INTRODUCTION

In our study, we attempt to answer the question "Is there a biomechanical difference between throwing a dart with an individual's dominant versus non-dominant arm?" Comparing arm dominance in a skill such as dart throwing may offer insight into other activities that require precision with both left and right arms. A study of this sort would be of particular importance to individuals that have lost control or suffered an injury of their dominant limb. Studies have shown that hand dominance has an influential effect on the static and dynamic motion of the glenohumeral joint (Bonci et al., 1986). An important factor to consider in our study is the effect of training on performance. Bilateral training and not hemispheric dominance has been shown to be the decisive factor in producing the improved efficiency of the throwing motion (Jung and Dietz, 1976). Therefore, a subject with minimal experience throwing darts was chosen.

The purpose of our study is to examine the motion of the dominant vs. non-dominant arm during dart throwing. This will involve the videotaped analysis of a college-aged individual using both left and right arms to throw a dart. We expect to see a noticeable difference in the position and velocity of each arm throughout the entire motion. Although the focus of our analysis will not be on the end position of the dart, we anticipate greater accuracy and control by the dominant arm.