Measurement of bend sprinting kinematics with three-dimensional motion capture : a test-retest reliability study

Sprint velocity decreases on the bend when compared with the straight, therefore understanding technique during bend sprinting could have important implications for aiding race performance. Few bend sprinting studies have used optoelectronic cameras to investigate kinematic variables. Limited published evidence regarding the reliability of marker sets in conditions representative of elite bend sprinting makes model selection difficult. Therefore, a test-retest protocol was conducted to establish the reliability and minimum detectable difference of a lower limb and trunk marker set during bend sprinting (radius: 36.5 m). Six participants completed five, 60 m trials at maximum effort, with data collected at 38 - 45 m. This was repeated 2 - 7 days later. Spatio-temporal (e.g. contact time) and kinematic variables (e.g. peak joint angles) were evaluated. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were used to determine the between- and within-day reliability. Between-day reliability (ICC 3, k) was fair to excellent for all variables. Compared to between-day, within-day reliability demonstrated stronger agreement for the majority of variables. Thus, same-day data collection is preferable. It has been established that the marker set is reliable for future use. In addition, the minimal detectable difference was calculated which serves as useful reference for future research in bend sprinting.