CORRELATIONS BETWEEN TRUNK AND BAT KINEMATICS FOR BASEBALL PLAYERS CALCULATED USING BOTH INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP STATISTICS

This study aimed to investigate kinematic parameters associated with high batting velocity by using both group and individual analysis methods. Twenty seven junior baseball players each performed 35 strikes off a tee at speeds of 60, 80 and 100% of maximum; with pelvis, upper-trunk and bat kinematics measured by 3D motion analysis. The maximum values of all kinematic variables were positively associated with bat speed when assessed with both group and individual methods. For variables measured at impact, however, there were very different individual associations; with some participants showing strong positive correlations and others having similarly strong negative correlations with bat speed. These findings indicate that different players use different techniques to achieve high bat speeds