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Evaluation of force-time curve analysis methods in the isometric mid-thigh pull test
Junshi Liu1,2, Xingda Qu1, Michael H Stone3
1Institute of Human Factors and Ergonomics, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
Sports Biomechanics
|August 25, 2020
Summary
The first derivative analysis method accurately analyzes force-time curves for the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) test, offering a reliable alternative to manual visual analysis for athletic performance metrics.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Force-time curve analysis is crucial for evaluating athletic performance.
- Objective and reliable methods are needed for analyzing the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) test.
- Current manual analysis methods can be subjective.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare manual (visual analysis) and automatic methods for IMTP force-time curve analysis.
- To evaluate the accuracy and reliability of first derivative and threshold analysis techniques.
- To determine the most effective method for analyzing onset time and specific force variables.
Main Methods:
- Utilized visual analysis as the reference method.
- Employed first derivative and threshold analysis for automatic evaluation.
- Analyzed onset time and time-specific forces (50, 90, 200, 250 ms) from 93 collegiate athletes' IMTP trials.
- Applied weighted least products regression and Bland-Altman analysis for comparisons.
Main Results:
- First derivative analysis showed comparable onset time results to visual analysis (approx. 30 ms difference).
- Threshold analysis exhibited significant fixed and proportional bias.
- Time-specific force variables from first derivative analysis were closer to visual analysis results than threshold analysis.
- First derivative analysis demonstrated higher agreement with the reference visual method.
Conclusions:
- The first derivative analysis method is a valid and effective tool for IMTP force-time curve analysis.
- It provides a reliable and objective alternative to manual visual assessment.
- This method can enhance the accuracy of performance metrics derived from the IMTP test.
