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Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention
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Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 December 2020) | Viewed by 51161

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Enrique Navarro

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Health and Human Performance, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: running; kicking in soccer; hamstring injury; refereeing in soccer; performance analysis in swimming; strength exercises
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Archit Navandar

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
Interests: biomechanics of soccer; badminton biomechanics; injury prevention and rehabilitation post non-contact injuries; swimming biomechanics; performance analysis
Dr. Santiago Veiga

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Sports, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: performance analysis; technical analysis; coordination analysis; skill acquisition; aquatic sports
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Alejandro San Juan Ferrer

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Health and Human Performance, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: sports biomechanics; injury prevention and treatment; fatigue; strength evaluation; biomechanics; physiology and exercise programs in chronic diseases (e.g., cancer); physical activity and ergonomics at work
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

It is our pleasure to present this Special Issue on Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention. There are many motivations that encourage us to launch this proposal, which can be summarized in two topics: the social and economic impact of sport, and the role of biomechanics in sport training.

The economic impact of professional sport is obvious, but we must also consider the importance of recreational sport. The number of recreational sports events grows day by day; at present, nonprofessional athletes train regularly, use high-cost equipment, and control their performance using portable sensors. However, while the beneficial effects of sport on health has been widely reported, it is known that the incidence of sport injuries in both professional and amateur athletes is now increasing, producing a concominant increase of health care costs due mainly to injury rehabilitation treatments.

On the other hand, sports performance should be understood as the search for the best results and the reduction of injury risk. The paradigm of improving performance and preventing injury is currently a fundamental topic in sport sciences. There are many factors that determine human performance, but possibly one of the most important is the mechanical efficacy of movements (i.e., sport technique). In this sense, sports biomechanics as a science that seeks to optimize the human movements plays an important role in sports training and injury prevention.

We know that the number of scientific publications on sports sciences is currently very large, and fortunately it grows day by day. However, we hope that this Special Issue on sports biomechanics and injury prevention will be received by sport researchers as a good chance for publishing their results. We encourage you to send works focused on the biomechanical analysis of motor skills of sports (individual and collective) and its relationships with injuries in both men and women professional/recreational athletes.

Prof. Enrique Navarro
Dr. Archit Navandar
Prof. Santiago Veiga
Prof. Alejandro San Juan Ferrer
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • biomechanical analysis
  • injury biomechanics
  • joint biomechanics
  • sport injury
  • injury prevention
  • rehabilitation
  • reconditioning
  • hamstring strain
  • motor skills
  • mechanical efficacy
  • sports technique
  • individual sports
  • collective sports
  • performance analysis
  • hard walk
  • football
  • soccer
  • soccer refereeing
  • swimming
  • running
  • sprinting
  • kicking
  • throwing
  • golf
  • jumping
  • skiing
  • fencing
  • balance skills
  • strength training
  • electromyography
  • motion capture system
  • 2D analysis
  • inverse dynamics
  • movement energy
  • accelerometry
  • inertial sensors

Published Papers (15 papers)

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Editorial

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2 pages, 172 KiB  
Editorial
Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention
by Enrique Navarro, Archit Navandar, Santiago Veiga and Alejandro F. San Juan
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(9), 4230; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11094230 - 7 May 2021
Viewed by 2063
Abstract
This Special Issue had, as its main objective, the compilation of studies on sports performance and its relationship with musculoskeletal injuries [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)

