A Factor Analysis of Fencing Performance and Injury

Abstract

There are many risks of injuries in the sport of fencing, and while most injuries are under the waist, wrist injuries also occur frequently. This study found that fencers in taiwan suffered an average of 1.5 injuries per year This is a signal for coaches and researchers to pay more attention to improving the man machine interface of fencing, and they should also enhance their education in sports science. By way of content analysis of each factor we found that most of the subjects agreed that the degree of professional knowledge and skill practice are highly associated with sports injuries. Subjects also agreed that reasonable scheduling could prevent injuries. The ”man machine interface” is another factor that is associated with injuries and performance, especially the hand tool system. In fencing, the design of the blade angle and the handle are both important, because improperly designed hand tools and devices have many undesired consequences, including accidents and injuries. An optimal blade angle cannot only reduce ulna deviation to avoid wrist injury, but can also enhance the fencer's performance. This study also found that 18° and 21° downward angles had the best overall performance. To effectively reduce sports injuries and to enhance sports performance, this study suggests that the man-machine interface design and development of fencing should be considered from the perspectives of ergonomics and sports science.