Effect of Ability on Twisting Techniques in Forward Somersaults on the Trampoline

Abstract

This study was designed to investigate the effect of ability on technique in the forward somersault with half twist (Barani) and the forward somersault with one and one half twists (Rudi) on the trampoline. Eleven trampolinists ranging in ability from elite (national representative) to early intermediate (regional representative) were analyzed using three-dimensional analysis techniques. Cumulative twist angle, rate of twist, angle of tilt of the twist axis, chest rotation, hip angle, and hip lateral flexion angle were measured. Characteristics of the arm actions were also assessed using an internal frame of reference. To generate twist in the Baranis, trampolinists tilted the axis between 5° and 14°; the amount of tilt was inversely related to ability (p < .05). In the Rudis, subjects tilted the axis between 15° and 23° using more asymmetrical arm actions and larger and more rapid hip extensions, hip lateral flexions, and chest rotations than in the Baranis. The timing and magnitude of the actions differed among the subjects and were related to ability.