1. Introduction
2. What is the NordBord?
3. What are the origins of the NordBord?
4. What does the NordBord measure?
5. What tests can NordBord perform? 
6. How can NordBord support hamstring training?
7. What is a good strength score for common NordBord tests?
8. NordBord Normative Data Explained
9. How can practitioners get the NordBord?
10. Conclusion

VALD’s NordBord Hamstring Testing System has become the standard for field-based hamstring strength assessment, performance, injury risk management, and rehabilitation.

Recognised as the default choice for hamstring testing and training worldwide, the NordBord combines precision, portability, and powerful data analytics to support practitioners in assessing, tracking, and building hamstring strength.

Trusted by thousands of teams and organisations globally – including the National Football League (NFL), National Basketball League (NBA), Major League Baseball (MLB), and English Premier League (EPL) – NordBord’s evidence-based approach has made it an indispensable tool in high-performance sports, rehabilitation, and research. With millions of assessments conducted on the NordBord annually, it has become a critical component in managing hamstring injury risk, enhancing performance, and maximising athlete resilience.

What is the NordBord?

The NordBord is a hamstring testing system that provides precise assessments of strength and asymmetry. Its durable design and high-accuracy load cells make it a reliable tool for practitioners working in clinics, gyms, and performance centres.

With ergonomic knee pads for comfort and accurate positioning, the NordBord captures both eccentric and isometric hamstring strength in real time. This data helps practitioners identify asymmetries, track progress, and refine training or rehabilitation strategies with confidence.

The NordBord app provides real-time feedback during tests and supports custom protocols that can be tailored to each athlete’s needs. Integration with VALD Hub ensures that all data is centralised for long-term tracking, comparative analysis, and actionable insights. Whether for a single athlete or an entire team, NordBord delivers the tools practitioners need to enhance performance and reduce injury risks.

Below are the key technical specifications for the NordBord:

Features and Specifications
Weight	19 kg (42 lb)
Size	1,203 mm (47.3 in) L x 639 mm (25.1 in) W x 437 mm (17.2 in) H
Load Capacity	2,000 N / 200 kg / 440 lb
Sampling Rate	50 Hz (default) – 400 Hz
Battery Capacity	100 hours of active use
Wireless Communication	Bluetooth 5

For a detailed breakdown, you can access the full NordBord technical specifications here.

What are the origins of the NordBord?

The NordBord was invented by Dr Anthony Shield and Dr David Opar at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). The NordBord was developed for portable, accurate hamstring strength testing to enable research on the effects of eccentric strength and asymmetry in hamstring strain injury (HSI) risk.

They invented the NordBord to allow practitioners to test both legs independently and simultaneously to obtain accurate asymmetry measurements ‒ a key indicator of HSI risk – in the field.

Since its release, NordBord has become a cornerstone of modern hamstring strength testing, backed by dozens of peer-reviewed papers and trusted by practitioners worldwide to enhance performance, reduce injury risks, and aid recovery.

What does the NordBord measure?

The NordBord focuses on three key metrics:

• Force (N): Measured directly by NordBord’s load cell sensors, force represents the amount of effort exerted by the hamstrings during contraction. This data is captured in real time, giving practitioners immediate insights into muscle strength.

• Torque (Nm): Torque, or rotational force, is calculated as the product of force and length. For the NordBord, length refers to the distance between the knee joint centre and the NordBord ankle hooks. This distance is estimated using the knee position setting, enabling accurate torque measurement to assess rotational strength.

• Impulse (Ns): Impulse measures the total “work” performed by the hamstrings, calculated as the area under the force-time curve. This metric reflects the ability to sustain force over time. Impulse thresholds are applied to filter out unwanted contractions, ensuring only meaningful data is included in the results.

These metrics enable practitioners to analyse hamstring strength across various contraction types while also detecting any asymmetries. This provides a well-rounded profile of hamstring health and performance capacity, helping practitioners address strength deficits, mitigate injury risks, and optimise performance strategies.

What tests can NordBord perform?

The NordBord offers a range of test types designed to capture different aspects of hamstring strength and asymmetry:

These test types can be utilised at various stages of recovery or performance assessment, providing valuable insights for individualised training and rehabilitation strategies.

How can NordBord support hamstring training?

