Abstract des Autors

The purpose of this study was to investigate technique in the eggbeater kick and to identify factors contributing to height that can be maintained. The kinematics of the lower limbs of 12 players ranging in ability from novice to elite were quantified using three-dimensional videographic techniques. Mean height of the vertex of the head with respect to water level was used as the measure of performance. These heights ranged from 0.22 m to 0.42 m. The mean of the squared foot velocity (r=.85, p<.01), the percent contribution of the vertical and anteroposterior components of foot velocity (r=-72 and r=.72, respectively, p<.05) were strongly related to height. There were also substantial contributions due to mediolateral motion by all players, but this was not statistically related to height. Pitch angles were generally small throughout the kick cycle. Elite players maximized the period of positive pitch by appropriate use of ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion and eversion and inversion. The foot orientations and flow directions of the elite players suggested that effective technique involved sculling actions to utilize lift forces. Verf.-Referat