Validation of an Automatic Inertial Sensor-Based Methodology for Detailed Barbell Velocity Monitoring during Maximal...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Engineering

Background:

• Inertial measurement units (IMUs) are established for tracking barbell velocity in strength training.
• Current IMU applications often provide limited velocity metrics (e.g., mean, maximal).
• There is a need for comprehensive velocity profiling in Paralympic strength sports.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate a single IMU-based method for automatically determining the full barbell velocity profile.
• To assess key performance metrics during maximal Paralympic bench press using IMUs.
• To compare IMU-derived data against a video-based reference system.

Main Methods:

• Seven Paralympic powerlifters performed maximal Paralympic bench press attempts.
• A custom algorithm processed IMU linear acceleration data to derive the barbell velocity profile.
• Data were validated against a synchronized video-based reference system.

Main Results:

• The IMU method demonstrated a mean difference of 0.00 ± 0.04 m·s−1 compared to video analysis.
• Low limits of agreement (<0.09 m·s−1) and moderate-to-good reliability (ICC: 0.55−0.90) were observed.
• High spatial similarity and small differences in velocity curves indicate strong agreement between methods (r: 0.57−0.91).

Conclusions:

• The proposed IMU methodology offers a valid and reliable approach for comprehensive barbell velocity monitoring.
• This technology is suitable for diverse applications in maximal Paralympic bench press analysis.
• It expands the utility of IMUs beyond basic velocity metrics in strength training.