Kyley H. Dickson, John C. Sorochan, Rhys Fielder, Jackie Guevara, Taylor Williams, Ryan C Bearss, John N Roger, Michigan State University
Abstract
In synthetic turf systems shock attenuation systems are commonly used to reduce surface hardness of and improve consistency athletic fields. Currently, shock attenuation systems are not utilized in natural grass athletic field. The potential use in natural grass system of these shock attenuation systems has not been investigated. The objective of this study is to determine the impact of shock attenuation systems in combination with Kentucky bluegrass sod on player to surface interaction. The study was conducted at the University of Tennessee Center for Athletic field safety in Knoxville, TN in the spring of 2022. The study looked at four different shock attenuation systems: concrete (control), Brock SPX14 shockpad, Permavoid, and Brockpad SPX14 shockpad with Permavoid. All testing was completed over a concrete floor in an enclosed building. The fLEX testing device was used to collect 54 samples per system, simulating a 76 kg athlete with a size 10 male shoe. A randomized complete block design was utilized. The results showed Brock SPX14 shockpad significantly impacted horizontal traction and peak vertical forces. While the Permavoid system displayed the most consistent results in horizontal traction and vertical force across the surface.
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