Clean Run Magazine - July 2009 - 43

• Video analysis software: Video software is an exciting new tool for the sport of agility. Intuitive instructors can use this tool to better identify and demonstrate what they are communicating to students during lessons. I have found that I can be twice as effective using the software to review each sequence as opposed to reviewing it based on what can be seen with the naked eye. Video software allows the breakdown of each individual sequence frame by frame. You are probably wondering how seeing your training sequence or trial run in a frame-by-frame format will make you a better handler. When you can see each individual motion, you can more accurately determine why a bar went down, why your dog turned wide, why your dog went off course, and so on. How many times have you walked off the course and said, “Why did that happen?” With video software, your movements and your dog’s movements are broken down into individual parts. An instructor with a good eye can use this information to tell you exactly why an error occurred. Another use of video software is overlay. I often overlay my runs with the runs of dogs of similar speed to see where I lost or gained time during a run. This information is priceless in deciding how I need to run the next course to create the most efficient path for my dogs. Dartfish is the premiere software in the athletic industry, and was used in last year’s coverage and analysis of the Olympic Games. I currently use the new Dartfish 5.0. The HD addition is incredible for review of lead changes and bar positions when looking at a dog’s path. The only downside to Dartfish is the price. It is a phenomenal tool for instructors, especially those who work with clients who don’t live close enough to come for lessons on a regular basis. Typical competitors may find it a bit pricey and prefer to work with an instructor who has the software, rather than purchase it themselves. MotionPro is a good alternative to Dartfish and is quite a bit less expensive. However, I’ve found it to be much more challenging to use. The operation of the software is less obvious and intuitive than Dartfish. This means that to get the full benefit of MotionPro’s features, you need to be somewhat of a computer geek. It also tends to be quite slow. • Record-keeping software: Note-taking software can be used for tracking progress in training, handling, Mental Management, and analysis. There are many different types of note-taking software. I have found the Notes application in Microsoft Outlook to be the best for quick notes and reminders. I just make a category for each type of note, such as training, handling, analysis, and so on. I then use these notes to pinpoint the areas I need to improve. • Word-processing software: This one is a no-brainer, but word-processing software can be used for creating training plans, tracking progress toward training and trialing goals, and reviewing processes and techniques. By keeping an electronic copy of your training plan you can ensure that your program is progressive and can be reviewed and refined. Get Started With Our 4-Jump Kit includes all necessary pipe, fittings and jump cups to build 4 jumps that adjust from 3" to 35" in height All the PVC You Need to Build It Yourself PatiosToGo.com Furniture Grade PVC Low Minimum Order · Box Quantity Discounts 352.243.3220 There are both low-tech and high-tech gadgets to improve your agility skills. July 09 | Clean Run 43

http://www.PatiosToGo.com

Clean Run Magazine - July 2009

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Clean Run Magazine - July 2009