Body Sensor Networks for Monitoring Rowing Technique

This paper presents a prototype for monitoring the kinematics of the femur and lower back (sacrum and thoraco-lumbar junction) during rowing. Data is collected from inertial sensors attached to the rower and a simple yet relatively accurate method for determining the rotation of the lower back and femur in the sagittal plane is presented. We also present results from an initial validation experiment using an optical tracking system which demonstrate that it is possible to monitor rowers using the proposed sensors and identify some common poor rowing techniques. Due to their small size, wireless capability and lightweight characteristics, the proposed Body Sensor Network (BSN) system has the potential to be used during ergometer sessions and whilst training on the water.