Kinematic differences between indoor and outdoor tug of war: A single case study

Abstract

The tug of war (TOW) is a sport with a high physical and technical demand. Very few investigations have been carried out on the biomechanics of TOW and all of them in the indoor modality. The main objective of this study is to describe and differentiate the kinematics of indoor and outdoor TOW. An experienced puller was recorded in two world championships of the two modalities in consecutive years. Although the position of the hands on the rope, the arms and the inclination of the body are similar, important differences were registered both in the lower body and in the position of the body, with both shoulders and hips forward in the case of the indoor modality and with the hip and left shoulder forward in the outdoor modality. This research evidences the different techniques used in the two modalities of TOW and their possible relationship both with the risk of injury to some parts of the body, and with the greater demands of these parts.