Advancing the measurement of motion in sport using markerless motion capture technology

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Sport scientists frequently analyze the movement patterns of players when they complete sport specific tasks, such as skating in ice hockey players. Groups of players are compared (e.g. novice vs. elite), allowing scientists to determine optimal movement patterns and between group differences. This information can be used by coaches in designing training programs and by industry to design equipment. Sports scientists currently use a technology where numerous, small reflective spheres, called markers, are placed on the player. Special cameras measure the position of these markers and scientists then construct a 3D image of the players as they move. This technology has limitations, including it is costly, errors arise when the markers are not placed correctly on players, and it is time consuming to collect and process this data. A new technology has emerged which does not require reflective markers, called markerless motion capture. It uses a type of deep learning, where the computer is trained on previous images of humans moving. The software uses this information and images from video cameras to identify a player's body position when they are completing a sport task. These next-generation markerless systems can produce accurate data, while having the added benefit of decreasing data collection and processing times, they require less expertise to operate, and they have lower costs. Markerless motion capture has been used to measure walking but its use in sports will be novel. This technology will support the research programs of three researchers, including studies examining, 1) quick directional changes while running in response to obstacles in soccer players, 2) skating and shooting in male and female ice hockey players, and 3) running on different outdoor surfaces. Other researchers and sports teams will have access to it through collaborations, and students will have the opportunity to train with this technology. The markerless motion capture system is a significant upgrade from our current equipment. Since markerless motion capture is more efficient, we can expand our research programs and improve productivity by increasing the number of players enrolled and by allowing us to complete more studies. This efficiency, along with its increased portability, is important when we collaborate with sports teams to complete on-field testing. This technology we will allow us to train more students since it saves time and requires less expertise. These students will become experts with this leading edge technology, which will make them employable within industry and academia. Markerless motion capture is an emerging field that will transform sports science. Our studies will substantially advance research evaluating motion in sport. The findings can be used by coaches to design training programs, therapists to design injury prevention programs, and industry to improve equipment design. This will help maximize the performance of Canadian athletes.