Jump for Effectiveness
Is this a valuable new movement analysis method?
By analyzing ground-force patterns after subjects jumped as high as possible, Australian researchers were able to devise a simple method of evaluating training or rehabilitation progress. Edith Cowan University (ECU) scientists analyzed participants’ moves “using a technique that you can use in the home or gym to assess whether your training or rehabilitation from an injury, illness or disease, is on track,” according to principal investigator Anthony J. Blazevich, PhD, professor, ECU School of Medical and Health Sciences.
Since preliminary findings are promising, investigators intend to continue testing the method on other movements, such as walking, stair climbing and running. If successful, the approach could be applied by fitness professionals, as well as medical professionals, to evaluate training efficacy.
Find the research in Royal Society Open Science (2020; 7 [8]).
Shirley Eichenberger-Archer, JD, MA
Shirley Archer, JD, MA, is an internationally acknowledged integrative health and mindfulness specialist, best-selling author of 16 fitness and wellness books translated into multiple languages and sold worldwide, award-winning health journalist, contributing editor to Fitness Journal, media spokesperson, and IDEA's 2008 Fitness Instructor of the Year. She's a 25-year industry veteran and former health and fitness educator at the Stanford Prevention Research Center, who has served on multiple industry committees and co-authored trade books and manuals for ACE, ACSM and YMCA of the USA. She has appeared on TV worldwide and was a featured trainer on America's Next Top Model.
