Run and Gait Analysis in Junior Badminton Players of South Asia

Abstract

An ideal walking and running pattern are very important for an athlete. Badminton is a physically demanding sport and it is not uncommon for players to have muscle tightness and imbalances that may cause restricted joint range of motion and body load asymmetry. Detection and prevention of these abnormal patterns may help prevent injuries and result in overall improvement in performance. Accordingly, the study was proposed to analyse the gait and run pattern in junior badminton players and understand the importance of prevention of muscle tightness and imbalance. A total of 100 players from South Asia between the age of 8 and 15 years were analysed. Walker View system of Tecnobody Italy was used. Variables measured were gender, height, age, body mass index, and experience in years, level at which they play, current pain, and clicks & catches in the past 1 year. Our study showed that there were quite a few factors that affected an athlete's gait and run pattern. There needs to be a greater focus on early detection of these abnormalities and on prevention of muscle tightness and imbalances with the help of specific training, strength & conditioning, and rehabilitation as part of the development of junior badminton players.