Effects of video filming angle on throwing form instruction: enhancing recognition of the "elbow dropped" position

[Purpose] This study aimed to elucidate the usefulness of stick figure images as visual feedback in recognizing the "elbow dropped" position among baseball players and to identify the optimal filming angle for such recognition. [Participants and Methods] Study participants were 51 male baseball players aged 11-15 years who had been diagnosed with throwing-related shoulder or elbow injuries and who also exhibited the "elbow dropped" position. Shadow throwing was filmed from four angles (front, rear, ventral, and dorsal), converted into stick figure images using SPLYZA Motion, and presented in three formats: standard playback, frame-by-frame, and still images. The ease of recognizing the "elbow dropped" position was evaluated using a Visual Analog Scale. [Results] The stick figure images were significantly easier for participants to interpret than the actual throwing videos. The front and dorsal filming angles provided the clearest visualization, followed by the rear and ventral filming angles. [Conclusion] Filming from a front or dorsal angle is the most effective method for teaching baseball players to recognize the "elbow dropped" position. Stick figure images may enhance the players' understanding of proper throwing mechanics.