Go big or spin fast? Biomechanical deterministic models for snowboard freestyle tricks performed on a trampoline

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Snowboarding Performance Analysis

Background:

• Rotation is a key determinant of trick difficulty in snowboard freestyle.
• Athletes often use training tools like trampolines before on-snow practice.
• The specific biomechanical parameters influencing cork trick rotation remain uninvestigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of theoretically defined performance parameters on rotational amount in cork tricks.
• To develop deterministic models for halfpipe and kicker tricks on a trampoline.
• To differentiate between directions of rotation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized kinematic motion tracking to capture biomechanical data.
• Analyzed 157 cork tricks performed by 15 snowboarders on a trampoline with a bounce board.
• Employed random intercept models to construct deterministic models.

Main Results:

• Angular velocity, take-off velocity, and moment of inertia were identified as primary performance indicators for increasing rotation.
• These findings were consistent across different disciplines and rotation directions.
• Deterministic models demonstrated a high goodness-of-fit and statistical significance.

Conclusions:

• Angular velocity, take-off velocity, and moment of inertia are critical for enhancing rotation in snowboard freestyle.
• These insights can guide coaches and riders in skill acquisition and training.
• Understanding these parameters facilitates the learning of more complex aerial maneuvers.