Asymmetrical Force Sensor for Rowing Biomechanics

Force plate system capable of gathering biomechanical data from rowers’ lower extremities, thus compiling proper biofeedback to display for coaches and athletes alike.

Design Award

Design Excellence Award Winner

Project Overview

Elite rowers that engage in a high volume of training can suffer from a variety of injuries, the most common occurring in the lumbar spine. As rowing is a full-body movement, perfecting technique and maintaining proper form is essential to preventing such injuries and improving performance overall. The team’s goal is to create a wireless sensor system in the rowboat for the UW-Madison Women’s Rowing Team to measure real-time biokinetic data. The device will capture load distribution during time of use and will assess lower extremity asymmetry to establish risk stratification. Additionally, the team aims to translate the force plate system into a user-friendly interface that will enable coaches and athletes to understand essential biofeedback information, thereby improving both athletes' performance and safeguarding against injuries.