Abstract
Prior to improving the strength/power qualities associated with a movement, strength and conditioning coaches need to first understand the mechanics of the movement via some sort of movement analysis. The purpose of this study was to determine the key technical features associated with a 180° aerial change of direction (aCOD) performance. The aCOD task involved catching a suspended ball while turning 180° in the air and was recorded using high-speed video. Thirty seven netball players (5 elite, 32 sub-elite) were grouped into three categories (Superior, Average and Below Average) based on the effectiveness of their landing (a complete 180° rotation with a two-foot landing). Seven key technical features were consistently observed in the superior aCOD performances: 1) sinking into a deep hip and knee flexion (∼135°) through the final ground contact in the approach; 2) rotating about the takeoff leg prior to leaving the ground; 3) driving both arms up towards the ball, no more than shoulder width apart; 4) driving the free leg up towards the ball at takeoff; 5) following possession of the ball, rapidly rotating the head into the new direction; 6) holding the ball close to the body at chest height once possession had been made in preparation for a quick release pass; and, 7) rapid rotation of the lower body throughout the airborne phase to elicit a full 180° turn. This type of analysis provides focus for programming of the appropriate musculature and technical cues for coaching the movement of interest.