This study describes the biomechanics of the foot and ankle during the transitional
and steady state skating strides using kinematic, kinetic, and myoelectric measures. A
data set for five collegiate hockey players was completed (mean ± SD: age = 21.8 ± 1.9
years, height = 1.81 ± 0.05 m, mass = 83.3 ± 8.0 kg). Three acceleration strides and a
constant velocity stride were examined on ice. An electrogoniometer at the ankle was
used to measure angular displacement and velocity values. Myoelectric activation
patterns were measured at the vastus medialis, tibialis anterior, peroneus longus, and
medial gastrocnemius of the right lower limb. Kinetic pressure profiles were measured
using piezo resistive fabric sensors providing accurate pressure measurement within the
narrow confines of the skate boot-to-foot/ankle interface. Sixteen flexible piezo-resistive
sensors (1.2 cm x 1.8 cm x 0.2 cm thick) were taped to discrete anatomical surfaces of the
plantar, dorsal, medial and lateral surface of the foot, as well as to the posterior aspect of
heel and leg. Repeated measures ANOVAs and Tukey post hoc tests found few
significant differences among stride variables; however insights into the mechanics of ice
hockey skating at the foot and ankle are given.