Changes in the Fluidity of Coordination with Curling Experience

Abstract

This study examined the effects of experience in the sport of curling by comparing different movement tasks of curlers of varying levels of experience. We predicted that curlers with more experience would demonstrate greater amounts of flexibility in their movements, which is consistent with past studies on movement and experience (Bernstein, 1967, Vereijken, van Emmerik, Whiting, & Newell, 1992). Curlers from the Duluth Curling Club were tested on both hit and draw shots while turning their wrists in either a clockwise or counterclockwise movement. Their movement was recorded using an Optotrak Certus device which uses infrared sensors to pick up on slight differences in movement. We found that participants with more experience showed greater amounts of flexibility while performing the motion tasks. Results from this study can be used by curlers trying to make improvements to their game. Further research can be conducted to improve upon our findings.