Research

Jump to: Editorial

13 pages, 1310 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Hamstrings and Quadriceps Muscle Activation in Male and Female Professional Soccer Players
by Gonzalo Torres, Estrella Armada-Cortés, Javier Rueda, Alejandro F. San Juan and Enrique Navarro
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(2), 738; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11020738 - 14 Jan 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4479
Abstract
(1) Background: this study aimed to determine if there are differences in quadriceps and hamstring muscle activation in professional male and female soccer players. (2) Methods: muscle activation was recorded by surface electromyography in 27 professional soccer players (19 male and 8 female). [...] Read more.
(1) Background: this study aimed to determine if there are differences in quadriceps and hamstring muscle activation in professional male and female soccer players. (2) Methods: muscle activation was recorded by surface electromyography in 27 professional soccer players (19 male and 8 female). The players performed the Bulgarian squat and lunge exercises. Vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, semitendinosus, and biceps femoris were the muscles analyzed. (3) Results: The statistical analysis of the hamstring:quadriceps ratio showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). Significant differences were found in the vastus medialis:vastus lateralis ratio for both the lunge exercise (t20 = 3.35; p = 0.001; d = 1.42) and the Bulgarian squat (t23 = 4.15; p < 0.001; d = 1.76). For the intragroup muscular pattern in the lunge and Bulgarian squat exercises, the female players showed higher activation for the vastus lateralis muscle (p < 0.001) than the male players and lower muscle activation in the vastus medialis. No significant differences were found in the rectus femoris, biceps remoris, and semitendinosus muscles (p > 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Differences were found in the medial ratio (vastus medialis: vastus lateralis). Moreover, regarding the intramuscular pattern, very consistent patterns have been found. In the quadriceps muscle: VM>VL>RF; in the hamstring muscle: ST>BF. These patterns could be very useful in the recovery process from an injury to return players to their highest performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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14 pages, 2107 KiB  
Article
Single-Leg Landings Following a Volleyball Spike May Increase the Risk of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury More Than Landing on Both-Legs
by Datao Xu, Xinyan Jiang, Xuanzhen Cen, Julien S. Baker and Yaodong Gu
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(1), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11010130 - 25 Dec 2020
Cited by 50 | Viewed by 7061
Abstract
Volleyball players often land on a single leg following a spike shot due to a shift in the center of gravity and loss of balance. Landing on a single leg following a spike may increase the probability of non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) [...] Read more.
Volleyball players often land on a single leg following a spike shot due to a shift in the center of gravity and loss of balance. Landing on a single leg following a spike may increase the probability of non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. The purpose of this study was to compare and analyze the kinematics and kinetics differences during the landing phase of volleyball players using a single leg (SL) and double-leg landing (DL) following a spike shot. The data for vertical ground reaction forces (VGRF) and sagittal plane were collected. SPM analysis revealed that SL depicted a smaller knee flexion angle (about 13.8°) and hip flexion angle (about 10.8°) during the whole landing phase, a greater knee and hip power during the 16.83–20.45% (p = 0.006) and 13.01–16.26% (p = 0.008) landing phase, a greater ankle plantarflexion angle and moment during the 0–41.07% (p < 0.001) and 2.76–79.45% (p < 0.001) landing phase, a greater VGRF during the 5.87–8.25% (p = 0.029), 19.75–24.14% (p = 0.003) landing phase when compared to DL. Most of these differences fall within the time range of ACL injury (30–50 milliseconds after landing). To reduce non-contact ACL injuries, a landing strategy of consciously increasing the hip and knee flexion, and plantarflexion of the ankle should be considered by volleyball players. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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11 pages, 1076 KiB  
Article
How Should the Transition from Underwater to Surface Swimming Be Performed by Competitive Swimmers?
by Jelena Stosic, Santiago Veiga, Alfonso Trinidad and Enrique Navarro
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(1), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11010122 - 24 Dec 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2580
Abstract
Despite the increasing importance of the underwater segment of start and turns in competition and its positive influence on the subsequent surface swimming, there is no evidence on how the transition from underwater to surface swimming should be performed. Therefore, the aim of [...] Read more.
