The Open Sports Medicine Journal

2014, 8 : 23-27
Published online 2014 November 28. DOI: 10.2174/1874387001408010023
Publisher ID: TOSMJ-8-23

Comparative Analysis of Angles and Movements Associated with Sporting Gestures in Road Cyclists

Gabriel P. da Silva , Bruno Ferreira , Geraldo C. da Silva Onety , Edson D. Verri , Selma Siéssere , Marisa Semprini , Victor R. Nepomuceno , Saulo Fabrin and Simone C.H. Regalo
Department of Morphology, Physiology and Basic Pathology, Electromyography Laboratory, University of São Paulo - USP, Avenida do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto - SP, Brazil.

ABSTRACT

Objective:

To compare the angles of both hemibodies and movements associated with sporting gestures in road cyclists.

Methods:

Fifteen right-handed male road cyclists, with a mean age of 27 ± 4.25 years, participated in the study. Subjects who were younger than 18 years old or were previously diagnosed with posture impairment, motor disorders, and cognitive or mental deficits were excluded. Measurement procedures were performed using biophotogrammetry and kinemetry to analyze the angles and biomechanics of sporting gestures during the activities.

Results:

Based on the results of biophotogrammetry, the angles measured showed symmetry among the participants. The kinematics analysis revealed that the trunk flexion did not show any significant differences between the angles when the sporting gestures were performed. When the triple maximum flexion of the lower limbs and the maximum extension of the lower limbs were analyzed, a statistical significance (p < 0.05) between the angles in both sitting and standing positions was found. However, the results showed a direct association with the desired physiological movement, which did not affect the function.

Conclusion:

The results showed that the biomechanics of the angles between both hemibodies and the sporting gestures in cyclists were not affected. This finding is directed in particular to the implementation and planning of training practices that will raise the awareness among cyclists of their bodies and the appropriate adjustments of the bicycle components.

Keywords:

Biophotogrammetry, cycling, kinematics, posture, sporting gesture.