Analysis of the Eggbeater Kick Used to Maintain Height in Water Polo

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate technique in the eggbeater kick and to identity factors contributing to height that can be maintained. The kinematics of the lower limbs of 12 players ranging in ability from novice to elite were quantified using three-dimensional videographic techniques. Mean height of the vertex of the head with respect to water level was used as the measure of performance. These heights ranged from 0.22 m to 0.42 m. The mean of the squared fool velocity (r = .85, p < .01), the percent contribution of the vertical and anteroposterior components of foot velocity (r = −.72 and r = .72, respectively, p < .05) were strongly related to height. There were also substantial contributions due to mediolateral motion by all players, but this was not statistically related to height. Pitch angles were generally small throughout the kick cycle. Elite players maximized me period of positive pitch by appropriate use of ankle dorsi-flexion and plantar-flexion and eversion and inversion. The foot orientadons and flow directions of the elite players suggested that effective technique involved sculling actions to utilize lift forces.