ANALYSIS OF LOWER LIMB MOVEMENT IN ELITE FEMALE RACE WALKERS UNDER NEW RULES

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In 1996, the rules for race-walking were revised under NO.191 of International Competitive Rules of Track and Field. There were substantial differences in content from previously established guidelines. The changes are as follows: First, only referees can determine the disqualifying technique of race-walkers. Secondly, with every step, the leg must be straight when it comes in contact with the ground and must remain in a locked state until the vertical-supporting phase. This stage is defined as when the player’s body is vertical with ground. However, this was not defined in the original rules (Zong and Lu, 1997). Due to these changes, techniques available for race-walking have to be reviewed. Moreover, strict adherence to the new technique is the key for athletes to avoid disqualification. The purpose of this paper was to analyze the technique generalities of lower limbs of elite race-walkers based on biomechanical principles and to provide information to coaches and athletes for improvement in performance.