Differences in motion adaptation to visual limitation in softball players by ball-catching skill levels

Abstract

    The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of visual limitations on the motion involved in ball-catching tasks. Of the 19 female participants, 7 were intermediate-level softball players, while 12 were primary-level softball players. The 2 groups of players performed the ball-catching tasks under 3 different conditions. In the normal condition, no limitations were imposed on the participants. The visual limitation condition included limitations of about 20 degrees of down view, and the third condition included the limitation involved in the visual limitation condition and a fastball condition. The intermediate-level players adapted to their visual limitations by using a ball-catching position in which they moved forward by increasing the distance between their feet and hands, while primary-level players adapted by moving their head more downward. These differences in adaptation observed, show the differences between the 2 groups in relation to the motion involved in ball-catching tasks. However, these differences are difficult to explain in the context of basic motion. We therefore conclude that visual limitations can help intermediate-level players acquire the expert motion involved in ball-catching tasks.