THREE DIMENSIONAL PELVIS AND HIP INTERACTION DURING PUNT KICKING: SKILLED VERSUS NOVICE PLAYERS

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The purpose of this study was to examine the interrelationships between pelvis and hip kinematics and punt kicking proficiency during a series of kicks for maximum distance/velocity. Three dimensional data (500 Hz) were collected during punt kicks for maximum velocity performed by 15 semi professional (S-Pro) Rugby Union players and 15 male recreational (Rec) kicking sport athletes. Results showed that the punt kicking technique of the S-Pro group involved complex multiplanar pelvis movements, with greater emphasis on axial pelvis rotation than the Rec group. These movement patterns have the potential to increase the stretch-shorten cycle in the kicking leg. Conversely, the punt kicking technique of the Rec group involved simple flexion-extension pelvis and hip movement patterns, a strategy that appears to limit punt kicking ball velocity.