Algorithm for the analysis of kinematic characteristics of running

Abstract

Biomechanics of motor actions solves the problems of analysis of external motor events - kinematic and dynamic movement parameters. Inertial measurement devices such as gyroscope and accelerometer are used for biomechanical analysis of human movements. The paper describes an algorithm for analysis of kinematic characteristics of the running based on inertial gyro signals. Running is used to estimate the physical performance, endurance, coordination abilities of a person. Gyroscope signals were registered using the TrignoTM Wireless System. For data analysis in the MATLAB, the software for automated evaluation of electromyographic and biomechanical motion patterns was developed. The algorithm allows one to calculate time, spatial and spatial-to-time parameters of motion, symmetry of movements of the left and right limbs, and also stability of repetition of biomechanical movement pattern. The algorithm includes the following stages: 1) adaptive filtering of signals; 2) identification of movement phases; 3) calculation of spatial and time symmetry of left and right limbs; 4) analysis of the repetition stability of biomechanical movement pattern. The proposed algorithm was used to estimate the motor coordination potential of high-skilled athletes in longdistance running. The research made it possible to estimate individual features of work of each group of muscles for each sportsman while performing a test task with stepwisely increasing load on a running track. This approach is a tool to detect asymmetric work of paired muscle groups and of muscle groups with irrational workability. The proposed algorithm for the analysis of running kinematic characteristics can be used to develop new criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of solving a movement problem, as well as to assess the correctness of the movement technique and identify errors that can lead to injuries.