In addition to testing, NordBord is also a valuable tool for hamstring strength training, offering both isometric and eccentric Training Modes. The NordBord app enables practitioners to set up customised programmes by defining parameters such as contraction times, target zones, training thresholds, repetitions, and rest periods, which can be set in relation to previous test scores (e.g., a percentage of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC)).

This capability supports progressive overload and targeted training, helping athletes develop the strength needed to reduce injury risks and improve performance. Such individualised training programmes are particularly useful for athletes recovering from hamstring injuries or aiming to optimise performance in high-demand sports.

What is a good strength score for common NordBord tests?

As with all physical tests, the definition of a “good” strength score on NordBord varies wildly depending on an athlete’s age, gender, sport, and fitness level.

Practitioners can utilise NordBord’s Norms, both in-app and in VALD Hub, to benchmark individual results against population averages. These Norms enable the identification of strengths and weaknesses, the setting of realistic goals, and the tracking of progress over time.

VALD’s Norms are based on tens of millions of tests from millions of anonymised individuals, allowing practitioners to make evidence-based decisions and deliver tailored support for athletes at any stage of their training or rehabilitation.

NordBord Normative Data Explained

Beyond integrated Norms, VALD also offers a range of sport- and population-specific normative data reports embedded in VALD Hub to provide additional context to coaches and athletes.

VALD’s normative data reports are derived from large datasets across sports like track and field, soccer, and basketball. These reports offer practitioners valuable benchmarks to:

• Compare individual athlete performance against sport-specific norms.
• Identify asymmetries or deficits that may impact performance or increase injury risk.
• Track improvements over time and refine training programmes based on data-driven insights.

Examples of normative data reports:

By using these normative data reports as reference points for training and assessments, practitioners can ensure that programmes are both individualised and evidence-based, improving outcomes in both performance and rehabilitation.

How can practitioners get the NordBord?

VALD operates on a subscription-based pricing model that ensures continuous access to the latest innovations and unlimited support. This all-inclusive plan covers unlimited software updates, feature releases, and a comprehensive warranty for repairs and replacements at no extra cost.

Practitioners can subscribe to NordBord by reaching out to VALD’s team of Business Development Managers (BDMs) and Client Success Managers (CSMs), most of whom are performance or health practitioners themselves.

VALD’s team provides personalised support and expert guidance throughout your onboarding and implementation process, as well as ongoing learning and development. VALD’s team prides itself on respecting clients’ decisions and ensuring you derive maximum value from your NordBord.

Conclusion

VALD’s NordBord has become the gold standard for field-based hamstring strength testing and training. Its ability to measure key performance metrics, combined with isometric and eccentric training features, makes it the go-to tool for field-based hamstring performance assessment and injury management.

To learn more about NordBord, get in touch with VALD via email or follow us on social media: X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.

The post VALD NordBord: Hamstring Strength Testing appeared first on Science for Sport.

Contents 

1. What is DynaMo?
2. What makes the DynaMo range different than other HHDs?
3. What does DynaMo measure?
4. What DynaMo models are available and how do they differ?
5. What tests can DynaMo perform? 
6. How do practitioners ensure their DynaMo results are accurate?
7. What is a good strength score for common DynaMo tests?
8. How can practitioners get DynaMo?  
9. Conclusion  

What is DynaMo?

VALD’s DynaMo Handheld Strength & ROM system is a range of innovative, all-in-one devices that combine the functionalities of a handheld dynamometer (HHD) and an inclinometer, making them versatile tools in performance and healthcare settings. DynaMo’s technology delivers precise and consistent measurements of muscle strength and range of motion (ROM). This dual capability sets them apart from other handheld dynamometers (HHDs), which typically only measure muscle strength.

DynaMo’s modular attachments and user-friendly interface enhance the accuracy, efficiency and versatility of assessments for a range of populations, including athletes, people with injuries, youth and older populations.

What makes DynaMo different than other HHDs?

DynaMo’s modular design and advanced hardware go beyond typical HHD capabilities by combining force and inertial measurement into one system. DynaMo is capable of over 300 tests, which can be performed as handheld, fixed to a wall, bed or cable for additional reliability or even attached directly to a patient’s limb.

