Arm action in hurdle clearance in groups of different ages and sport skills

One of the key factors for improving hurdle performance is the development of advanced athletic technique, analysis of which is vital in monitoring the training process. The current discussion on hurdling technique, however, seems to overlook the aspect of the movements of the upper limbs in hurdle races. The aim of this study was the qualitative assessment of the upper limb movement in the hurdle step. This study involved three research groups: children, physical education students and hurdle race runners. A questionnaire designed by the authors was used to qualitatively evaluate the technique of clearing the third hurdle (obstacle), taking into account three moments in clearing the hurdle, i.e. the take-off, the over-the-hurdle position and landing. A video footage was captured using three synchronized cameras which recorded a 1920x1080 resolution video at 50 Hz. The results showed statistically significant differences for most of the variables considered. Among all three groups tested, significant differences were noted for flexion at the elbow joint and for movement at the shoulder joint.