The Measurement Method of the Impact Force of Shoulder Tackle and the Influence of the Lower-Extremity Strength on the Impact Force of Shoulder Tackle in Rugby Players

Abstract

With the rapid development of Internet of things engineering, intelligent sports products are gradually understood by people, providing help for the health and performance of athletes. In rugby training, coaches record and observe the force of data only based on their own experience; the impact force (IF) of shoulder tackle (ST) is a key defensive ability evaluation component for rugby players. However, the information related to female rugby players is limited. Purpose. To understand the strength characteristics of the lower-extremity of rugby players and to develop theoretical references for ST training. Methods. The force sensing device is made with FLexiForceTMA502 pressure sensor, its data acquisition adopts LabVIEW and USB. The strength of the lower extremity was tested by IsoMed 2000, and the IF of ST was measured by a testing system among eighteen Chinese female rugby players, respectively. Results. (1) The reliability and validity of the impact force tester are tested by comparing the actual load with the calibration value and the difference and correlation between the actual load value of different loads and the calibration value of it. (2) At 60°/s and 180°/s, the PT (PT) and relative PT (PT/BW) of bilateral lower-extremity extensors were greater than the flexors. (3) The flexor/extensor PT ratio of the left knee at 60°/s was higher than the right knee. (4) The linear regression equation was established between PT of dominant-side knee extensors and IF of ST. The coefficient β of the linear regression equation was 0.866, 0.862, 0.892, 0.722, 0.788, and 0.737, respectively. Conclusions. (1) The design uses LabVIEW, USB, and FLexiForceTM A502 pressure sensor to complete the overall construction of the data acquisition system and impact force sensing device. (2) It is feasible to use the extensor strength of the dominant-side knee joint as a reference index to evaluate the IF of ST. (3) The balanced development of the front/reverse ST techniques can enhance its defensive capacity of it.