The features of perceptual processes during qualitative biomechanical analysis

Aim. The paper aims to identify the features of perceptual processes during qualitative biomechanical analysis. Materials and methods. The following methods were used: the study of literature on the psychology of perception and sports biomechanics; methods of experimental psychology; high-speed video recording; authors’ methods for assessing the perception of sports technique and eidos; mathematical and statistical analysis. Results. The study consisted of 3 sequential stages. The first stage of the study showed that experts' assessments did not correlate well; each expert had his individual opinion. The second stage made it possible to identify two main types of movement perception: 1) the first type is based on an analytical approach, when experts sought to decompose the movement into a set of angles to obtain as much numerical information as possible; 2) the second type is based on gestalt-perception, when experts concentrated on a holistic movement image, i. e. without dividing the movement into details. The gestalt type was more effective, accurate and quick. The third stage revealed a different level of movement perception and its correlation with special memory. The clearer and more accurate the movement was, the longer it stored in the memory of experts. Conclusion. Gestalt-perception, eidolon technique and special memory form a triad of perceptual processes during evaluation of sports movements. The effectiveness of qualitative biomechanical analysis depends on maturity of each triad component.