throughout the throwing procedure to achieve long distances, whereas male discus throwers may have a relatively homogeneous technique, and a dependence on physical strength to achieve their long throws.

THE EFFECTS OF KNEE ANGLE ON QUADRICEPS FEMORIS ACTIVATION AND KNEE EXTENSOR TORQUE

Article

Full-text available

A kinetic analysis of discus throwing techniques

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2002

The purposes of this study were to investigate (1) the relationships between official distance and selected ground reaction measures during discus throwing; and (2) the relationships between selected ground reactions and selected lower extremity joint kinetics. Three high-speed video cameras and three force plates were used to collect three-dimensional videographic and force plate data in this study. An inverse dynamic model was used to determine the lower extremity kinetics. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to determine relationships of the selected kinematic and kinetic measures with the official distance. Official distance was significantly correlated with ground reaction forces on the left foot during the first single-support phase, on the right foot during the second single-support phase and delivery phase, and on the left foot during the delivery phase. Also, the right-hip extension and internal rotation moments and left-knee extension moment during the delivery phase were significantly correlated with official distance. These results suggest that discus throwers should drive vigorously forward during the first single-support phase and increase the landing impact force on the right foot after flight. Also they should increase forward and rightward ground reaction force on the right foot and backward and vertical force on the left foot by powerful right-hip extension and internal rotation and left-knee extension during the delivery phase. These results provide critical information regarding the training of discus-throwing techniques, and the direction of future biomechanical studies on this event.

The Mathematics of Projectiles in Sport.

Article

Feb 1991

Biomechanics of Powerlifting and Weightlifting Exercises

Chapter

Jan 2000

Biomechanical analysis of the shotput

Chapter

Jan 1974

G. Marhold

It is essential that clear-cut target ideas for athletic techniques be formulated if we are to establish correct methods for both teaching and training. That aim, which is a rational approach to the solution of problems with an existing motor task, must be established and objectively represented as effectively for a long-term orientation as for an actual comparison. The athletic task, namely, to put a shot of a certain mass as far as possible under given conditions, is apparently an uncomplicated problem of coordination. Motor coordination, however, is implemented on the basis of a variable level of specific energetic capacities, thus necessitating new adaptations. Therefore, special energetic presuppositions are required to implement the progressive features of O’Brien’s technique. A higher level of power production, increased by systematic training, demands more highly developed technical qualities, as well as better coordination. Greater force potentials are transferred into the shot-put performance only in accordance with the adaptation of the specific movement patterns.

Biomechanical Analysis of Olympic Javelin Throwers

Article

May 1985

A two-dimensional film analysis was performed on five men and six women finalists in the javelin throw of the Los Angeles Olympic Games of 1984. In addition to the great interindividual variation in the measured kinematic and kinetic parameters, the results indicated that in men the winner had the highest release velocity of javelin (29.12 m × s−1), and that a significant (p < .01) relationship could be obtained between the release velocity and throwing distance. Despite great variation in throwing distance in women (55.88 m - 69.56 m) the release velocities were in relatively small range (20.73 m × s−1 - 23.62 m × s−1). High impact loading was specific to the last foot contact on the ground. It was characterized by a short duration (0.032 s) and high velocity knee flexion (12.66 ± 2.11 and 12.27 ± 3.81 rad × s−1, respectively, for men and women). The respective knee extension velocities averaged 5.80 ± 2.00 and 7.60 + 5.17 rad × s−1. Despite the fact that a small number of analyzed world-class throws rev...

Kinematic Analysis of Olympic Hurdle Performance: Women's 100 Meters

Article

May 1985

Selected kinematic variables in the performance of the Gold and Silver medalists and the eighth-place finisher in the women's 100-meter hurdles final at the 1984 Summer Olympic Games were investigated. Cinematographic records were obtained for all track hurdling events at the Games, with the 100-meter hurdle performers singled out for initial analysis. In this race, sagittal view filming records (100 fps) were collected at the 9th hurdle of the performance. Computer generated analysis variables included both direct performance variables (body velocity, support time, etc.) and body kinematics (upper leg position, lower leg velocity, etc.) that have previously been utilized in the analysis of elite athlete hurdlers. The difference in place finish was related to the performance variables body horizontal velocity (direct), vertical velocity (indirect), and support time (indirect). The critical body kinematics variables related to success included upper and lower leg velocity during support into and off the hurdle (direct), relative horizontal foot position (to the body) at touchdown into and off the hurdle (indirect), and relative horizontal foot velocity (to the body) at touchdown into the hurdle.

