A new time measurement method using a high-end global navigation satellite system to analyze alpine skiing

Res Q Exerc Sport. 2011 Sep;82(3):400-11. doi: 10.1080/02701367.2011.10599772.

Abstract

Accurate time measurement is essential to temporal analysis in sport. This study aimed to (a) develop a new method for time computation from surveyed trajectories using a high-end global navigation satellite system (GNSS), (b) validate its precision by comparing GNSS with photocells, and (c) examine whether gate-to-gate times can provide more detailed information about alpine skiing performance. The results demonstrated small mean time differences with no systematic bias, with a velocity dependent scatter of time differences, which diminished at higher velocities. Furthermore, the multiple gate-to-gate and lag times demonstrated that the GNSS enabled a more detailed analysis compared to photocells. The measurements using GNSS showed high validity and potential as a tool for more specific analysis of performance in skiing.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Athletic Performance*
  • Female
  • Geographic Information Systems*
  • Humans
  • Linear Models
  • Male
  • Mathematical Concepts
  • Running
  • Satellite Communications*
  • Skiing*
  • Young Adult