Single Meter System

Standard protocols for 1 meter system

1. Gait analysis: All parameters of the gait cycle can be recorded with a 30 second walk on the treadmill. Note “natural gait rhythm”: the speed where asymmetries of the gait cycle are maximally reduced.
2. Squat jump: Normally, five continuous jumps are executed. Maximum effort and pattern are noted. Angles can be drawn to ensure proper jump technique (e.g., the pelvic angle should open before the subject’s heels leave the ground).
3. Single Leg Jumps: Determining the power of each leg and differentials is essential to any training/rehabilitation program. By noting contact and flight times, “rhythm of power” (the symmetrical execution of eccentric/concentric movement) can be determined. The timed execution of each jump must be considered.
4. Agility: Simple left/right ski test is performed at various widths. Contact and flight times are noted. Rhythmic lateral movement is determined by noting differentials in contact and flight time for each leg.
5. March test: A simple march in place test can help determine the “rhythm of the body” (the body’s ability to move symmetrically on call). Again, contact and flight differentials are analyzed. All training and rehabilitation programs must be designed to make the “rhythm” as symmetrical as possible.
6. Reaction time: By responding to either a visual or auditory signal, reaction time can be recorded to one thousandth of a second. As we train our clients and head toward optimal performance, reaction time should improve. Any deviation from this could be an early sign of injury.