Despite the increasing importance of the underwater segment of start and turns in competition and its positive influence on the subsequent surface swimming, there is no evidence on how the transition from underwater to surface swimming should be performed. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the role of segmental, kinematic and coordinative parameters on the swimming velocity during the pre-transition and transition phases. A total of 30 national male swimmers performed 4 × 25 m (one each stroke) from a push start at maximum velocity while recorded from a lateral view by two sequential cameras (50 Hz), and their kinematic and coordinative swimming parameters were calculated by means of two-dimensional direct linear transformation (DLT) algorithms. Unlike pre-transition, backward regression analysis of transition significantly predicted swimming velocity in all strokes except breaststroke (R2 ranging from 0.263 in front crawl to 0.364 in butterfly). The inter-limb coordination was a predictor in butterfly stroke (p = 0.006), whereas the body depth and inclination were predictors in the alternate strokes (front crawl (p = 0.05) and backstroke (p = 0.04)). These results suggest that the body position and coordinative swimming parameters (apart from kicking or stroking rate and length) have an important influence on the transition performance, which depends on the swimming strokes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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16 pages, 3152 KiB  
Article
Estimating Cycling Aerodynamic Performance Using Anthropometric Measures
by Raman Garimella, Thomas Peeters, Eduardo Parrilla, Jordi Uriel, Seppe Sels, Toon Huysmans and Stijn Verwulgen
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(23), 8635; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10238635 - 2 Dec 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3283
Abstract
Aerodynamic drag force and projected frontal area (A) are commonly used indicators of aerodynamic cycling efficiency. This study investigated the accuracy of estimating these quantities using easy-to-acquire anthropometric and pose measures. In the first part, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) drag force [...] Read more.
Aerodynamic drag force and projected frontal area (A) are commonly used indicators of aerodynamic cycling efficiency. This study investigated the accuracy of estimating these quantities using easy-to-acquire anthropometric and pose measures. In the first part, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) drag force calculations and A (m2) values from photogrammetry methods were compared using predicted 3D cycling models for 10 male amateur cyclists. The shape of the 3D models was predicted using anthropometric measures. Subsequently, the models were reposed from a standing to a cycling pose using joint angle data from an optical motion capture (mocap) system. In the second part, a linear regression analysis was performed to predict A using 26 anthropometric measures combined with joint angle data from two sources (optical and inertial mocap, separately). Drag calculations were strongly correlated with benchmark projected frontal area (coefficient of determination R2 = 0.72). A can accurately be predicted using anthropometric data and joint angles from optical mocap (root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.037 m2) or inertial mocap (RMSE = 0.032 m2). This study showed that aerodynamic efficiency can be predicted using anthropometric and joint angle data from commercially available, inexpensive posture tracking methods. The practical relevance for cyclists is to quantify and train posture during cycling for improving aerodynamic efficiency and hence performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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12 pages, 2694 KiB  
Article
Evolution of the Hurdle-Unit Kinematic Parameters in the 60 m Indoor Hurdle Race
by Pablo González-Frutos, Santiago Veiga, Javier Mallo and Enrique Navarro
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(21), 7807; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10217807 - 4 Nov 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2275
Abstract
The aims of this study were to compare the five hurdle-unit split times from the deterministic model with the hurdle-to-hurdle model and with the official time, to compare the step kinematics of each hurdle-unit intervals, and to relate these variables to their respective [...] Read more.
The aims of this study were to compare the five hurdle-unit split times from the deterministic model with the hurdle-to-hurdle model and with the official time, to compare the step kinematics of each hurdle-unit intervals, and to relate these variables to their respective hurdle-unit split times. The temporal and spatial parameters of the 60 m hurdles race were calculated during the 44th Spanish and 12th IAAF World Indoor Championships (men: n = 59; women: n = 51). The hurdle-unit split times from the deterministic model showed a high correlation (r = 0.99; p < 0.001) with the split times of the hurdle-to-hurdle model and faster split times were related to shorter step and flight times in hurdle steps for both genders. At the first hurdle, male athletes tended to increase their flight and contact times while the tendency of female athletes was to decrease their contact and flight times. In addition, at the first hurdle, both genders presented shorter take-off distance, shorter landing distance, and greater step width than in the remaining hurdles of the race. Therefore, coaches should implement training programs that have an impact on these key variables according to the specific demands of each hurdle-unit phase and gender. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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14 pages, 441 KiB  