The software that powers DynaMo (the DynaMo apps for Android and iOS, plus VALD Hub) further distinguishes it from other devices. The DynaMo app logs results automatically, reducing the need for handwritten notes. The real-time strength and ROM visualisations provided by the DynaMo app further enhance the user experience, gamifying assessments and making them more interactive.

Most importantly, all DynaMo data is automatically synced to VALD Hub alongside other assessment information such as patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), exercise programs and results from other VALD systems, such as ForceDecks, NordBord, ForceFrame, SmartSpeed, and HumanTrak.

DynaMo’s cohesive system not only helps streamline practitioners’ workflow but also builds confidence in the data they collect, facilitating data-informed decision-making for profiling, monitoring, training, rehabilitation and more.

What does DynaMo measure?

DynaMo measures the physical force that muscles exert onto its load cell sensor and quantifies this force in newtons (N), kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb). This force is indicative of the muscle’s strength. DynaMo also measures joint ROM using a 9-axis inertial sensor (IMU), which provides detailed insights into linear and rotational movement.

This combination of strength and ROM measurement capabilities makes DynaMo a comprehensive yet affordable tool for assessing musculoskeletal function, making it ideal for practitioners looking for a versatile, accessible entry point into high-quality dynamometry.

In addition to force, DynaMo also assesses metrics such as:

• Time to Peak Force
• Rate of Force Development (RFD)
• Asymmetry

Understanding these metrics is crucial for practitioners and patients. By leveraging advanced algorithms and insights from other VALD technologies, such as ForceDecks, DynaMo is able to offer a detailed analysis of physical capabilities. This aids in identifying deficiencies, optimising performance, preventing injuries and facilitating effective training and rehabilitation.

What DynaMo models are available and how do they differ?

VALD offers three DynaMo models, each catering to different functional needs:

Product	Description	Application
DynaMo Lite	Designed for handheld tests, this model is ideal for practitioners who require simple, handheld strength measurement capabilities.	DynaMo Lite is a compression-only dynamometer and inclinometer. It fits in the palm of your hand or in a pocket and is even wearable via Velcro limb wraps. Its compact design makes it a practical choice for smaller clinics or individual practitioners needing basic yet reliable measurements.
DynaMo Plus	The most versatile DynaMo model, DynaMo Plus is a tension and compression dynamometer and inclinometer. It includes additional features such as an inbuilt OLED screen, NFC-enabled Smart Attachments, and a dedicated grip attachment.	DynaMo Plus can perform over 400 tests (~100 more tests than DynaMo Lite), making it suitable for larger clinics and facilities that require more detailed insights into their patients’ or athletes’ performance.
DynaMo Max	Featuring the highest capacity of the range, DynaMo Max is designed for the most demanding tests. Alongside inclinometry ROM assessments, it includes tension and compression Smart Attachments capable of a 1,000 kg load capacity and 1,200 Hz sampling rate.	DynaMo Max offers optional extras such as dedicated attachments for Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull (IMTP) along with a range of other attachments that widen its capabilities for performance and rehabilitation assessments.

Key specifications for each model are listed here:

Want to know more? Check out the full DynaMo specifications. 

What tests can DynaMo perform? 

DynaMo performs a wide variety of tests, making it an invaluable device for comprehensive evaluations. Here’s a breakdown of the testing capabilities for each model:

The DynaMo range not only provides comprehensive analyses of these test types but also offers the ability to create and save a battery of tests that can be performed in quick succession.

How do practitioners ensure their DynaMo results are accurate?

Inspired by the development of ForceFrame, VALD designed the DynaMo range to provide a versatile and reliable tool for strength and ROM testing.

While the shift from analog to digital models has improved reliability and user experience, many HHDs still face challenges due to human error. This is particularly true in compressive muscle testing, where assessors must apply equal and opposite forces to the testing limb, leading to variable results based on the strength of both the assessor and the patient.

The DynaMo range includes various attachments and testing modes to enhance measurement accuracy and reliability. DynaMo Lite features compression and fixed-point options, while DynaMo Plus and Max add tension testing to their capabilities. These features help practitioners minimise human error and ensure that the data collected is precise and consistent.

The DynaMo app also provides detailed test protocols for all three models, covering a wide range of body parts and test types to help practitioners achieve accurate and reliable results.