Structural and biomechanical factors differentiating between male and female shot put athletes

Article

Jan 1996

The shot put performance of skilled male and female collegiate throwers was examined to determine the similarities and differences in technique between the sexes. The overall objective of the study was to determine whether the same group of independent variables could predict performance in the shot event for both male and female subjects. If the same variables predict performance in both sexes, then it may be concluded that the factors affecting performance are similar betwen the sexes. Sixty-one athletes (males = 30, females = 31) were filmed from a sagittal view while competing in a shot competition, and seventy two variables were measured or calculated from film data. Although some of the variables were related to distance thrown, such as length of the glide, other variables such as angle of release and height of release were not found to be significant predictors of distance. The findings may be related to the skill level of this group of subjects, who were elite university throwers, but not international or world class athletes. However, the study does suggest that there are different aspects of technique which should be emphasized for female throwers, including knee extension during the glide, elbow velocity during the delivery, and a greater angle of shoulder flexion at release. For the male throwers, the CG velocity during the glide, the vertical acceleration of the CG during the delivery, and the trunk angle at the start of the glide are all important for producing longer throws.

The throwing events in track and field

Article

Jan 1989

Mont Hubbard

Technique analysis: Kinematic analysis of elite shot-putters

Article

Jan 1984

Kinematic Analysis of Olympic Sprint Performance: Men's 200 Meters

Article

May 1985

Selected kinematic variables in the performance of the Gold and Silver medalists and the eighth-place finisher in the men's 200-meter sprint final at the 1984 Summer Olympic Games were investigated. Cinematographic records were obtained for all track running events at the Games, with the 200-meter performers singled out for initial analysis. In this race, sagittal view filming records (100 fps) were collected at the middle (125-meter mark) and end (180-meter mark) of the performance. Computer-generated analysis variables included both direct performance variables (body velocity, stride rate, etc.) and upper and lower body kinematics (upper arm position, lower leg velocity, etc.) that have previously been utilized in the analysis of elite athlete sprinters. The difference in place finish was related to the performance variables body horizontal velocity (direct), stride rate (direct), and support time (indirect). The critical body kinematics variables related to success included upper leg angle at takeoff (indirect), upper leg velocity during support (direct), lower leg velocity at touchdown (direct), foot to body touchdown distance (indirect), and relative foot velocity at touchdown.

The Mathematics of Projectiles in Sport

Article

Jun 1991

Preface 1. Motion under gravity alone 2. Motion in a linear resisting medium 3. Motion in a non-linear resisting medium 4. The basic equations and their numerical solution 5. Small drag or small gravity 6. Corrections due to other effects 7. Spin effects 8. Projectiles in sport and recreation References Index.

Direct Linear Transformation from Comparator to Object Space Coordinates in Close-Range Pho-togramme

Article

Feb 2015
PHOTOGRAMM ENG REM S

A method for photogrammetric data reduction without the necessity for neither fiducial marks nor initial approximations for inner and outer orientation parameters of the camera has been developed. This approach is particularly suitable for reduction of data from non-metric photography, but has also distinct advantages in its application to metric photography. Preliminary fictitious data tests indicate that the approach is promising. Experiments with real data are underway.

