Development of the system to present the information for improvement of the pole works in Nordic walking

Abstract

Nordic walking, or walking with poles, is an effective aerobic activity that uses the whole body. We analyzed the acceleration data of the poles by monitoring sensors attached to the tips and grips of the poles. Using this system, we collected and analyzed data from both experts and beginners. Results from the frequency analysis of the acceleration indicated that there were two or more peaks in the data from the experts, while there was only one peak in the data from the beginners. Moreover, we found differences between the experts and the beginners in the timing of both the poles and the feet; these differences will be useful in differentiating between experts and beginners. We investigated the effects for indications on the features for the pole works. Using the results, we developed a program automatically to analyze the data and indicate the features by sounds during the pole work.