Explore the test protocols tailored for each DynaMo model:

To achieve the most accurate and consistent results with DynaMo, practitioners should follow these best practices during testing:

• Zero the device before each test: Ensure the DynaMo is zeroed in its testing position with no load applied to eliminate baseline measurement errors.
• Stabilise the device during testing: Keep the DynaMo as stable as possible to avoid movement or shaking that could affect readings.
• Maintain proper alignment: Ensure the DynaMo is perpendicular to the limb applying the load, as non-perpendicular forces may not be accurately registered.
• Use fixed-point testing when possible: Anchoring the device to a solid object reduces variability introduced by the assessor’s strength and stability.
• Follow in-app prompts and protocols: The DynaMo app provides real-time prompts and detailed protocols to guide practitioners through each step, ensuring tests are performed correctly and data is accurately captured.

What is a good strength score for common DynaMo tests?

A good strength score for common DynaMo tests can vary based on individual factors such as age, gender, sport and fitness level.

Practitioners can utilise DynaMo’s in-app Norms and integrated normative data in VALD Hub to benchmark and interpret results effectively. These Norms provide access to a comprehensive database of normative data, allowing practitioners to compare individual test scores against population averages.

This helps practitioners identify strengths and weaknesses, set realistic goals and track progress over time.

How can practitioners get DynaMo?

VALD operates on a subscription-based pricing model that ensures continuous access to the latest innovations and unlimited support. This all-inclusive plan covers unlimited software updates, feature releases and a comprehensive warranty for repairs and replacements at no extra cost.

Practitioners can purchase the DynaMo Lite, DynaMo Plus and DynaMo Max models online or by reaching out to the VALD team. You will be linked with a Business Development Manager (BDM) – most of whom are performance and/or health practitioners themselves – to provide a quote and answer any questions you may have.

VALD’s team provides personalised support and expert guidance throughout your onboarding and implementation process, as well as ongoing learning and development. The VALD team prides themselves on respecting clients’ decisions and ensuring you derive maximum value from your DynaMo. 

Conclusion

DynaMo has transformed handheld dynamometry, providing unmatched versatility. Its dual function as a dynamometer and inclinometer delivers comprehensive data for performance and health assessments.

Known for its advanced technology and user-friendly design, DynaMo supports data-informed decision-making for training, injury prehabilitation and rehabilitation, providing your team with detailed muscle strength and ROM assessments.

To learn more about the DynaMo range, get in touch with VALD via email or on social media – X, LinkedIn and Instagram.

The post VALD DynaMo: Handheld Dynamometers and Inclinometers  appeared first on Science for Sport.

Contents

1. Introduction
2. What are ForceDecks? 
3. What do ForceDecks measure? 
4. What range of tests can ForceDecks perform? 
5. How are ForceDecks metrics calculated?
6. Are ForceDecks validated?
7. How does ForceDecks’ reporting work?
8. Are there any other key features of the ForceDecks software?
9. Models and specifications
10. How can practitioners get ForceDecks?
11. How much do ForceDecks cost?
12. Wrapping Up

Introduction

Force plates are an essential tool in sports science and healthcare, providing invaluable insights into performance, injury risk management and rehabilitation.

Among the many options available to practitioners, VALD’s ForceDecks Dual Force Plate System is widely considered the world leader. Known for their precision, detailed data analysis and user-friendly interface, ForceDecks are trusted by thousands of teams and organisations worldwide, from the Premier League to the NFL, NBA to AFL, and more.

New to force plates and want to know more? VALD has published a free eBook to help professionals understand and incorporate them into their practice: the Practitioner’s Guide to Force Plates.

What are ForceDecks?

ForceDecks are dual force plates, combining advanced hardware and software in an easy-to-use system, designed to help practitioners collect and interpret objective measurements across various isometric, balance and dynamic tests.

Using precision load cell sensors, ForceDecks accurately capture forces exerted by an individual during a wide range of movements. The data is wirelessly transmitted to the ForceDecks app on iPhone or iPad and subsequently uploaded to VALD Hub, where it can be analysed and managed in a centralised platform.

This allows practitioners to measure neuromuscular performance from a wide range of dynamic and isometric tests, providing metrics for unilateral and bilateral limb performance and inter-limb asymmetries.

ForceDecks can be utilised in various aspects of patient or athlete care, including assessment, training, monitoring and rehabilitation, providing valuable insights for data-informed decision-making.

