Video analysis is one of the most impactful tools for coaches, enabling them to assess athletes in action with greater depth and precision. While recording footage alone is beneficial, video analysis apps elevate this approach, providing advanced features for a thorough breakdown of performance. Whether you’re already using an app or considering one, these tools offer a range of capabilities to deepen your analysis. Many apps today include affordable pricing, drawing tools, scrubbing wheels for detailed playback, and split screens for side-by-side comparisons. Where they differ most is in the range of additional features, overall quality, and user-friendliness.
Real-time observation can miss critical details, making video analysis invaluable. Through video, athletes can visually identify areas needing improvement and take an active role in their learning process, leading to better outcomes than coach corrections alone. Recording at high frame rates, like 240 fps, further enhances clarity by revealing details that standard speeds (such as 30 fps) may overlook.
Key Features of Modern Video Analysis Apps:
- Recording capabilities using smartphones or tablets
- Ability to import videos from external cameras or platforms like YouTube
- Drawing and annotation tools (lines, arrows, circles, colors, text, and angle measurements)
- Advanced tools like timers, dotted lines, and custom curves
- Video scrubbing wheels or timelines for fine-tuned playback control
- Split-screen comparisons with synchronization for side-by-side video analysis
- Audio recording for voiceover feedback
Effective Use of Split Screens
Split-screen analysis is ideal for viewing two videos simultaneously. To maximize accuracy, try to record videos at matching speeds, although variations can be managed with manual adjustments. Split screens can be used in multiple ways:
- Before and After Comparison: Record an athlete’s form at the start and then partway through a session to observe any improvements. This can be done either during the lesson for quick insights or afterward for more detailed review.
- Multiple Angles: Capturing different angles provides a comprehensive view of techniques. For instance, film a serve from behind and from the side, or a groundstroke from the side and near the net. Two tripods and the use of the athlete’s smartphone make dual-angle recording more manageable.
- Consistent Recording: Make it a habit to record athletes every few months (3-6 months) to track long-term progress. Reviewing videos from 9-12 months back, for example, reveals development that may not be visible in short-term comparisons.
With regular video analysis, athletes can visually monitor their growth, fine-tune their techniques, and pursue targeted improvements more effectively.