A Comparison of Video and Accelerometer Based Approaches Applied to Performance Monitoring in Swimming

Andrew J Callaway,Ian Jones,Jon E Cobb

doi:10.1260/1747-9541.4.1.139

Andrew J Callaway, Ian Jones + Show 1 more

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https://doi.org/10.1260/1747-9541.4.1.139

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Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present a comparison of video- and sensor-based studies of swimming performance. The video-based approach is reviewed and contrasted to the newer sensor-based technology, specifically accelerometers based upon Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology. Results from previously published swim performance studies using both the video and sensor technologies are summarised and evaluated against the conventional theory that upper arm movements are of primary interest when quantifying free-style technique. The authors conclude that multiple sensor-based measurements of swimmers' acceleration profiles have the potential to offer significant advances in coaching technique over the traditional video based approach.

Highlights

The principal aim of this paper is to describe how measurement of swimming performance, using miniature accelerometers offers advantages of greater accuracy and a broader range of performance measures compared to that afforded by the traditional video-based approach
Quantitative measurement of swimming performance has been achieved by analysis of video footage, whereas more recently miniature sensors in the form of accelerometers and gyroscopes have been fixed to the swimmer to record performance data such as stroke type and stroke rate [2]
OBTAINED USING ACCELEROMETER BASED ANALYSIS OF FRONT CRAWL SWIMMING Data obtained from accelerometer based measurements can be processed to extract a range of useful information, including the velocity of the swimmer [16], the angles of the joints [36], and body roll [34, 43, 44]

Summary

Introduction

The principal aim of this paper is to describe how measurement of swimming performance, using miniature accelerometers offers advantages of greater accuracy and a broader range of performance measures compared to that afforded by the traditional video-based approach. In support of this objective, we review the methodology and results of several video and accelerometer based studies of swimming performance. Quantitative measurement of swimming performance has been achieved by analysis of video footage, whereas more recently miniature sensors in the form of accelerometers and gyroscopes have been fixed to the swimmer to record performance data such as stroke type and stroke rate [2]. Video analysis uses either two or three cameras placed at various positions in and/or above the pool

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