Article
Biological Maturity Status, Anthropometric Percentiles, and Core Flexion to Extension Strength Ratio as Possible Traumatic and Overuse Injury Risk Factors in Youth Alpine Ski Racers: A Four-Year Prospective Study
by Lisa Steidl-Müller, Carolin Hildebrandt, Martin Niedermeier, Erich Müller, Michael Romann, Marie Javet, Björn Bruhin and Christian Raschner
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(21), 7623; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10217623 - 29 Oct 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2073
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate prospectively the role of biological maturity status, anthropometric percentiles, and core flexion to extension strength ratios in the context of traumatic and overuse injury risk identification in youth ski racing. In this study, 72 [...] Read more.
The aim of the present study was to investigate prospectively the role of biological maturity status, anthropometric percentiles, and core flexion to extension strength ratios in the context of traumatic and overuse injury risk identification in youth ski racing. In this study, 72 elite youth ski racers (45 males, 27 females) were prospectively observed from the age of 10 to 14 years. Anthropometric parameters, biological maturity status, and core flexion to extension strength ratios were assessed twice per year. Type and severity of traumatic and overuse injuries were prospectively recorded during the 4 years. Generalized estimating equations were used to model the binary outcome (0: no injury; 1: ≥1 injury). Factors tested on association with injury risk were sex, relative age quarter, age, maturity group, puberty status, core flexion to extension strength ratio, height percentile group, and weight percentile group. In total, 104 traumatic injuries and 39 overuse injuries were recorded. Age (odds ratio (OR) = 3.36) and weight percentile group (OR = 0.38) were significant risk factors for traumatic injuries (tendency: pubertal status). No significant risk factor for overuse injuries was identified (tendency: maturity group, puberty status, height percentile group). Future studies should focus on identifying risk factors for overuse injuries; growth rates might be of importance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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11 pages, 971 KiB  
Article
Effects of Differential Jump Training on Balance Performance in Female Volleyball Players
by Philip X. Fuchs, Andrea Fusco, Cristina Cortis and Herbert Wagner
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(17), 5921; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10175921 - 26 Aug 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3446
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether coordinative jump training that induces neuromuscular stimuli can affect balance performance, associated with injury risk, in elite-level female volleyball players. During the competitive season, the balance performance of 12 elite female players (highest Austrian [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to determine whether coordinative jump training that induces neuromuscular stimuli can affect balance performance, associated with injury risk, in elite-level female volleyball players. During the competitive season, the balance performance of 12 elite female players (highest Austrian division) was obtained via a wobble board (WB; 200 Hz) placed on an AMTI force plate (1000 Hz). Three identically repeated measurements defined two intervals (control and intervention phases), both comparable in duration and regular training. The intervention included 6 weeks of differential training (8 sessions of 15–20 min) that delivered variations in dynamics around the ankle joints. Multilevel mixed models were used to assess the effect on postural control. WB performance decreased from 27.0 ± 13.2% to 19.6 ± 11.3% during the control phase and increased to 54.5 ± 16.2% during the intervention (β = 49.1 ± 3.5; p < 0.001). Decreased sway area [cm²] (β = −7.5 ± 1.6; p < 0.001), anterior–posterior (β = −4.1 ± 0.4; p < 0.001) and mediolateral sway [mm] (β = −2.7 ± 0.6; p = 0.12), and mean velocity [mm∙s−1] (β = −9.0 ± 3.6; p < 0.05) were observed during the intervention compared with the control phase. Inter-limb asymmetry was reduced (β = −41.8 ± 14.4; p < 0.05). The applied training concept enhanced balance performance and postural control in elite female volleyball players. Due to the low additional physiological loads of the program and increased injury risk during the competitive season, we recommend this intervention for supporting injury prevention during this period. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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16 pages, 1291 KiB  
Article
Association between the On-Plane Angular Motions of the Axle-Chain System and Clubhead Speed in Skilled Male Golfers
by Morgan V. Madrid, Marco A. Avalos, Nicholas A. Levine, Noelle J. Tuttle, Kevin A. Becker and Young-Hoo Kwon
