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THE RELIABILITY OF A COMMERCIAL ACCELEROMETER UNIT DURING ANAEROBIC TESTING OF COMPETITIVE ATHLETES

Abstract

Molly N. Schieber, Dave Heller, Nicole Moodie; Rockhurst University, Kansas City, Missouri

e-mail: SchieberM@hawks.rockhurst.edu

Accelerometers are a tool that can be used to objectively measure frequency, duration, and intensity of a physical activity and exercise. An easily accessible tool such as an accelerometer could be beneficial to a widespread range of athletes. PURPOSE: This aim of the present study was to test the reliability of designated G-force measures obtained by a commercial accelerometer. METHODS: Fourteen competitive athletes (10 male, 4 female) volunteered to attend one anaerobic testing session. At the beginning of the session athletes completed a required warm-up consisting of a 5 minute jog, stretching of major muscle groups, and two progressive 50 yard sprints. After the warm-up the accelerometer was placed on the athletes’ back between the shoulder blades and anchored at two points with adhesive. Athletes then completed two 40 yard dashes with a 5 minute rest interval between trials. RESULTS: Data from the accelerometer unit was analyzed using software created by the unit developer. Based on the G-forces recorded by the accelerometer unit, the software created explosion, right-left symmetry, efficiency, and propulsion scores. Paired samples t-tests determined no significant differences between trial 1-trial 2 scores for explosion [t(13)=0.186, p<0.05], right-left symmetry t(13)=0.181, p<0.05], efficiency [t(13)=-1.984, p<0.05], and propulsion [t(13)=-1.969, p<0.05]. CONCLUSION: The lack of significant difference in these measures shows the test/re-test reliability of the Impulse accelerometer.

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