BIOMECHANICAL ANALYSIS: EXPLORING GENDER-SPECIFIC DIFFERENCES IN VELOCITY-BASED STRENGTH TRAINING

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to enhance the control of the efficacy of the exercise squat with a barbell during velocity-based strength training (VBST) for female and male athletes. This will be achieved through a biomechanical analysis utilising innovative technologies (within the framework of the project «Digital Twin»). Methodology. Two independent groups were compared to determine the differences in the optimal balance function and strength exercises technique biomechanical indicators between male (n = 24, age = 19.83 ± 3.06, height = 1.84 ± 0.12 m; body mass = 77.2 ± 5.4 kg) and female (n = 17, age = 20.11 ± 3.12, height = 1.78 ± 0.11 m; body mass = 58.12 ± 4.15 kg) athletes. To evaluate the degree of development of the balance function in athletes, standard and complex Romberg tests with open and closed eyes were conducted with the assistance of the Stabilan-01 complex. The innovative development of OpenCap permitted the analysis of the dynamics of movement in the execution of a squat with a barbell exercise by male and female athletes. Results. The application of cutting-edge biomechanical analysis technologies has transformed the field of VBST by offering realtime feedback and objective, data-driven methodologies. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.01) was observed between male and female athletes in terms of their balance function. The male athletes exhibited diminished Romberg coefficients, quality of equilibrium function, and angular velocity asymmetry coefficients relative to their female counterparts. Furthermore, male athletes exhibited a positive accumulated offset angle and higher asymmetry coefficients of the sagittal velocity component and the ratio of linear and angular velocities, whereas female athletes demonstrated negative accumulated offset angles. A biomechanical analysis of the squat with a barbell revealed that female and male athletes exhibited distinct centers of gravity, which influenced the recommended knee angles for each gender to ensure effective and safe execution. The implementation of OpenCap, a web-based software program, has revolutionized the analysis of body position during VBST. The 3D kinematic evaluation offers an economical and dependable alternative to conventional techniques, facilitating a deeper comprehension of athletes’ movements and exercise methodologies. Conclusions. The biomechanical analysis of the squat with a barbell exercise in VBST for female and male athletes using OpenCap technology reveals significant differences in the location of centers of gravity between genders. These differences have significant implications for the recommendation of optimal knee angles during the exercise, with the objective of ensuring effective and safe execution for both female and male athletes.