2008, Volume 4
Analysis of Patterns of Response to Kuzushi in Eight Drections Based on Plantar Pressure and Reaction Movement
Akitoshi Sogabe1, Taketo Sasaki2, Michito Sakamoto3, Yoshihisa Ishikawa3, Mitsushi Hirokawa4, Hiroshi Kubota5, Shunsuke Yamasaki1
1Education & Research Center for Sport & Health Science, University of Konan, Konan, Kobe, Japan
2Faculty of Human Development and Culture Department of Physical Education, Fukushima University, Fukushima, Fukushima, Japan
3Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
4Faculty of Culture and Sport Policy, Toin University of Yokohama, Yokohama, Yokohama, Japan
5Mito Kiryo High School, Mito, Japan
Full text
Abstract
Background and Study Aim: The purpose of this study was to examine immediate changes in plantar pressure of the eight directions of Kuzushi for top-ranked judo players.
Material and Methods: Subjects were two male judo players who had experienced special training to advance their skills. Tori was then instructed to perform kuzushi very quickly in any of the 8 directions while the subject was instructed to respond against kuzushi. The maximum plantar pressure (MPP), the center of plantar pressure(COP) and the mean plantar pressure (m-PP) at the reaction time were analyzed. Movements were also simultaneously recorded using a video camera.
Results: Uke responds to a quick kuzushi attempt by either 1) tai-sabaki (repositioning of body movement) or 2) reflex (stepping reaction). Especially for kuzushi in the back direction, Subject A maintained balance by pulling the left foot back, and thus the COP (R4.4%, 55.6%) and the m-PP (left ball of the foot; 8.2±8.4 N/cm2 , right heel; 3.4±3.3 N/cm2 ) showed high values. Subject B maintained balance by pulling the right foot back, and the COP (R19.1%, 30.6%) and the m-PP (outside right heel; 7.4±6.2 N/cm2 , inside right heel; 8.2±7.6 N/cm2 ) showed high values.
Conclusions: The present study has revealed that uke responds to kuzushi by either tai-sabaki or reflex. We may be able to develop more effective ways of applying technique against different opponents by seeking effective kuzushi, tuskuri and kake techniques based on these findings.
Key words: balance-breaking, judo, kuzushi, plantar pressure, reaction