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(17), 5728; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10175728 - 19 Aug 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2639
Abstract
The on-plane rotations of the inclined axle-chain system on the functional swing plane (FSP) can represent the angular motions of the golfer–club system closely. The purpose of this study was to identify key performance factors in golf through a comprehensive investigation of the [...] Read more.
The on-plane rotations of the inclined axle-chain system on the functional swing plane (FSP) can represent the angular motions of the golfer–club system closely. The purpose of this study was to identify key performance factors in golf through a comprehensive investigation of the association between the angular motion characteristics of the axle-chain system and clubhead speed in skilled golfers. Sixty-six male golfers (handicap ≤ 3) performed full-effort shots in three club conditions: driver, 5-iron, and pitching wedge. Swing trials were captured with an optical motion capture system, and the hip/shoulder lines, upper lever, club, and wrist angular positions/velocities were calculated. Time, angular position, range of rotation, and peak angular velocity parameters were extracted and their correlation coefficients (Pearson and Spearman) to actual and normalized clubhead speeds were computed (p < 0.05). Higher clubhead speed was associated with shorter downswing phases, larger rotation ranges (hip/shoulder lines, and upper lever), larger hip–shoulder separation at impact, delayed transitions (hip line and upper lever), faster rotations (backswing, downswing, and impact), and larger angular velocity losses (hip line and upper lever) with additional club- and body-specific correlations. Clubhead speed was not well associated with wrist cock angles/ranges, X-factors/stretches, and timings of the downswing peak. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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14 pages, 1325 KiB  
Article
Validation and Application of Two New Core Stability Tests in Professional Football
by Saioa Etxaleku, Mikel Izquierdo, Eder Bikandi, Jaime García Arroyo, Iñigo Sarriegi, Iosu Sesma and Igor Setuain
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(16), 5495; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10165495 - 8 Aug 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3662
Abstract
The purpose of the first study was to validate two newly proposed core stability tests; Prone Plank test (PPT) and Closed Kinetic Chain test (CCT), for evaluating the strength of the body core. Subsequently, these tests were employed in a longitudinal prospective study [...] Read more.
The purpose of the first study was to validate two newly proposed core stability tests; Prone Plank test (PPT) and Closed Kinetic Chain test (CCT), for evaluating the strength of the body core. Subsequently, these tests were employed in a longitudinal prospective study implementing a core stability training program with a professional Spanish football team. For the validation study, 22 physically active men (Tegner Scale 6–7) performed three trials of the PPT and CCT tests in two different testing sessions separated by one week. In the longitudinal study, 13 male professional football players were equally evaluated (PPT and CCT) before and after the competitive session in which they completed a core training program. Intra-/intersession, and intertester, reliability was analyzed. PPT and CCT demonstrated excellent to good test–retest reliability and acceptable error measurement (ICCs for intratester and intrasession reliability ranged from 0.77 to 0.94 for the PPT, and 0.8–0.9 for the CCT) in all but one of the testing conditions (female tester for CCT test; ICC = 0.38). Significant improvements on core strength were found from pre to post evaluation in both the PPT (p < 0.01) and CCT (p < 0.01) after the implementation of a core training program in professional football players. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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11 pages, 1762 KiB  
Article
Impact of Quadriceps/Hamstrings Torque Ratio on Three-Dimensional Pelvic Posture and Clinical Pubic Symphysis Pain-Preliminary Results in Healthy Young Male Athletes
by Oliver Ludwig, Jens Kelm and Sascha Hopp
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(15), 5215; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10155215 - 29 Jul 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3527
Abstract
Pain in the pubic symphysis is of significance, especially in high-performance sports. Pelvic torsion, possibly caused by muscular imbalances, is discussed as a pathogenic mechanism. This study examined a possible interrelationship between the maximum torques of quadriceps femoris and hamstrings and the spatial [...] Read more.
