APPLICATIONS FOR CLUSTER ANALYSIS IN SPORT BIOMECHANICS

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the use of cluster analysis in sport biomechanics. A cluster analysis is a multivariate statistical technique used to group objects based on their characteristics. This technique was used to identify: (a) Five different movement phases in the hammer throw based on 3D kinematic data of an elite level male athlete; and (b) Three different golf swing styles based on the vertical ground reaction torque produced by twenty-nine male golfers. In both applications the cluster analysis provided valuable information about the skill techniques and highlighted possible deficiencies of previous research. This information can be used to make valid assessments of each skill with relevant feedback provided to coaches and athletes.