Application of a system for measuring plantar pressure in biomechanical studies of speed skating technique

the article presents the results of a study of the distribution of plantar pressure in speed skaters using a modern NovelTM Pedar-X measuring system in combination with the Mymotion inertial motion capture system. Eight Chinese male speed skaters aged 15-18 years took part in the experiment, which was conducted from January to March 2024. A comparative analysis of the pressure indicators on the soles of both feet was performed during straight-line movement and turns. It was found that when moving in a straight line, the average pressure on the right sole exceeds that of the left by 14%, while in turns, the opposite trend is observed with an increase in the load on the left foot. Significant variability in plantar pressure was revealed, due to the individual characteristics of the technique and anthropometric characteristics of the athletes. The ranges of minimum and maximum pressure values are determined, reaching a tenfold difference between the phases of the movement cycle. The obtained data demonstrate the efficiency of using plantar pressure measurement systems for objectifying the analysis of technical fitness of speed skaters, individualizing the training process and optimizing sports equipment. The results of the study can be used to improve the biomechanical structure of athletes' movements and develop targeted methods for increasing the efficiency of speed skating technique.

speed skating, biomechanics, plantar pressure, NovelTM Pedar-X system, inertial sensors, speed skating technique, movement asymmetry, load distribution, kinematic analysis, sports biomechanics