EFFECTS OF ANKLE STABILlZATION ON PUSH-OFF MECHANICS FROM A THREE-POINT STANCE IN FOOTBALL

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of taping and bracing on push-off mechanics from a three-point football stance. Nineteen males were tested under three ankle stabilization conditions: braced, taped, and control. Participants performed five trials in each condition. Two 250Hz video cameras and a forceplate were used to collect data. A MANOVA with repeated measures revealed a significant main effect for condition. Post hoc analysis indicated that bracing and taping resulted in reduced minimum and maximum ankle angles and maximum angular velocity compared to the control. The horizontal velocity of the center of mass at takeofffor the tape condition was significantly lower than the control. Bracing and taping can have a negative effect on push-off mechanics.