Development of a New Force Platform for Athletic Performance Assessment Using Load Cells

Athletic movement, such as running, jumping, pushing, pulling, and walking, and the associated force parameters are typically measured using devices and systems equipped with strain gauges (load cells), accelerometers, or a combination of such sensors (force platforms). Force platforms are widely employed to assess parameters such as power, strength, acceleration, flight duration, contact time, eccentric and concentric phase duration, total time, reactive strength index, neuromuscular fatigue, and static balance, which are critical for both athletic performance evaluation and rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of a newly developed force platform constructed with four load cells placed between two metal plates. For validation, data from the new platform for force and balance were compared with reference weights (force) and distance from the center of the platform (balance). For reliability testing, the same protocol was repeated twice on different days (test-retest). The results showed no significant differences between the new and reference systems for force and balance measurements, with a strong correlation (ICC > 0.96) observed, confirming the validity of the developed platform. Repeated trials on the new platform revealed no significant differences across measurements, with a strong correlation (ICC > 0.98), and the coefficient of variation was low (CV% < 5), indicating high reliability.In conclusion, the load cell–based force platform demonstrated strong validity and reliability. This newly developed system can be considered a practical tool for assessing athletic performance and monitoring sports-related injuries.