Movement and skill analysis of supercross bicycle motocross

• Published in: Journal of strength and conditioning research Vol. 26; no. 6; p. 1688
• Main Authors: Cowell, John F, McGuigan, Michael R, Cronin, John B
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.06.2012
• Subjects: Athletes; Bicycling - physiology; Biomechanical Phenomena; Female; Humans; Male; Motor Skills - physiology; Movement - physiology; Task Performance and Analysis
• ISSN: 1064-8011; 1533-4287
• DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e318234eb22

The purpose of this study was to develop a greater understanding of Supercross bicycle motocross (BMX) via notational analysis. Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) categorized Elite riders (n = 26) were the subjects of the analysis; this event occurred during the UCI BMX World Championships. Video footage was captured and analyzed using Quicktime™ and VideoMotion© software. The movement patterns and time spent pedaling, jumping, and "pumping" were determined for each run. On average, the Elite Men took 39.62 ± 0.78 seconds to complete a track, using 30.45 ± 3.2 pedal strokes and spent 11.83 ± 1.11, 9.64 ± 1.79, and 17.05 ± 1.51 seconds pedaling, jumping, and "pumping," respectively. The Elite Women took 40.95 ± 0.91 seconds to complete a track, using 33.65 ± 5.06 pedal strokes and spent 14.40 ± 2.17, 6.28 ± 1.41, and 17.80 ± 1.83 seconds pedaling, jumping, and "coasting and pumping," respectively. The dominant movement patterns investigated for the start, takeoff, landing, and pumping were hip (∼30 times per lap) and knee extension (~30 per leg per lap) and horizontal shoulder abduction and adduction (20 times per lap). Future research is needed to identify the power and acceleration profiles of the sport, which would be paramount for determining the best practice in testing and preparing BMX athletes. Exercises that specifically target the extensors of the hips, knees, and ankles and the muscles responsible for horizontal shoulder abduction and adduction are recommended.