A BIOMECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF THE INSTEP KICK IN SOCCER WITH PREFERRED AND NON-PREFERRED FOOT

Authors

  • Andrew J. Harrison
  • Antoin Mannering

Keywords:

laterality, kinematics, dynamical systems

Abstract

This study examined the kinematics of preferred and non-preferred instep kicking action in competitive soccer players. Using two gen-locked cameras, SHVS video data were obtained for seven players completing eight maximal effort instep kicks at a target with both feet. 3D kinematic analysis was carried out using Peak Motus to obtain joint angles of the standing and kicking legs and the frontal plane pelvic tilt angle. The results showed that when kicking with the preferred limb, the players’ standing foot was closer to the ball and they used a larger frontal plane pelvic tilt angle and greater knee extension of the kicking leg at ball impact. There was greater variability in the kicking leg knee angle and this is consistent with Dynamical Systems Theory.

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Published

2007-11-01

Issue

Section

Coaching and Sports Activities