KINETIC LINK - DOES IT EXISTS IN THE KUDA AND SILA SERVE KICKING TECHNIQUE OF SEPAK-TAKRAW?

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if the kuda and sila kicking technique exhibits the kinetic link theory of proximal-to-distal sequencing. Seven Qualisys ProReflex MCU 1000 cameras operating at 240 Hz captured nine highly skilled male sepak-takraw players performing both the kuda and sila service technique. The best kuda and sila serve kick based on the highest ball velocity, net clearance and ball placement accuracy was selected and analyzed for final analysis. Comparisons of angular velocity histories of the thigh, shank and foot segment showed comparable thigh, shank and foot angular velocity patterns. No differences were observed for thigh, shank and foot angular velocities at ballcontact. Moreover, angular velocity pattern indicated that the kicking sequence for both kuda and sila technique does not exhibit the kinetic link theory of proximal-to-distal sequencing, except for he initial 10% from toe-off. As such, the kinetic link theory should not be applied to describe the kicking patterns of both kuda and sila service techniques. The implication to sepak-takraw coaches is to work on the technique of a single segment leg action to produce maximum momentum prior to ball-contact.