3D KINEMATIC ANALYSIS OF THE KUDA AND SILA SERVICE TECHNIQUE

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify differences in kicking kinematics between the kuda and service technique. Nine highly skilled male sepak-takraw players performed both kuda and sila serves. All trials were captured using seven Qualisys ProReflex MCU 1000 cameras operating at 240 Hz. The best kuda and sila serve (highest ball velocity, net clearance and ball placement accuracy) was selected and analyzed for final analysis. Comparisons of selected kinematic variables were made between the two techniques at ball-contact using the paired Student t-test (p<0.05). 3-D analysis revealed differences in kicking patterns between the two serves from start of force-production to follow-through. No differences were observed for thigh, shank and foot angular velocities at ball-contact between the two techniques. However, significantly larger kuda hip flexion and abduction range of motion at ball-contact suggests possibly that technique is the major contributor of high velocity kuda serves in sepak-takraw. The implication to sepak-takraw coaches is to improve the player´s hip joint mobility and to work on the technique of a single segment leg action.