Analysis of the eggbeater kick used to maintain height in water polo

The purpose of this study was to investigate technique in the eggbeater kic k and to identify factors contributing to height that can be maintained. Th e kinematics of the lower limbs of 12 players ranging in ability from novic e to elite were quantified using three-dimensional videographic techniques. Mean height of the vertex of the head with respect to water level was used as the measure of performance. These heights ranged from 0.22 m to 0.42 m. The mean of the squared foot velocity (r =.85, p <.01), the percent contri bution of the vertical and anteroposterior components of foot velocity (r = -.72 and r =.72, respectively, p <.05) were strongly related to height. Th ere were also substantial contributions due to mediolateral motion by all p layers, but this was not statistically related to height. Pitch angles were generally small throughout the kick cycle. Elite players maximized the per iod of positive pitch by appropriate use of ankle dorsi-flexion and plantar -flexion and eversion and inversion. The foot orientations and flow directi ons of the elite players suggested that effective technique involved sculli ng actions to utilize lift forces.