Direct Measurement of Power on a Gravity Independent Flywheel-based Ergometer

Abstract

YoYo Technology™ commercializes a training instrument called YoYo Squat™, a gravity independent flywheel-based ergometer, that allows to train quadriceps and adductors as well as supporting trunk and core muscle groups unloading the shoulder and spine. This ergometer, however, is equipped only with an optical sensor (encoder) to measure the rotation of the flywheel thus making it almost impossible to determine the instantaneous power generated by the athlete as well as the force as a function of the number of repetitions. It was therefore decided to equip the YoYo Squat™ with miniaturized single axis load cells, a linear position transducer parallel to the strap and strain gauge force plates for both feet. This has allowed to assess not only the above mentioned quantities but also the point of application of the normal load on the two feet thus further improving the training output and the feedback to both the athlete and the trainee for improved performance and/or more focused training.