Análise Eletromiográfica e Cinemática de Exercícios Classificados como Elementos de Força em Campeonatos de Pole Sports

Abstract

Pole Sports is a sports discipline derived from Pole Dance, internationally regulated by the International Pole Sports Federation (IPSF). Competitions in this modality require athletes to perform strength elements classified into different levels of difficulty. However, the lack of technical-scientific studies may compromise the accuracy of these classifications, affecting athletes' performance and scoring. This study aimed to biomechanically analyze, using surface electromyography (EMG) and kinematics, four exercises classified as strength elements with a technical value of +0.5 in the IPSF Code of Points (2021-2024): Butterfly Reverse Extension (S42), Flag Grip Side Passé (S43), Hiphold Half Split (S46), and Superpassé (S47). The sample consisted of 15 advanced-level Pole Dance practitioners. EMG signals were collected from seven target muscles: biceps brachii (BB), triceps brachii (TB), rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique (OE), erector spinae (EE), rectus femoris (RF), and semitendinosus (ST). Additionally, kinematic variables and the Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) were recorded. The findings indicate that exercises classified within the same technical value may demand distinct neuromuscular activation, particularly in core and upper limb muscles. Kinematic analyses revealed differences in body support distribution on the pole, which may affect the biomechanical demands of the movements. It is concluded that the four analyzed exercises are not equivalent in terms of neuromuscular activation levels and kinematic demands, suggesting that the S43 element should be reclassified into a higher technical value group. Finally, this study confirms the hypothesis that the current Code of Points for Pole Sports Championships requires technical-scientific refinements to strengthen its future versions.