Development of a portable microcontroller-based start block performance analysis device for sprint athletes

Abstract

The start phase is a crucial techniques in sprinting. A good start is characterized by an extraordinary force exerted in the horizontal direction. This study develops a start block that can read a three-axis force and a practical device to monitor the sprint start technique based on the force exerted by the feet and block time at the start. The foot pedals obtain feet pushing forces at the start block. These foot pedals are equipped with load cell sensors that record forces in the X (front–back), Y (right–left), and Z (up–down) axes. The start block processes the sensor readings using a microcontroller. The data can be viewed using a smartphone or other mobile devices. The block time is calculated by analyzing the output force reading on the start block. Load Cell testing and calibration were performed for the two load cells used. Measurement results showed a very good linear correlation (>0.99). This linearity indicates that the system can properly measure the load for the tested range. To test the device, A total of 6 elite-level athletes performed two maximum sprints over a distance of 10 m during two separate testing sessions. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to determine each parameter’s reliability. The device showed high reliability (p > 0.5) on the Lx, Lz, Rx, and Rz axes, while the Ly and Ry axes had relatively moderate reliability. This result shows that the Lx, Lz, Rx, and Rz axes gave reliable measurements during the two separate testing sessions. In addition, the device produced accurate data readings, which correlated well with sprint performance. Thus, the developed device is suitable for biomechanical analysis of sprinting starts.