THREE DIMENSIONAL KINEMATIC ANALYSIS IN WOMEN'S SHOT PUTT: INFLUENCE OF HEAD MOVEMENT ON TECHNIQUE

Article

The influence of head motion of shot put during competition was studied in this study. Six female elite shot putter was recruited as subjects in this study. Shots performed by six female elite shot putter were filmed. Three-dimensional analysis was employed to determine the angle of head, trunk, shoulder rotation and height of shot at different throwing phase. Results found that the raising of head position in every phase influenced the movements limb and trunk. Therefore, it is necessary for coach and athletes to pay more attention on the head movement in shot put. INTRODUCTION: The influence of head movement in sport has been the focus of considerable research, reflected in a study on the effect on track athletes, related to the crouch start (Li, 1992) and on the effect of neck movement on gymnastic performance (Gu,1996). Other studies have indicated that the head's movement plays an important role on bar clearance technique. However, until now, there have been no quantitative articles on the influence of head movements on shot put techniques. The paper intends to attract both coaches and athletes' attention to attitudinal reflex. By efficient training, the athletes' heads can be in a favorable position in every phase of throwing, allowing them to give full play to their techniques and to achieve the best results. METHODS: The subjects selected for this study were six female shot putters, either state or international athletes who attended the 8th National Games. The essential features of 6 shot putters are shown in Table 1.

Maximizing the range of the shot put

Article

Apr 1978

We address the problem of the optimum angle at which a putter should release the shot in order to achieve maximum distance.

The Relationship Between the Angle of Release and the Velocity of Release in the Shot-Put and the Application of a Theoretical Model to Estimate the Optimum Angle of Release

Article

Jan 1995

Andreas Vassilios Maheras

Given the relative importance of the angle of release in the shot-put event, the estimation of the optimum angle of release in a way that the distance thrown is maximized, is sought. Theory has shown that the optimum angle of release fluctuates between 41 and 43 degrees. Biomechanical analyses have indicated that shot-putters release their shots at angles between 32 and 38 degrees, with few cases reported in the above 40 degree category. As a result, a discrepancy between theory and practice has been observed. The purpose of the study was to examine whether a thrower specific dependency of the angle of release on the velocity of release exists in the shot-put event. Such dependency would probably make the theoretical model inapplicable to real life shot -putting. The agreement between the real life models and the theoretical model was also investigated. Five male, collegiate, shot-putters from four universities in the state of Kansas were employed. Each shot-putter threw under five different angles of release, from a very low to a very high. Each thrower attempted 10 throws in each of these five angles for a total of 50 throws. High speed videography was used to record the throwers' attempts. A Peak Performance system analysis along with a FORTRAN computer program were used to obtain the velocity, the angle, and the height of release for each of the 250 throws filmed. Correlational analyses were used to obtain the relationship between the obtained parameters. Multiple regression techniques were used to estimate the real life angle of release. For all five subjects there was a significant relationship between the angle of release and the velocity of release thus, showing dependency of the angle of release on the velocity of release. For all five subjects there was no agreement between the real life angles and those estimated by the theoretical model. It was concluded that at present, the theoretical model is not applicable in the shot-put event. The optimum release conditions other than velocity depend crucially on how the maximum achievable release velocity is functionally related to the other release conditions.

The Biomechanics of Sports Techniques

Chapter

Jan 1985

James G. Hay

Force-velocity relations and fiber composition in human extensor muscles

Article

Feb 1976
J Appl Physiol

Standardized measurements of dynamic strength of the kneee extensor muscles were performed in 25 healthy male subjects (17-37 yr) by means of isokinetic contractions, i.e., knee extensions with constant angular velocities. Overall variation between double determinations of maximal torque throughout the 90 degrees arc of motion (0 degrees = fully extended leg) averaged 10% for the different constant velocities chosen. At any given angle of the knee the torque produced was higher for isometric than for dynamic contractions. Dynamic torque decreased gradually with increased speed of shortening. Peak dynamic torque was reached at knee angles in the range: 55-66 degrees, with a displacement toward smaller knee angles with higher angular velocities. Correlations were demonstrated between peak torque produced at the highest speed of muscle shortening and percent as well as relative area of fast twitch fibers in the contracting muscle. In addition muscles with a high percentage of fast twitch fibers had the highest maximal contraction speeds. These observations on intact human skeletal muscle are consistent with earlier findings in animal skeletal muscle preparations.

