THE INFLUENCE OF ARTIFICIAL TURF WITH DIFFERING MECHANICAL PROPERTIES ON TURNING MOVEMENTS

Abstract

Various mechanical tests are made to ensure artificial surfaces fulfil the regulations of the sports governing bodies. There is little available research regarding differences in player response between surfaces with different mechanical properties or similar surfaces under different environmental conditions. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the player response in a game-sports specific movement on an artificial turf with under different conditions (temperature and mechanical properties). Five footballers completed three shuttle sprints on two artificial turfs. Trial times were recorded (timing gates) and ankle kinematics were measured (CODA motion analysis). Players were significantly faster on the higher temperature, softer surface with higher rotational resistance. No differences were found in contact times and joint kinematics. These findings highlight the differences between surfaces.