Pain in the pubic symphysis is of significance, especially in high-performance sports. Pelvic torsion, possibly caused by muscular imbalances, is discussed as a pathogenic mechanism. This study examined a possible interrelationship between the maximum torques of quadriceps femoris and hamstrings and the spatial positioning of the hemi-pelvises, as well as the tenderness to palpation of the pubic symphysis. The three-dimensional pelvic contour of 26 pain free adolescents (age 16.0 ± 0.8 years, weight 66.3 ± 9.9 kg, height 176.2 ± 6.0 cm) was registered by means of an 3D optical system and the torsion of both hemi-pelvises against each other was calculated based on a simplified geometrical model. Tenderness on palpation of the pubic symphysis was assessed by means of a visual analogue scale, and isometric torques of knee extensors and flexors were measured for both legs. The torque ratio between knee extensors and flexors was calculated for both sides, as was the crossed torque ratio between the two legs. On the basis of a MANOVA, possible significant differences in torques and torque ratios between subgroups with lower and higher pelvic torsion were analyzed. The crossed torque ratio (F = 19.55, p < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.453) and the tenderness to palpation of the pubic symphysis (F = 10.72, p = 0.003, partial η2 = 0.309) were significantly higher in the subgroup with higher pelvic torsion. The results indicate the crossed torque ratio of knee flexors and extensors as a potential biomechanical-pathogenic mechanism to be considered in the primary prevention and diagnosis of symphyseal pain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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10 pages, 712 KiB  
Article
The Acute Effect of Match-Play on Hip Isometric Strength and Flexibility in Female Field Hockey Players
by Violeta Sánchez-Migallón, Alvaro López-Samanes, Pablo Terrón-Manrique, Esther Morencos, Vicente Fernández-Ruiz, Archit Navandar and Victor Moreno-Pérez
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(14), 4900; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10144900 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2879
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the acute effect of simulated field hockey match-play on isometric knee flexion, adductor (ADD) and abductor (ABD) strength, adductor/abductor (ADD/ABD) strength ratio, countermovement jump height (CMJ), hip flexion and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM). [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to determine the acute effect of simulated field hockey match-play on isometric knee flexion, adductor (ADD) and abductor (ABD) strength, adductor/abductor (ADD/ABD) strength ratio, countermovement jump height (CMJ), hip flexion and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM). Thirty competitive female field hockey players (23.0 ± 3.9 years old) participated in the study. Apart from the afore-mentioned variables, external (through GPS) and internal load (through RPE) were measured before (pre-match) and immediately after simulated hockey match-play (post-match) in both limbs. Isometric knee flexion strength (+7.0%, p = 0.047) and hip flexion ROM (+4.4%, p = 0.022) were higher post-match in the non-dominant limb, while CMJ values reduced (−11.33%, p = 0.008) when comparing from pre-match data. In addition, no differences were observed for isometric hip ADD, ABD, ADD/ABD strength ratio, passive hip flexion ROM and ankle dorsiflexion ROM test. A simulated field-hockey match produces an increment in hip isometric strength and hip flexion ROM values in the non-dominant limb and a decrease in jump height capacity. As a result, CMJ assessment should be considered post-match in order to identify players who would require further rest before returning to training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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10 pages, 2018 KiB  
Article
Jumping Side Volley in Soccer—A Biomechanical Preliminary Study on the Flying Kick and Its Coaching Know-How for Practitioners
by Xiang Zhang, Gongbing Shan, Feng Liu and Yaguang Yu
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(14), 4785; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10144785 - 12 Jul 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3336
Abstract
The jumping side volley has created breathtaking moments and cherished memories for soccer fans. Regrettably, scientific studies on the skill cannot be found in the literature. Relying on the talent of athletes to improvise on the fly can hardly be considered a viable [...] Read more.
The jumping side volley has created breathtaking moments and cherished memories for soccer fans. Regrettably, scientific studies on the skill cannot be found in the literature. Relying on the talent of athletes to improvise on the fly can hardly be considered a viable learning method. This study targeted to fill this gap by quantifying the factors of the jumping side volley and to contribute to the development of a coaching method for it. Using 3D motion capture (12 cameras, 200 Hz) and full-body biomechanical modeling, our study aimed to identify elements that govern the entrainment of skill execution. Given the rarity of players who have acquired this skill and the low success rate of the kick (even in professional games), we were able to achieve and review 23 successful trials from five college-level subjects and quantify them for the study. The results unveiled the following key elements: (1) the control of trunk rotation during jumping, (2) the angle between thighs upon take-off, (3) the whip-like control of the kicking leg while airborne, (4) timing between ball motion and limb coordination, and (5) damping mechanism during falling. An accurate kick can normally be achieved through repetitive training. This underlines the need for athletes to master a safe landing technique that minimizes risk of injury during practice. Therefore, training should begin with learning a safe falling technique. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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12 pages, 1117 KiB  
