An innovative approach for real time determination of power and reaction time in a martial arts quasi- training environment using 3D motion capture and EMG measurements

Background Power and neural response are two fundamental elements in many martial arts striking. Currently, there are no practical methods exist to present these aspects to coaches and athletes in a training environment. This study introduced a new method for quantifying the two factors that could be used in real-time biofeedback training. Material/Methods: The new method consisted of self-developed optical signal system, EMG measurement and 3D motion capture. The quantification was done by using kinematics of the punching bag and striking limbs analyzed with self-developed dynamic calculation programs. The setup was very close to a training environment with neglect-able influence on an athlete performance. Results: The results showed that such quantification provided both total power and power components (i.e. linear & angular) of striking as well as the related response processes/time. Conclusions: Since the method could offer feedback of power intensity, attack accuracy, central and peripheral reaction time to coachers and athletes, it would have great potential to become a biofeedback tool in practice for increasing training efficiency and effectiveness.

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