The relationship between muscle strength and sprint kinematics in elite sprinters

Article

Oct 1989
J Canad Sci Sport

M J Alexander

Twenty-three elite sprinters, 9 females and 14 males, were filmed while performing a maximal sprint. Age, height, weight, and personal best 100 m time were also determined for each sprinter. Several kinematic variables were calculated for each athlete from the filmed sprint, including stride length, stride frequency, horizontal and vertical velocity of the CG, and the angular kinematics of the limbs. A Kin/Com isokinetic dynamometer was used to determine lower limb peak and average torque values. Correlation coefficients were calculated between each of the kinematic variables and each of the strength variables. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was also carried out for each set of kinematic and strength variables, to determine the best predictors of sprinting speed. Significant relationships were noted between sprinting times for the 100 m and peak torque scores (N.m/kg) for males for fast concentric knee extension and slow eccentric dorsiflexion, and for females for concentric dorsiflexion at both speeds, and slow eccentric dorsiflexion.

Measurement & reduction of noise in kinematics of locomotion

Article

Apr 1974
J BIOMECH

All kinematic studies utilize data obtained from some type of measurement and data reduction system, which inherently adds noise to the spatial signal. Although this noise may not be visibly evident in the spatial trajectories, it can cause large inaccuracies when velocities and accelerations are determined by direct differentiation. Therefore, some form of data treatment, such as filtering, must be developed to decrease the noise content. The design of such filters requires knowledge of the frequency spectrum of the signal and noise.Utilizing data obtained from a television tracking system a spectral analysis of the trajectories of 7 body markers in the saggital plane, and of the knee angle as determined by 4 of these markers, was performed on 21 runs (8 subjects) of 2 or 3 strides each. Results indicate that, for the marker trajectories, 99·7 per cent of the signal power lies below the 8th harmonic. For the knee angle, 99·7 per cent of the signal power is contained below the 6th harmonic. Suitable low pass digital filtering reduces the higher frequency noise to such an extent that meaningful velocities and accelerations can be calculated by direct digital differentiation.

The variation in isometric tension with sarcomere length in vertebrate muscle bers

Article

May 1966

1. The variation of isometric tetanus tension with sarcomere length in single fibres from frog striated muscle has been re‐investigated with special precautions to ensure uniformity of sarcomere length within the part of the fibre being studied. 2. In most respects the results of Ramsey & Street (1940) were confirmed, but ( a ) the peak of the curve was found to consist of a plateau between sarcomere lengths of 2·05 and 2·2 μ, ( b ) the decline of tension above this plateau is steeper than found by Ramsey & Street, and ( c ) the decline of tension below the plateau becomes suddenly steeper at a sarcomere length of about 1·67 μ. 3. Many features of this length—tension relation are simply explained on the sliding‐filament theory. 4. It is concluded that, in the plateau and at greater lengths, the tension on each thin filament is made up of equal contributions from each bridge which it overlaps on adjacent thick filaments. 5. Internal resistance to shortening is negligible in this range but becomes progressively more important with shortening below the plateau.

Biomechanical analysis of shot putting technique

Article

Feb 1981

Force-velocity-power characteristics and fiber composition in human knee extensor muscles

Article

Feb 1982
Eur J Appl Physiol Occup Physiol

To investigate the influence of skeletal muscle fiber composition on the mechanical characteristics of human skeletal muscle under isometric and dynamic conditions, ten well-trained track athletes with different muscle compositions (m. vastus lateralis) were used. The subjects were instructed to perform maximum isometric and dynamic knee extensions at maximal speed against increasing load. To determine the mechanical properties of the knee extensors a special dynamometer was used. The load was increased by adding weight discs to the electromagnetic part of the dynamometer. The load increased from 0.33-2.33 kg2 moment of inertia in six stages. The data were handled on the basis of Hill's characteristic equation. The subjects were divided into two equal groups, one with more and one with less than 50% of fast twitch fibers. The force-velocity curve was found to be different in the two groups, the subjects with a predominance of fast twitch fibers being able to develop higher power output at a given load. Significant correlations between percentage of fast twitch fiber and power, as well as velocity, were found at the four greater loads only. However, when the percentage of fast twitch fiber and fast twitch fiber cross-sectional areas were combined, significant correlations were also found between this combined parameter and power output at the two lowest loads.

