A recent review article published in the journal Sensors explores the impact of wearable and portable devices on sports biomechanics and training science. The authors examine how advancements in wearable technology are transforming performance analysis and training methodologies in sports, offering new insights into athlete monitoring and improvement strategies.
Study: Wearable and Portable Devices in Sport Biomechanics and Training Science. Image Credit: metamorworks/Shutterstock.com
Background
The field of sports biomechanics has traditionally relied on controlled environments to evaluate athletic performance. While these methods provide precise measurements, they do not always reflect the dynamic conditions athletes face during actual competition. The emergence of wearable devices has allowed for the collection of real-time data in natural settings. These devices can measure various biomechanical and physiological parameters, making them valuable tools for athletes and coaches.
Studies Highlighted in This Review
The review article provides a thorough examination of various studies utilizing wearable and portable devices in sports biomechanics and training science, highlighting their effectiveness and applications across different sports and training scenarios.
One study investigated the reliability of the Xsens motion capture system for assessing lower limb joint angles during running on both stable and unstable terrains. While the system accurately detected kinematic changes within a single day, it exhibited decreased consistency in measurements taken on different days, particularly for lower leg and pelvis joints in the frontal plane.
Another study compared the performance of a markerless motion capture system, MotionMetrix, with that of an optoelectronic system, Qualisys, during walking and running. The results revealed variability in agreement between the two systems, with some kinematic variables showing high correlation and others demonstrating poor agreement, especially at varying speeds.
The accuracy of the RunScribe Sacral Gait Lab™ IMU in measuring pelvic kinematics was assessed by comparing it to the Qualisys system. The IMU did not meet validity criteria for all tested variables and velocities, highlighting its limitations for accurate kinematic analysis.
A study on the Vmaxpro IMU's consistency and reliability in estimating vertical jump performance across multiple tests and devices concluded that the device was unreliable for this purpose. This suggests that further refinement of the device or methodology may be needed to improve accuracy.
Real-time monitoring in fencing was explored through a novel system designed to track fencers' balance and movement control. This system integrated visual and haptic feedback modules to provide immediate performance insights. Other studies investigated the impact of different pressurization techniques during high-load bench press exercises on muscle activation and perceived fatigue levels in bodybuilders, as well as changes in skin temperature on the front of both thighs and the patellar tendon following a unilateral isokinetic fatigue test. Additionally, systematic reviews were conducted to characterize internal and external loads during beach invasion sports.
Discussion
Real-time monitoring in fencing has shown that integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technology with real-time sensory feedback significantly enhances performance. This technology allows for immediate adjustments during training, which can lead to improved competitive outcomes.
A study on muscle activation and fatigue revealed that both continuous and intermittent pressurization modes increase muscle activation. However, continuous pressurization was linked to higher perceived fatigue. This indicates that optimizing training protocols should balance muscle activation with fatigue management.
In research on thermoregulation, it was found that while thermal challenges uniformly affected the quadriceps, the patellar tendon exhibited varied responses. This variability suggests that metabolic and blood flow changes are influenced by the distinct physical and mechanical properties of different tissues, offering insights for more effective recovery strategies.
The study on beach invasion sports assessed key monitoring technologies and metrics, comparing the demands of beach sports with those of indoor sports while considering factors like competition level, age, sex, and sport type. The research revealed that beach sports involve moderate-to-high-intensity efforts with periods of lower-intensity recovery. Despite lower external load volumes compared to indoor sports, the shifting sand surface and fluctuating outdoor conditions increased the perceived effort. This highlights the unique challenges of beach sports and underscores the need for tailored training approaches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the studies highlighted in this review showcase the wide-ranging applications of wearable and portable devices, from improving the reliability of kinematic measurements to offering real-time feedback for athletes. As technology advances, it has the potential to revolutionize training methodologies, aid in injury prevention, and boost overall athletic performance. Future research should aim to refine these technologies and investigate their long-term effects across different sports disciplines, ensuring athletes can fully leverage these tools for optimal benefit.
Journal Reference
Jaén-Carrillo D., Pérez-Castilla A., et al. (2024). Wearable and Portable Devices in Sport Biomechanics and Training Science. Sensors 24(14):4616. DOI: 10.3390/s24144616, https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/24/14/4616