Reporting of Horizontal Force Velocity Data of Linear Cyclical Movement (e.g., Running)
Update to version: 5.6.1.0
Reporting of Horizontal Force Velocity Data of Linear Cyclical Movement (e.g., Running)
The following improvements are introduced in version 5.6.1.0:
1. Reporting of Horizontal Force Velocity Data of Linear Cyclical Movement (e.g., Running)
New feature displays individual force-velocity analysis (F/V) side by side of recorded speed, force, or power over time, based on one run at low resistance (1-3 kg). An added benefit compared to analysis based on multiple runs at different loads saves time and, we believe, a more accurate analysis eliminating heavy loading needed for the multiple load profiling. The validity of the method for straight running is well proven through documented research (see reference 1) and should work for skating as well.
How it works:
Perform a single resisted run at maximum effort with 1-3 kg load for a minimum distance of 30 m and ensure maximal speed is reached by the athlete. Calculation of the F/V assumes barometric pressure at sea level and temperature of 20 degrees centigrade. The effect of the light load from the 1080 Sprint is eliminated in the calculations of estimated max speed and splits.
To view F/V data, click on VIEW OPTIONS in the upper right corner. Select Time as Unit X, Speed as Unit Y, and F/V analysis option (See orange boxes). Side-by-side images will appear.
Linear graph displayed with X-axis Force N/kg (F0) over Y-axis Speed m/s.
Parabola displayed with X-axis Power W/kg (Pmax) over Y-axis Speed m/s.
Variables of Interest displayed include:
| Profiling Variable | Definition | Practical Interpretation & Use |
| F0 (N/kg) | Theoretical maximal horizontal force production, extrapolated from the linear sprint F-V relationship. | Maximal force output (per unit body mass) in the horizontal direction. Initial ballistic “push” of the athlete into the ground during sprint acceleration. |
| V0 (m/s) | Theoretical maximal running velocity, extrapolated from the linear sprint F-V relationship. | Sprint-running maximal velocity capability of the athlete should mechanical resistances be null. Ability to produce horizontal force at high velocities. |
| Pmax (W/kg) | Maximal mechanical power output in the horizontal direction. | Maximal power-output capability of the athlete in the horizontal direction (per unit body mass) during sprint acceleration. |
| RFmax (%) | Maximal ratio of force (RF), computed as ratio of step-average horizontal component of the ground reaction force to the corresponding resultant force @ 0.3 seconds | Theoretical maximal effectiveness of force application. Proportion of total force production that is directed in the forward direction of motion at start of sprint. |
| DRF (% per m/s) | Rate of decrease in RF with increasing speed during sprint acceleration. Computed as the slope of the linear RF-V relationship. | Describes the athlete’s capability to limit the inevitable decrease in mechanical effectiveness with increasing speed. |
| F=force; V=velocity; P=power; N=Newton; kg=kilogram; W=Watt; m=meter Definitions within table modified based on a publication by Delaney (See reference 2) |
||
| Profiling Variable | Definition | Practical Interpretation & Use |
| Estimated top speed Vtop (Max Speed) |
Maximal speed athlete can reach in an indoor environment with air resistance and no other external loading | Key number to follow and base for setting overspeed assistance and effects |
Parameters for horizontal FV profile calculations to be displayed:
- Resisted loading of 1-3 kg (No greater loads will be valid input)
- Movement distance recommended minimum of 30 meters
- Use NFW or Isotonic mode
Race-like Performance Summary data can be displayed by clicking the icon 
.
Performance Summary displays an estimation of how an athlete would perform an indoor, unloaded run with air friction. Please note, distances over 30 meters could be too optimistic as fatigue is not represented in the calculations. Click on the Yards/Meters button to change the “Race Predictions” display.
Update client height and weight information for accurate results. The analysis will calculate force using the body weight and height as entered in the client profile including the chosen resistance of the 1080 Sprint. Note: If you decide to analyze data from a previous date, edit the height and weight of the client at the date of testing for accuracy of results.
Height and weight should be entered in the edit client profile before selecting the F/V analyze option. Select the edit button right of the client’s name.
References
- A simple method for measuring power, force, velocity properties, and mechanical effectiveness in sprint running (univ-reunion.fr)
- Sprint acceleration mechanical profiling for the NFL draft
2. Improved display of values presented in tables
Units are now displayed in gray to contrast with the numerical data displayed in black. Decimal presentation is now more consistent with data reporting.