A Kinetic Analysis of the Ground Leg During Sprint Running

Article

Jun 1980

Fifteen highly skilled sprinters were filmed while running at maximum velocity. The results were digitized and computer processed with interest focused on the muscle moments generated about the hip, knee, and ankle of the ground leg. Muscle activity about the hip consisted of extensor (concentric) dominance from foot descent, through foot strike, and into mid-support. Muscle dominance shifted to the hip flexors (eccentric) during mid-support and continued through takeoff. Muscle dominance at the knee demonstrated a pattern of flexor (eccentric, then concentric) dominance from foot descent through foot strike and into mid-support. Knee extensors (eccentric, then concentric) then achieved dominance through takeoff. During the later stages of takeoff, the dominance decreased or reversed briefly to flexor (eccentric) activity prior to a period of minimal activity following the toe-off position. From a period of minimal activity prior and subsequent to ground contact, the plantar flexors (eccentric, then concentric) of the foot were dominant throughout the ground phase. Qualitatively, the unexpected knee flexor dominance during foot strike was generated to limit the braking action created during this portion of ground contact. The unanticipated hip flexor dominance during takeoff served to rotate the upper body forward and into the approaching air phase. In addition, both of these actions allowed efficient use of the two-joint muscles of the leg during the critical phases of ground contact. Finally, the minimizing or reversing of the knee extensor dominance during the later stages of takeoff served to protect the joint from injury. Quantitatively, the magnitude of hip extensor/knee flexor activity during foot strike was significantly related (r = .70, p = .01) to the prior occurrences of related leg injury in the subjects.

Critical characteristics of technique in throwing the discus

Article

May 1995

The purpose of this study was to identify those characteristics of the techniques used by elite discus throwers that are most closely related to the distances they record. The subjects were the competitors in the discus throw events at two major meetings. Two S-VHS video cameras were used to record the performances of the subjects; the direct linear transformation (DLT) procedure was used to obtain three-dimensional data from these records. For the males, the change in speed of the discus during the second double support phase was more influential than the change in speed during any other phase in accounting for differences in the distances of the throws recorded. For the females, the changes in speed during the flight phase and during the second double support phase were about equally influential in accounting for differences in the distance thrown. The findings suggest that emphasis placed on achieving a large change in the speed of the discus during the second double support phase is well founded; that the speed of release is the most influential determinant of the distance of the throw; and that, in most cases, the aerodynamic forces exerted on the discus during the flight increase the distance of the throw.

Optimum phase ratio in the triple jump

Article

Nov 1996
J BIOMECH

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a method to determine the optimum phase ratio that yields the longest actual distance for a given triple jumper. Two hypotheses were tested: (a) for any given triple jumper, the greater the gain in the vertical velocity the greater the loss in the horizontal velocity; and (b) there is no single optimum phase ratio for all triple jumpers. Kinematic data were collected for four elite male triple jumpers. It was found that the loss in the horizontal velocity during a support phase has a significant positive linear correlation with the gain in the vertical velocity during the same support phase. The slope of the regression line was referred to as the horizontal-to-vertical velocity conversion factor. Based on this relationship, an optimization model for the longest actual distance was developed to determine the optimum phase ratio for each of the four subjects. The optimization results showed that there was an optimum phase ratio for the longest actual distance for each triple jumper. The results of a validity test showed that the model predicted the actual distance with a degree of fair accuracy. The results of sensitivity analysis showed that the optimum phase ratio for a given athlete was a function of the horizontal-to-vertical velocity conversion factor and the horizontal velocity at the touchdown of the hop. These results support the two hypotheses of this study.

