Open AccessA damaging punch: Assessment and application of a method to quantify punch performance
Author(s) -
Dunn Emily C.,
Humberstone Clare E.,
Iredale K. Fiona,
Blazevich Anthony J.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
translational sports medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2573-8488
DOI - 10.1002/tsm2.71
Subject(s) - punching , reliability (semiconductor) , simulation , impulse (physics) , concussion , mathematics , statistics , computer science , medicine , poison control , engineering , injury prevention , mechanical engineering , power (physics) , physics , environmental health , quantum mechanics
Measurement of punch performance in a reliable, quantitative manner is relevant to combat sport, military, and concussion research. A punching protocol (3MPT) was developed, based on performance demands of amateur boxing, and evaluated on a custom‐built punch integrator (PI). PI reliability and accuracy were assessed by calculating TE and CV for a range of known masses. A within‐subject, repeated‐measures design assessed the test‐retest reliability of 3MPT. Fifteen male boxers (17.5 ± 0.5 years; 177.5 ± 9.5 cm; 73.0 ± 14.0 kg) were familiarized and then completed two 3MPT trials 90 minutes apart on 2 days (total of four tests). Peak punch force (N), relative punch force (N/kg), impulse (N·s), and rate of force development calculated to various time points were compared using a linear mixed model. Smallest worthwhile change (SWC) was also computed. PI data were reliable and accurate (CV <0.1%). TE and SWC comparisons revealed that 3MPT can detect moderate and large changes in performance; however, within‐day reliability improved from day 1 (3.1%‐13.8%) to 2 (2.3%‐5.1%) indicating a possible learning effect. Likewise, differences between test one and two were greater on day 1 than 2. Numerous punch‐related variables can be accurately and reliably measured using the 3MPT but repeat‐trial familiarization is suggested to reduce between‐test variability.