Assessment of the mechanical properties of area-elastic sport surfaces with video analysis.

Abstract

Mechanical properties of a surface are assumed to be of importance with respect to injuries, comfort, and performance in sport. For a better understanding of the factors that do influence the etiology of injuries as well as comfort, a method was developed to compare mechanical characteristics of wooden area-elastic indoor surfaces. The method was based on video analysis of markers mounted on the surface during tests using human subjects performing movements. The method provided information concerning deflection, area-elasticity, and vibration. With the proposed methodology it was possible to detect differences with respect to these variables in differently built wooden sport surfaces. The accuracy of the analysis was greater than 0.1 mm. The results show that it was possible to use the proposed methodology in the assessment of the area-elastic wooden sport surfaces. This information may be at help in understanding the relation between surface characteristics and surface-related injuries, comfort, and possible fatigue.