Athlete and coach perceptions of technology needs for evaluating running performance |
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| Authors: | Paul Fleming Colin Young Sharon Dixon Matt Carré |
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| Institution: | (1) Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK;(2) Sports and Play Construction Association (SAPCA), Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, CV8 2RF, UK;(3) School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK;(4) Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield, S1 3JD, UK |
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| Abstract: | Athletes and their support team utilise technology to measure and evaluate technique and athletic performance. Existing techniques
for motion and propulsion measurement and analysis include a combination of indirect methods (high-speed video) and direct
methods (force plates and pressure systems). These methods are predominantly limited to controlled laboratory environments
(in a small area relative to the competition environment), require expert advice and support, and can take significant time
to evaluate the data. Consequently, the more advanced measurement techniques are considered to be restricted to specific coaching
sessions, or periods in the year leading up to competition, when the time and expertise of further support staff are available.
The more widely used, and simple, devices for monitoring ‘performance’ during running include stopwatches, GPS tracking and
accelerometer-based systems to count strides. These provide useful information on running duration, distance and velocity
but lack detailed information on many key aspects of running technique. In order to begin the process of development of more
innovative technologies for routine use by athletes and coaches, a study was required to improve the understanding of athletes’
and coaches’ perception of their requirements from measurement technology. This study outlines a systematic approach to elicit
and evaluate their perceptions, and presents the findings from interviews and a questionnaire. The qualitative data are presented
as a hierarchical graphical plot (structured relationship model) showing six general dimensions (technique, footwear and surface,
environment, performance, injury and cardiovascular) and shows the development of these general dimensions from the interviewee
quotations. The questionnaire quantitative data enhances the study by further ranking characteristics that arise from the
interviews. A contrast is shown between short and longer distance runner groups, as might be expected. The current technology
available to elite runners is briefly reviewed in relation to the 22 characteristics identified as important to measure. The
conclusions highlight the need for newer technologies to measure aspects of running style and performance in a portable and
integrated manner, with suggestions as to size and weight likely to be acceptable to users for emerging devices. |
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