Measurement Methods: Determination of Ergonomic Sport Surfaces in Terms of Sportive Performance

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of different sport surfaces on sportive performance by means of muscle performance. 112 elite athletes, aged between 17 and 26, participated in this study. This study was executed on 8 different sport surfaces: asphalt, synthetic grass, natural grass, tile powder, soil, wooden parquet, full polyurethane and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer). Leg strength (LS), back strength (BS) and vertical jumping height (VJH) were measured at rest and after a given training protocol on each surface. Asphalt and synthetic grass were the most fatiguing, natural grass, soil and tile powder were moderately fatiguing, parquet and polyurethane were the least fatiguing surfaces. Then the surface compliance was evaluated with a drop test using a medicine ball and it was observed that achived results were consistent with those obtained in LS, BS and VJH tests. According to the test results as the hardness of the surface increased the performance of the athletes was decreased. The results of the present study suggest that it is better to use parquet and polyurethane in construction of indoor sport surfaces.Jpn J Phys Fitness Sports Med, 61(2): 237-241 (2012)