SPATIAL KINEMATIC MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES APPLIED TO THE ANALYSIS OF THE START IN COMPETITIVE SPEED SKATING.

The application of cinematography to the measurement of various kinematic parameters in competitive speed skating is used to assess velocities, forces, power, knee and hip joint angles, and other mechanical and technical aspects of the sport. Spatial, or three dimensional cinematography requiring two cine-cameras filming synchronistically and positioned, ideally, 90 degrees to each other is used. In speed skating, 'the start' is ideal to measure because it occurs within a limited distance, it is a non-planar event, and it has not been studied in the past. Data collection is accomplished via filming and digitization. If greater velocity can be traced back to definable components of starting technique, that is, push-off mechanics, then an accurate quantitative analysis of technique should provide information that coaches of emerging, elite class speed skaters can use to improve performances.