Kinematic Analysis of Top American Female 100-meter Hurdlers

Six of the top 10 American female 100-meter hurdlers were analyzed for biomechanical factors. This was accomplished by using three 16mm Locam high-speed cameras operating at 100/fps. The first five strides out of the blocks and the strides prior to, over, and after the fourth hurdle were analyzed for kinematic parameters. Stride lengths, support times, and nonsupport times were measured out of the blocks and about the fourth hurdle. Additional information concerning the knee angle of the lead leg at ground contact and the distance between the whole body center of gravity (WBCG) and the center of gravity (CG) of the lead leg’s foot at ground contact were also analyzed about the fourth hurdle. Generally, the women who were in the air the shortest amount of time for the first two strides out of the blocks obtained the greatest velocity in the first five strides. Also, the results of this study indicate that it may not be a question of needing to flex the knee of the lead leg coming off the hurdle to decrease...