How can you use video analysis to provide biomechanical feedback?

1 Choose the right equipment

To use video analysis effectively, you need to have a device that can capture and display high-quality video, such as a smartphone, tablet, or camera. You also need a tripod or a stable surface to place your device, so that the video is clear and steady. You should position your device at a suitable distance and angle from the movement you want to analyze, depending on the type and complexity of the movement. For example, if you want to analyze a squat, you might want to place your device at a 90-degree angle from the side, about 3 meters away from the performer.

2 Record the movement

Once you have set up your device, you need to record the movement you want to analyze. You should perform the movement at a normal or desired speed, and repeat it several times to get different samples. You should also wear clothing that allows you to see your body segments clearly, and avoid any distractions or interruptions. You can use a timer or a remote control to start and stop the recording, or ask someone to assist you.

3 Review the video

After recording the movement, you need to review the video and look for any biomechanical errors or inefficiencies. You can use different features of your device or software to enhance your analysis, such as slow motion, zoom, pause, or frame-by-frame. You should focus on the key aspects of the movement, such as the alignment, balance, coordination, timing, range of motion, and force production of your body segments. You should also compare your movement to a reference model, such as a video of an expert or a standard technique.

4 Provide feedback

The final step is to provide feedback based on your video analysis. Feedback is the information you give or receive to improve your movement. You can provide feedback for yourself or for your clients, depending on your role and goals. You should use clear, specific, and constructive language, and focus on the most relevant and actionable points. You should also use different types of feedback, such as verbal, visual, or tactile, to suit different learning styles and preferences. For example, you can use verbal feedback to explain what you did well or what you need to change, visual feedback to show the video or draw diagrams, or tactile feedback to guide the movement with physical cues.

5 Apply feedback

The last step is to apply the feedback you received from your video analysis. Applying feedback means making changes to your movement based on the information you got. You should practice the movement with the feedback in mind, and monitor your progress and performance. You should also record the movement again and repeat the video analysis process to see if you improved or if you need more feedback. You should continue this cycle until you achieve your desired outcome.

6 Benefits of video analysis

Using video analysis to provide biomechanical feedback can have many benefits for functional training. It can help you improve your movement quality, efficiency, and effectiveness, as well as your awareness, confidence, and motivation. It can also help you prevent or reduce the risk of injuries, pain, or dysfunction, by correcting faulty or harmful movement patterns. It can also help you enhance your learning and coaching skills, by allowing you to observe, assess, and communicate better.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?