Assessing the Gymaware RS Linear Position Transducer Reliability and Validity in Measuring Countermovement Jump Height

Abstract

This study evaluated the concurrent validity and intra-device reliability of a linear position transducer (LPT) for counter-movement jump (CMJ) height. Twenty-six subjects (22.21 ± 5.3 years) performed five CMJs using a force plate (Forcedecks) concurrently with the LPT to test validity. A statistically significant difference was found between the force plate and Gymaware units. Although there are differences between strength platforms and Gymaware units, there is no difference between the Gymaware units. Bland-Altman analysis for validity revealed that LPT overestimated jump height for CMJ in both units, Gymaware RS unit 1 and Gymaware RS unit 2. Gymaware RS equipment, like the force platform, provides reliable measurement data. The Forcedecks force platform, Gymaware RS unit 1, and Gymaware RS unit 2 provide data below 5% CV. The Gymaware RS overestimates jump height, but it is a reliable tool for tracking changes in jump height to measure performance improvement and monitor fatigue.