Article
Effects of Plyometric Training on Surface Electromyographic Activity and Performance during Blocking Jumps in College Division I Men’s Volleyball Athletes
by Min-Hsien Wang, Ke-Chou Chen, Min-Hao Hung, Chi-Yao Chang, Chin-Shan Ho, Chun-Hao Chang and Kuo-Chuan Lin
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(13), 4535; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10134535 - 30 Jun 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2737
Abstract
In volleyball matches, there are three minute intervals between sets. Therefore, the improvement of the muscle output ratio is one of the most import foundational physical elements for the players. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of plyometric training [...] Read more.
In volleyball matches, there are three minute intervals between sets. Therefore, the improvement of the muscle output ratio is one of the most import foundational physical elements for the players. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of plyometric training on the changes in electrical signals in the lower limb muscles of male college volleyball players during continuous blocking and to examine the benefits of plyometric training on blocking agility and maximum vertical jump height. In this study, twenty elite male college volleyball players were recruited and divided into a plyometric training group (PTG) and a control group (CG). The wireless electromyography was used for data acquisition, and the electrodes were applied to the left and right rectus femoris, biceps femoris, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius. The median frequency was used as the measurement of the electromyographic signals during the jumping blocks. This study used covariate analysis methods, with previously measured results used as covariates to perform a two-way analysis of covariance for the independent samples. Based on the results of this study, after 6 weeks of training, the median frequency of the rectus femoris (2.13% to 4.75% improved) and that of the tibialis anterior muscles (4.14% to 7.71% improved) were significantly lower in the PTG than in the CG. Additionally, the blocking agility increased by 6.26% and the maximum vertical jump height increased by 3.33% in the PTG compared to the CG. The findings provide important insights on the neuromuscular status for volleyball players during continuous blocking jumps. Six weeks of appropriate plyometric training can facilitate the performance of volleyball players. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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12 pages, 1282 KiB  
Article
Can We Rely on Flight Time to Measure Jumping Performance or Neuromuscular Fatigue-Overload in Professional Female Soccer Players?
by Estrella Armada-Cortés, Javier Peláez Barrajón, José Antonio Benítez-Muñoz, Enrique Navarro and Alejandro F. San Juan
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(13), 4424; https://doi.org/10.3390/app10134424 - 27 Jun 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2658
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to compare the validity of the take-off velocity method (TOV) measured with a force platform (FP) (gold standard) versus the flight time method (FT) in a vertical jump to measure jumping performance or neuromuscular fatigue-overload in [...] Read more.
The main purpose of this study was to compare the validity of the take-off velocity method (TOV) measured with a force platform (FP) (gold standard) versus the flight time method (FT) in a vertical jump to measure jumping performance or neuromuscular fatigue-overload in professional female football players. For this purpose, we used a FP and a validated smartphone application (APP). A total of eight healthy professional female football players (aged 27.25 ± 6.48 years) participated in this study. All performed three valid trials of a countermovement jump and squat jump and were measured at the same time with the APP and the FP. The results show that there is a lack of validity and reliability between jump height (JH) calculated through the TOV method with the FP and the FT method with the FP (r = 0.028, p > 0.84, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = −0.026) and between the JH measured with the FP through the TOV method and the APP with the FT method (r = 0.116, p > 0.43, ICC = −0.094 (−0.314–0.157)). A significant difference between the JH measured through the TOV with the FP versus the APP (p < 0.05), and a trend between the JH obtained with the FP through the TOV and the FT (p = 0.052) is also shown. Finally, the JH with the FP through the FT and the APP did not differ (p > 0.05). The eta-squared of the one-way ANOVA was η2 = 0.085. It seems that only the TOV measured with a FP could guarantee the accuracy of the jump test in SJ+CMJ and SJ, so it is recommended that high-level sportswomen and men should be assessed with the FP through TOV as gold standard technology to ensure correct performance and/or fatigue-overload control during the sport season. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics: Sport Performance and Injury Prevention)
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