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Keeping your eyes continuously on the ball while running for catchable and uncatchable fly balls
Dees B W Postma1, A Rob den Otter1, Frank T J M Zaal1
1Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, Sector F, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
Plos One
|March 28, 2014
Summary
Fielders continuously track fly balls visually throughout their flight, indicating continuous visual guidance is used for running to the interception point. This challenges the idea that catchers predict locations from early ball trajectory information.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human motor control
- Visual perception
Background:
- Fielders need to intercept fly balls, requiring precise running control.
- Two theories exist: prediction from early trajectory or continuous visual guidance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether fielders predict fly ball interception points or use continuous visual guidance.
- To analyze gaze behavior during fly ball tracking.
Main Methods:
- Participants tracked approaching tennis balls (20m) using mobile eye trackers.
- Balls were projected as catchable or uncatchable scenarios.
Main Results:
- Participants continuously tracked the ball's gaze until the catch or declared uncatchable.
- Continuous tracking occurred even at maximum running speeds.
Conclusions:
- Fielders rely on continuous visual control for fly ball interception.
- This suggests prediction from early trajectory is not the primary strategy.
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