Abstract
The motion and energy produced by the human body during sport are important factors in estimating athletic ability and in providing useful feedback in training. However, previous methods of measuring body motion and energy production have been too cumbersome to be used in daily training.
In this study, an accelerometer was used to estimate the motion and energy production of the body during rowing. The accelerometer, capable of measuring body acceleration in three dimensions, was worn on the back by an oarsman who carried out simulated rowing movements using a rowing ergometer. The rate of acceleration of the body during rowing showed distinct characteristics from which the body motion could be roughly estimated. The waveform of the acceleration made by a skilled oarsman was remarkably different to that made by a semi-skilled oarsman. Energy production during rowing was estimated by integrating the absolute value of the acceleration. The estimated results agreed well with power production gained from the performance monitor of the rowing ergometer.
Measuring acceleration is a simple and valuable method of estimating motion and energy production during sporting activities. It can also be used in biomechanical and kinesiological investigations.
