The effect of task constraints on learning the forward salto

[[abstract]]Jang & Liu(2009) investigated how gymnasts of different levels modulate their movement while executing the forward tucked salto (FTS) from different tasks and found that experienced gymnasts could perform better movement patterns so as to execute the FTS successfully in different tasks. Therefore, the instructors should emphasize and observe the subtle points of fundamental skills from basic training for the learners. According to task constraints provide a dynamic framework of boundary conditions to the emerging movement coordination modes of action and to the resultant expressions of skill (Newell et. al., 1989).The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of task constraints on learning FTS for beginners. Methods：Recruiting 16 male PE related majors who volunteered to join the learning program of FTS for 8 weeks (3 times a week) and dividing into 2 groups. The arrangements for the first two weeks are the same, but experiment group was given task constraints - added training programs for the last 6 weeks. We held pretest after 2 weeks, and posttest and transfer test after 8 weeks, and recorded every trial of tests by 60 fps camera and evaluated the performances outcome by gymnastics judges. Moreover, a 200 fps high speed camera was used to capture the sagittal view of the tests, and kinematics parameters of the performances were digitized for data analysis with the KWON digitizing software. Results：All the participants had skills progressed after training, includes higher scores of performances, the faster speed of run up before take-off, better stability of landing(lower landing deductions), and cushion the landing impact earlier. However, skills of tucking was backsliding (minimum hip angles of aerial time were elevated).In transfer test, participants had better scores, landing stability, and landing skills (stretching bodies before landing, head orientation became strait at landing). The main effects of the task constraints training program for experiment group were found in the transfer abilities, such as better landing performance. Summary, we should manipulate the task constraints flexibly, consider the individual differences and the goal and the characteristics of the skill, and prolongate the duration of learning.