Date of Award

Fall 12-1-2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Physical Education

First Advisor

Alfred Finch

Second Advisor

Blanche W. Evans

Third Advisor

Kathy S. Boone-Tovey

Abstract

This study examined the effect of relative lateral foot placement in the starting blocks on the sprint start. The sprinting kinematics during the first four steps out of the blocks were examined. Eight females from the a Midwest University Track and Field team performed sprint starts using a pair of modified Fusion I starting blocks. These starting blocks were made in double wide configuration to accommodate a variety of foot placements. Foot placements were determined using relative hip to ankle angle. Experimental hip-ankle angles were± five degrees (Narrow/Wide), and zero degrees (neutral). The sprinters were recorded with four cameras at 60Hz, segment markers were identified, and floor markers being placed at one meter intervals. Markers were digitized, transformed, and digitally filtered at 7 Hz using the Ariel AP AS. Kinematic variables of horizontal displacement of CM, horizontal velocity, lateral deviation from linear footpaths, stride length, and stride frequency were examined and analyzed with repeated measures ANOV A. Significant differences were found between horizontal velocities (p = .06) during the four steps. A significant difference was found between lateral deviations of linear foot paths (p = .02) during the four steps. The lateral deviations from liner footpaths deviated significantly less in the narrow condition. In addition, horizontal velocities were found to be greater for the neutral condition. From these findings it can be concluded that there is a possible advantage to athletes which utilize a neutral staring position.

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