A Novel Approach for Baseball Pitch Analysis Using a Full Body Motion Analysis Suit: A Case Series Study

Abstract

Biomechanical analysis of the baseball pitch has been used for many years to improve pitching accuracy. Common biomechanical analysis has relied on motion analysis cameras in a laboratory setting. The primary aim of this descriptive case series study was to utilize a novel method using a portable wearable 3D motion analysis suit to measure leg length/stride length ratio, foot placement, and pitch accuracy. Four National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III varsity baseball pitchers participated in this study. The XSens™ MVN motion analysis suit was worn by each participant to measure body kinematics and a high-speed camera was utilized to record pitching accuracy. The average leg length to stride length ratio results was determined to be 77%. This ratio could be utilized rather than the traditional stride length to body height due to the variations in leg length. The results from this motion analysis procedure with a wearable portable suit and a high-speed camera may help improve pitching accuracy by identifying optimal mechanics for each individual pitcher.