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Sensors Technology for Sports Biomechanics Applications

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Dear Colleagues,

Technology is increasingly present in the world of sports and performance. Systems designed for industry find their application in sports and biomechanics. Wearable sensors are advancing rapidly, and scientists are finding optimal solutions to monitor athletes in real situations. It is necessary to validate systems for these uses in applied studies. Additionally, reviewing technological advances in sports biomechanics is necessary due to the significant increase in publications related to these systems.

This Special Issue seeks papers committed to developing the integration of sensors in sports biomechanics applications. We are looking for original and review papers centered on the following topics, but not limited to them:

Validity and reliability of wearable devices for sport sciences;
Applications of technology for sport assessment;
Biomechanics analysis of sports movements with sensors;
Novel uses of sensors in sports performance;
State of the art of wearable devices for biomechanics applications.

Dr. Ana Vanessa Bataller-Cervero
Dr. César Berzosa Sánchez
Dr. Juan Rabal-Pelay
Prof. Dr. Eduardo Piedrafita Trigo
Guest Editors

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Research

16 pages, 6080 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Acceleration-Based Load Metrics: From Concepts to Implementation

by João Freitas, Alexandre Moreira, João Carvalho, Filipe Conceição and Luisa Estriga

Sensors 2025, 25(9), 2764; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25092764 - 27 Apr 2025

Viewed by 213

Abstract

Accelerometer-based wearables offer a cost-effective solution for managing match and training loads in invasion team sports. However, a multitude of acceleration-derived metrics, each employing different algorithms, has led to inconsistent and incomparable outcomes across studies and devices. This article reviews the mathematical procedures underlying whole-body mechanical load metrics, clarifies their conceptual differences, and proposes refinements to enhance standardization. Synthetic data were employed to investigate conceptual differences, while experimental accelerometric data (463 time series) from a set of elite handball training sessions (involving 16 players) were used to implement the corrected equations and analyze statistical relationships. Analysis of synthetic data revealed that derivative-based metrics, such as Jerk Modulus (typically referred to as Player Load) and corrected Accel’Rate (cAccel’Rate), tend to amplify noise compared to acceleration-based metrics, such as universal Dynamic Stress Load (uDSL) and Body Load. Experimental results indicated that when metrics were summed, their values were nearly identical. In time-series comparisons, Jerk Modulus and cAccel’Rate were predictably found to be nearly identical, while Body Load was the most distinct. Acceleration-based metrics are preferable to derivative-based ones. Sports scientists should lead the design and validation of such metrics, ensuring methodological rigor, transparency, and innovation while preventing commercial interests from introducing rebranded variables with undisclosed scaling factors and unclear calculations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors Technology for Sports Biomechanics Applications)

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11 pages, 2114 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kinematic Analysis of Free Vertical Split with 720° Turn in Elite Chinese Rhythmic Gymnastics

by Tao Liu, Liangsen Wang, Liquan Gao and Yuliang Sun

Sensors 2025, 25(9), 2667; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25092667 - 23 Apr 2025

Viewed by 296

Abstract

This study investigates the kinematic characteristics of the free vertical split with 720° turn (C 807). C 807 is the international designation in rhythmic gymnastics for a free vertical split with a 720° turn. This research holds significant importance in enhancing the technical proficiency of gymnasts and reducing their risk of injury. Eight national-level female gymnasts (age = 20 ± 3 years) performed the C 807. Kinematic data were collected using a 3D motion capture system. The movement was divided into four phases, and Visual 3D (V6.0, CMotion, Germantown, MD, USA) software was used for data processing and analysis. The joint angles of the upper and lower limbs, as well as the torsion angles of the lower limb joints, were analyzed. Key findings included tibial torsion, knee hyperextension in the support leg, and changes in elbow flexion during each phase. The center of mass (COM) trajectory showed that, during the backward preparatory swing phase, COM height gradually decreased and slightly increased before the initiation phase. In the initiation phase, COM height initially decreased and then increased, while the rotation phase showed fluctuating but stable COM height. The results highlight the importance of joint angle control and COM fluctuations during movement. Training should focus on leg swing speed, lower limb strength, knee stability, and upper limb coordination to enhance balance, improve rotation speed, and prevent injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors Technology for Sports Biomechanics Applications)

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