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Effect of target change during the simple attack in fencing
Marcos Gutiérrez-Dávila1, F Javier Rojas, Matteo Caletti
1University of Granada, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Granada, Spain.
Journal of Sports Sciences
|February 21, 2013
Summary
Changing targets in fencing lunges significantly increases reaction time, movement time, and acceleration phase duration. This leads to decreased speed, reduced distance, and more errors, impacting overall fencing performance.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Fencing Performance Analysis
Background:
- Fencing lunges are complex movements requiring precise timing and execution.
- Understanding how dynamic target changes affect fencer performance is crucial for training and strategy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of target changes during a long lunge attack in fencing.
- To analyze the effects on temporal parameters, execution speed, precision, and movement coordination.
Main Methods:
- Thirty experienced fencers (10+ years) participated.
- Two force platforms recorded reaction forces to determine movement onset.
- A 3D motion capture system tracked marker positions of the fencer and epee.
- A moving projected target simulated dynamic changes.
Main Results:
- Target changes significantly increased reaction time (RT), movement time (MT), and center of mass (CM) acceleration phase duration.
- CM speed (VX(CM)) and horizontal distance (SX(CM)) at acceleration end significantly decreased.
- Movement errors increased, while the overall temporal sequence of the movement pattern remained largely unchanged.
Conclusions:
- Dynamic target changes in fencing lunges negatively affect temporal parameters and execution efficiency.
- Fencers exhibit reduced speed and precision when reacting to unpredictable target shifts.
- Training should incorporate dynamic target scenarios to improve adaptability and performance under changing conditions.
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