Development of a live feedback system for kayak boat movement

Abstract

In dynamic water kayaking sports, obtaining the best optimal performance requires an athlete to paddle with the most optimal amount of force and technique. The primary driving force and direction comes from the athlete’s paddle stroke technique and is widely influenced by the arms and shoulders from the upper body and the rotation of the torso. On the other hand, the lower body also plays an important role in kayaking performance As a well-coordinated leg drive on the footrest (push force) braces (pull force) helps to enhance the athlete’s synchronization with the kayak, improving stability and facilitating the transfer of power from the athlete to propel the kayak through the water increase the contact with the kayak and improves stability and transfer power from the athlete to drive the kayak through the water. The current conventional training presents an opportunity to improve the agility and accuracy needed for addressing the subtleties of both kayaking performance and techniques. This led to the development of a comprehensive in-house system that can measure real-time parameters related to kayaking performance for a more accurate objective assessment and immediate feedback.