Sprint mechanics evaluation using inertial sensor-based technology: A laboratory validation study

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Wearable Technology

Background:

• Micro-electromechanical systems have advanced magnetic inertial measurement units (MIMUs) for biomechanical analysis.
• MIMUs have shown suitability for vertical jumping evaluation.
• The application of MIMUs to sprint mechanics requires further validation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the reliability and validity of MIMUs for analyzing 20-m sprint mechanics.
• To compare MIMU-derived sprint variables with force plate measurements.
• To determine the suitability of MIMUs for evaluating sprint performance determinants.

Main Methods:

• Four 20-m sprint bouts were analyzed using MIMUs placed at the lumbar spine.
• Sprint mechanics variables, including maximal power (P0), force (F0), and velocity (V0), were calculated.
• MIMU data was compared against force plate recordings for validity and reliability.

Main Results:

• Extremely large-to-very large correlations (r=0.88-0.94) were found between MIMU and force plate measurements for V0, F0, P0, and applied horizontal force loss (Sfv).
• Step-averaged force values showed high correlation (r=0.88) with a regression slope near identity.
• Intertrial reliability for MIMU measurements of sprint performance variables was very large-to-extremely large (r=0.72-0.96).

Conclusions:

• MIMUs demonstrate appropriate validity and reliability for assessing 20-m sprint performance variables.
• The findings support the use of MIMUs as a viable tool for biomechanical analysis of sprinting.
• Further research could explore MIMU applications in diverse athletic populations and conditions.