Examination of Lower Limb Ambidextrous Execution of the Snap Down Technique in Folk Style Wrestling

The purpose of this study was to examine the kinematic motions of the lower extremity in the snap down technique. Specifically, the study examined the kinematic differences between execution using the dominant and non-dominant side. Angular displacement, velocity and acceleration of the hip, knee and ankle joint was examined. It was hypothesized that a significant statistical difference would be observed in multiple variables between the dominant and non-dominant limb execution. Five male collegiate wrestlers were recruited for participation in the study. Inclusion into the study was on the basis that each participant was right side dominant and displayed proper foot placement when performing the technique. Each was instructed to perform a total of ten snaps, five using each side. A standard two-dimensional kinematic analysis was conducted using data obtained at the maximal point of head impact on the mat. The results showed a significant statistical difference only at ankle joint angular acceleration (p = 0.02), though these findings were not strong enough to conclude a true difference. This indicated that lower extremity ambidexterity was achieved by the college wrestlers in the study. Further studies and future research may be warranted to examine the kinematic differences of the technique on the basis of weight class and/or experience level