Audio Feedback with the Use of a Smartphone in Sailing Training among Windsurfers

Abstract

The open-water training conditions in sailing sports limit the coach’s ability to provide instructions. Auditory feedback provided using a smartphone application in real-time seems to be a promising tool in the training process. The aim of the study was to assess the usefulness of a smartphone application created to support tactical decisions via an auditory display. Thirteen successful windsurfers competing in RS:X class took part in the study. The results, collected with the use of a questionnaire, related to the technical and aesthetic aspects of the functions as well as decision-making assistance of the application during upwind sailing races. Most of the competitors positively evaluated application function (54–85%). Real-time information about the deviation from the set course and information about potential tack change due to a changed wind direction were statistically significantly more helpful for less experienced windsurfers (rho = −0.68 and rho = −0.78, respectively) and those with lower sports level (rho = −0.63 and rho = −0.65, respectively). It can be concluded that the use of sound feedback in the conditions of training on-water in sailing has potential, primarily for younger and less experienced competitors. Quantitative evaluations of the sailing performance should be considered in further research on the functionality of the application.