MEASUREMENT OF STRIKING IMPACT KLNETKS VIA INERTIAL MODELLING AND ACCELEROMETRY

Abstract

Striking impact has teen explored repeatedly in combat sports. The majority of methods used in the literature require intricate equipment. This study implemented a novel and simple method of measuring impact kinetics using a common, commercially available striking bag. Impulse and peak force of impacts were determined, with reliability and validity statistics obtained from multiple impacts with a custom ballistic pendulum. Test-retest reliability calculations determined that all measures had acceptable reliability (CVI less than/ equal to 2.4%). Using linear regression modelling, the coefficient of determination scores displayed a good fit for the model (R exponent 2 greater than / equal to 0.96) when plotted with a spectrum of pendulum masses. This novel method represents a reliable and valid approach to measuring striking impact kinetics which is easily adaptable to any type of hanging striking target.