Dependence of release variables in the shot put

Article

May 2001
J BIOMECH

When the shot is released above a horizontal plane, range from this point depends on release height, speed and angle. Measured distance is the sum of this range and horizontal distance of the release point from the throwing circle edge. Optimal release conditions can be calculated only if the dependence of release velocity on other variables, due to thrower limitations, is known. Experiments on two shot-putters investigated the hypothesis that there are constraint relationships among these four release parameters. A variable scaling scheme, using measurement of impact point and the known magnitude of g, corrected 2D data from one camera for out-of-plane motion and yielded accurate estimates of release parameters. Multivariate regression analyses determined approximate constraint surfaces limiting performance. Achievable release speed decreases with increasing release angle at about 1.7(m/s)/rad and decreases with increasing release height at about 0.8(m/s)/m, with only small differences in sensitivities between the throwers. Horizontal release distance also decreases with increasing release angle at about 1.7m/rad and increases with increasing release height at about 1.3m/m, again with only small differences between the two throwers. Optimal release conditions producing maximum range for a particular athlete can be determined using similar constraints for that athlete.

Optimum release angle in the shot put

Article

Jun 2001

Nicholas P. Linthorne

The aim of the study was to assess the accuracy of a method of calculating the optimum release angle in the shot put. Using the proposed method, the optimum release angle that produces the greatest flight distance is calculated by combining the equation for the range of a projectile in free flight with the relations between release speed, release height and release angle for the athlete. The method was evaluated using measurements of five college shot-putters who performed maximum-effort throws over a wide range of release angles. When the athletes threw with high release angles, the shot was released from a greater height above the ground and with a lower release speed. For all five athletes, the calculated optimum release angle was in good agreement with the athlete's preferred release angle. Each athlete had his own specific optimum release angle because of individual differences in the rate of decrease in release speed with increasing release angle. Simple models of shot-putting were developed to explain the relations between release speed, height and angle in terms of the anthropometric and strength characteristics of the athlete.

Biomechanical aspects of motor technique of elite men and women athletes

Jan 1983
194-207

R Ballreich

Ballreich, R. (1983). Biomechanical aspects of motor technique of elite men and women athletes. In I. D. Programme (ed.), Proceedings from the First IAAF Conference on Women's Athletics (pp. 194-207). Mainz: Deutscher Leichtathletik Verband.

A comparative study between the conventional and rotational techniques of shot put

Jan 1985
7-11

K O Bosen

Bosen, K. O. (1985). A comparative study between the conventional and rotational techniques of shot put. Track and Field Quarterly Review, 85(1), 7-11.

The putting style of Al Fuerbach

Jan 1974
12-14

P Ward

Ward, P. (1974). The putting style of Al Fuerbach. Scholastic Coach, 43, 12-14.

A comparative study of the release and temporal characteristics of shot put

Jan 1995
J Hum Mov Stud
227-242

D K Tsirakos
R M Bartlett
I A Kollias

Tsirakos, D. K., Bartlett, R. M., and Kollias, I. A. (1995). A comparative study of the release and temporal characteristics of shot put. Journal of Human Movement Studies, 28, 227-242.

Speed in track and field events

K Doherty

Doherty, K. (1950). Speed in track and field events. Athletic Journal, 30(6), 12

Technique and performance: identifying the limiting factors

Jan 1981
511-521

J G Hay
C L Vaughan
G G Woodworth

Hay, J. G., Vaughan, C. L., and Woodworth, G. G. (1981). Technique and performance: identifying the limiting factors. In M. Morecki (ed.), Biomechanics VII-B (pp. 511-521). Baltimore: University Park Press.

Sila I predko rozwijane podczas pchniecia kula

Jan 1965
83-95

K Fidelus
W Zienkowicz

Fidelus, K. and Zienkowicz, W. (1965). Sila I predko rozwijane podczas pchniecia kula. Kultura Fizyczna, 18, 83-95. Cited in Zatsiorsky et al. (1981).

Identification of the limiting factors in the performance of a basic movement

Jan 1976
13-19

J G Hay
B D Wilson
J Dapena

Hay, J. G., Wilson, B. D., and Dapena, J. (1976). Identification of the limiting factors in the performance of a basic movement. In P. V. Komi (ed.), Biomechanics V-B (pp. 13-19). Baltimore: University Park Press.

Edward Sarule in the shot put

Jan 1984
15-16

O Grigalka
V Papanov

Grigalka, O., and Papanov, V. (1984). Edward Sarule in the shot put. Legkaya Atletika, 2, 15-16.

