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Individual Acceleration-Speed Profile Variables: Comparison and Reliability Between Linear and Curvilinear Sprints
Sergio Miras-Moreno1, Amador García-Ramos1,2, Matic Sašek3
1Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
This study found that while individual acceleration-speed profiles (ASP) fit well for both linear and curvilinear sprints, combining multiple trials improves reliability for monitoring performance. Linear sprints show higher maximal velocity and slope but lower maximal acceleration compared to curvilinear sprints.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Performance Analysis
Background:
- The acceleration-speed profile (ASP) is a valuable tool for analyzing sprint performance.
- Understanding the reliability and validity of ASP in different sprint types (linear vs. curvilinear) is crucial for accurate performance monitoring.
- Previous research has primarily focused on linear sprints, leaving a gap in knowledge regarding curvilinear sprint analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare linear sprints (LS) and curvilinear sprints (CS) regarding the goodness-of-fit of individual ASP.
- To evaluate the magnitude and reliability (within- and between-session) of ASP variables (A 0, S 0, AS slope) between LS and CS.
- To determine the optimal method for modeling ASP in CS for reliable performance tracking.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-one participants performed multiple LS and CS trials across two experimental sessions.
- Individual ASPs were modeled using either the single best trial or a combination of three trials for each sprint type.
- Key ASP variables, including theoretical maximal acceleration (A 0), theoretical maximal velocity (S 0), and AS slope, were calculated and analyzed for goodness-of-fit and reliability.
Main Results:
- Individual ASPs demonstrated a very high goodness-of-fit for both LS and CS, with slightly better fit for the best trial compared to combined trials.
- Linear sprints exhibited significantly higher S 0 and AS slope, but lower A 0 compared to curvilinear sprints.
- ASP variables showed acceptable within-session absolute reliability, but relative reliability for AS slope was poor. Between-session reliability was better for combined trials.
Conclusions:
- The ASP can be effectively applied to monitor curvilinear sprint performance.
- Combining multiple trials for ASP modeling enhances between-session reliability, making it preferable for performance monitoring.
- Differences in ASP variables between linear and curvilinear sprints highlight distinct biomechanical demands.
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