Change in throwing pattern: critical values for control parameter of velocity

The purpose of this study was to determine the critical values at which throwing patterns change when scaling up on the control parameter of velocity. Thirty-six participants (ages: 6-12 years) were categorized into four throwing levels according to patterns represented by temporal joint lag. Each participant was required to complete 5 overhand throws at each of 10 relative velocities for a total of 50 trials per participant. The lowest velocity was 10% of maximum, with increases in increments of 10% up to a maximum effort. Quantitative and qualitative analyses indicated that critical values varied according to throwing category and joint. Generally, lower skilled throwers (Levels 1 and 2) had less stable joint lag and changed patterns at lower velocities than higher skilled (Levels 3 and 4) throwers.