Simple Assessment of Height and Length of Flight in Complex Gymnastic Skills: Validity and Reliability of a Two-Dimensional Video Analysis Method

In artistic gymnastics, the possibility of using 2D video analysis to measure the peak height (h(peak)) and length of flight (L) during routine training in order to monitor the execution and development of difficult elements is intriguing. However, the validity and reliability of such measurements remain unclear. Therefore, in this study, the h(peak) and L of 38 vaults, performed by top-level gymnasts, were assessed by 2D and 3D analysis in order to evaluate criterion validity and both intrarater and interrater reliability of the 2D method. Validity calculations showed higher accuracy for h(peak) (+/- 95% LoA: +/- 3.6% of average peak height) than for L (+/- 95% LoA: +/- 7.6% of average length). Minor random errors, but no systematic errors, were observed in the examination of intrarater reliability (h(peak): CV% = 0.44%, p = 0.81; L: CV% = 0.87%, p = 0.14) and interrater reliability (h(peak): CV% = 0.51%, p = 0.55; L: CV% = 0.72%, p = 0.44). In conclusion, the validity and reliability of the 2D method are deemed sufficient (particularly for h(peak), but with some limitations for L) to justify its use in routine training of the vault. Due to its simplicity and low cost, this method could be an attractive monitoring tool for gymnastics coaches.