3D ANALYSIS OF THE BODY CENTRE OF MASS IN ROCK CLIMBING

Abstract

The purposes of this study were: to test an experimental protocol for the analysis of basic rock climbing movements; to find whether it is possible to identify a golden standard strategy for the proposed movements. 12 recreational climbers were involved in the study. Each subject climbed a 3m horizontal shift followed by a 3m ascent. Climbers could choose their own style, their preferred speed and holds. Acquisition were performed using an optoelectronic system with reflective passive markers, attached to the subjects' joints. Results show that two main climbing strategies can be identified: the first preferring agility over force and the second preferring force over agility; we also found out that, good climbers try to minimize power, during the whole trial. These results would be our starting point for new experimental sessions.