Research article summary (published 29 Sep 2002):

Technique analysis in sports: a critical review.

Full Abstract

This paper critically reviews technique analysis as an analytical method used within sports biomechanics as a part of performance analysis. The concept of technique as 'a specific sequence of movements' appears to be well established in the literature, but the concept of technique analysis is less well developed. Although several descriptive and analytical goals for technique analysis can be identified, the main justification given for its use is to aid in the improvement of performance. However, the conceptual framework underpinning this process is poorly developed with a lack of distinction between technique and performance. The methods of technique analysis have been divided into qualitative, quantitative and predictive components. Qualitative technique analysis is characterized by observation and subjective judgement. Several aids to observation are identified, including phase analysis, temporal analysis and critical feature analysis. Although biomechanical principles of movement can be used to form judgements about technique, little agreement exists about the number and categories of these principles. A 'deterministic' model can be used to identify factors that affect performance but, in doing so, technique variables are frequently overlooked. Quantitative technique analysis relies on biomechanical data collection methods. The identification of key technique variables that affect performance is a major issue, but these are poorly distinguished from other variables that affect performance. Quantitative analysis is not suitable for establishing the characteristics of the whole skill, but new methods, such as the use of artificial neural networks, are described that may be able to overcome this limitation. Other methods based on modelling and computer simulation also have potential for focusing on the whole skill. Predictive technique analysis encompasses these developments and offers an attractive interface between the scientist and coach through visual animation methods. I conclude that biomechanists need to clarify the underpinning rationale, framework and scope for the various approaches to technique analysis.

Author information

Author/s: Lees, Adrian (A);

Affiliation: Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK. a.lees(-atsign-)livjm.ac.uk

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Review

Journal: Journal of sports sciences (J Sports Sci), published in England. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2002-Oct; vol 20 (issue 10) : pp 813-28

Dates: Created 2002/10/04; Completed 2003/02/13; Revised 2004/11/17;

PMID: 12363297, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Biomechanics Computer Simulation Humans Motor Skills Movement

Movement Neural Networks (Computer) Psychomotor Performance Sports - physiology Task Performance and Analysis

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