Abstract

In order to quantify internal forces and articular moments, by the inverse dynamics method, specially at lumbar level, an experimental laboratory apparatus to analyze kinematics and 3D kinetics of rowers was developed. It comprised a 3D motion analysis system, a Type C Concept II ergometer, three force-plates, six axes and two miniature mono-dimensional force transducers. The apparatus was designed for each hand, with two miniature transducers integrated into new steel handles to measure the force developed by each hand. Furthermore, the apparatus was also designed for each foot. Two force platforms were placed under two new foot stretchers to measure force and moment developed by each foot. The ergometer also has a sliding seat under which was placed a miniature force platform. A study of the rowing movement of a regional level competition rower demonstrated the relevance of the data. This study was concerned with the 3D kinetics parameters expressed in the medio-lateral, anterio-posterior and vertical axes. Some obtained data are novel or rarely associated together and enable a better understanding of the rower movement. Verf.-Referat