The shot put analyzed

Jan 1982
52-55

F Wilt

Wilt, F. (1982). The shot put analyzed. Athletic Journal, 62, 52-55.

Rotational technique: A model for the long-term preparation of young athletes

Jan 1997
35-48

R Oesterreich
K Bartonietz
W Goldmann

Oesterreich, R., Bartonietz, K., and Goldmann, W. (1997). Rotational technique: A model for the long-term preparation of young athletes. New Studies in Athletics, 12, 35-48.

The throwing events at the World Championships in Athletics 1995, Goteborg -Technique of the world's best athletes. Part 1: Shot put and hammer throw

Jan 1995
43-63

K Bartonietz
A Borgstrom

Bartonietz, K., and Borgstrom, A. (1995). The throwing events at the World Championships in Athletics 1995, Goteborg -Technique of the world's best athletes. Part 1: Shot put and hammer throw. New Studies in Athletics, 10(4), 43-63.

Anthropological aspects of women's athletics In

Jan 1983
86-103

G Kentner

Kentner, G. (1983). Anthropological aspects of women's athletics In I. D. Programme (ed.), Proceedings from the First IAAF Conference on Women's Athletics (pp. 86-103). Mainz: Deutscher Leichtathletik Verband.

Biomechanical aspects of the performance structure in throwing events

Jan 1996
7-11

K Bartonietz

Bartonietz, K. (1996). Biomechanical aspects of the performance structure in throwing events. Modern Athlete and Coach, 34(2), 7-11.

Biomechanics and the female athlete

Jan 1988
1-12

A E Atwater

Atwater, A. E. (1988). Biomechanics and the female athlete. In J. L. Puhl, C. H. Brown, and R. O. Voy (eds.), Sport Science Perspective for Women (pp. 1-12). Champaign: Human Kinetics.

The throwing events in track and field The Biomechanics of Sport Boca Raton

Jan 1988
213-238

M Hubbard

Hubbard, M. (1988). The throwing events in track and field. In C. L Vaughan (ed.), The Biomechanics of Sport (pp. 213–238). Boca Raton: CRC Press.

Dyson's Mechanics of Athletics

Jan 1986

G H G Dyson

Dyson, G. H. G. (1986). Dyson's Mechanics of Athletics (8th Edn.). London: Hodder and Stroughton.

Selected kinetic and kinematic factors involved in shot putting

Jan 1978
51-60

J Dessurealt

Dessurealt, J. (1978). Selected kinetic and kinematic factors involved in shot putting. In E. Asmussen and J. Jorgensen (eds.), Biomechanics VI-B (pp. 51-60). Baltimore: University Park Press.

Findings of the IAAF biomechanical research concerning shot put Cologne: Deutsche Sporthochschule

Jan 1990
625-628

S Tepánek

S tepánek, J. (1990). Findings of the IAAF biomechanical research concerning shot put. In Brüggemann, G-P., Ruhl and J. K. (eds.), Techniques in Athletics (pp. 625–628). Cologne: Deutsche Sporthochschule.

Strength training for throwers

Jan 2000
22-26

K Bartonietz

Bartonietz, K. (2000). Strength training for throwers. In J. Jarver (ed.), The Throws (pp. 22-26). Mountain View: TAFNews Press.

Male and female similarities and differences in the motor technique of throwing

Jan 1983
209-216

W Schulter

Schulter, W. (1983). Male and female similarities and differences in the motor technique of throwing. In I. D. Programme (ed.), Proceedings from the First IAAF Conference on Women's Athletics (pp. 209-216). Mainz: Deutscher Leichtathletik Verband.

Biomechanical Analysis of the Men's and Women's Shot Put

Jan 1990

R W Mccoy

McCoy, R. W. (1990). Biomechanical Analysis of the Men's and Women's Shot Put. (Unpublished technical report from the 1989 TAC Championships.) Williamsburg: The College of William and Mary.

Determination of critical parameters among elite female shot putters

Abstract

No full-text available

Recommended publications

Athletics