A look inside ForceDecks showing how each plate’s four load cell sensors are arranged to measure the force applied to the top of the plate.

What do ForceDecks measure?

At a fundamental level, ForceDecks – like all force plates – measure two simple inputs: force and time. From these inputs, a range of force derivates can be calculated, such as power, velocity, displacement, acceleration and impulse, providing a staggering range of outputs from a relatively simple raw data source (known as the force-time curve, shown below).

The three force traces displayed in the ForceDecks app represent left (blue), right (orange) and total (grey) force.

From the force data, ForceDecks automatically generates a range of force derivatives that would have previously needed to be calculated manually:

• The acceleration-time curve is derived using force = mass x acceleration
• The center of mass velocity is calculated by integrating acceleration over time
• The power-time curve is generated using power = force x velocity

Also, unlike many traditional force plates, ForceDecks is a dual plate system that captures detailed bilateral data, offering deeper insights into asymmetries and movement patterns.

ForceDecks can also pinpoint and track center of pressure (CoP) thanks to their ability to measure each sensor’s output individually.

ForceDecks read forces from each of their sensors independently – rather than simply summed into a global reading – allowing them to track CoP, which is critical for balance testing.

CoP metrics are calculated by analysing the point of application of the ground reaction force and assessing anterior-posterior and medial-lateral movement shifts in foot pressure. During balance tests, metrics such as total excursion, mean velocity and the area of the CoP ellipse are calculated.

Illustration of the CoP metrics calculated during balance testing.

Lower values generally indicate better postural control, while higher values can signal potential balance issues, which may be beneficial for injury prevention and performance optimisation.

What range of tests can ForceDecks perform?

ForceDecks are the most versatile commercially available force plates, capable of performing and automatically analysing over 30 different tests in four main categories:

Overview of key tests available with ForceDecks.

Each of these tests can be automatically and comprehensively analysed by ForceDecks thanks to the sophisticated software that powers them, providing insights into performance, fatigue, rehabilitation progress and balance.

ForceDecks’ Auto-Detect feature streamlines this process even further by automatically recognising and analysing movements without the need to pre-select the test type, enabling efficient and seamless testing sessions.

ForceDecks’ Auto-Detect feature in action, automatically detecting an IMTP followed by a CMJ (and subsequently, dynamic strength index) without requiring any user input.

How are ForceDecks metrics calculated?

ForceDecks uses hundreds of algorithms developed by leading biomechanists, sports scientists and researchers to convert raw data into actionable metrics.

ForceDecks automatically detects the start of movement and test type, enabling seamless identification and analysis of each repetition. By identifying key moments and phases of each movement, ForceDecks then calculates a multitude of metrics and displays them in real-time to the user. This means that users get comprehensive, actionable insights into performance, symmetry and movement quality that they can act upon immediately.

ForceDecks calculate hundreds of different metrics across dozens of tests, including:

• Peak Force
• Jump Height
• Asymmetry
• Rate of Force Development (RFD)
• Dynamic Strength Index (DSI)
• Reactive Strength Index (RSI)
   

Examples of common ForceDecks metrics, all calculated during the CMJ.

Are ForceDecks validated?

ForceDecks have been independently tested to ensure validity and reliability. An extensive validation study by Collings et al. (2023) demonstrated that ForceDecks provide precise and consistent measurements across various tests and conditions (1).

The study compared ForceDecks with gold-standard laboratory force plates and found less than 1% difference in over 200 metrics, with a mean bias of under 2.5N (and 0.1mm for CoP) across all analysed tests, showcasing their high measurement accuracy and reliability.

For more detailed insights and results from the validation study, check out a summary of the ForceDecks Validity and Reliability publication.

How does ForceDecks reporting work?

During testing, the ForceDecks app displays real-time force data, including time series graphs and force traces. Key metrics such as jump height, peak power, asymmetry and more are also displayed immediately after each rep, creating a powerful biofeedback loop.

Practitioners can customise these in-test results to show the metrics that matter most to them and their athletes.

ForceDecks app displaying instant, rep-by-rep results. 

After testing, the data is uploaded and saved in VALD Hub, the centralised platform that integrates all VALD systems and data. With a single sign-on (SSO) system, VALD Hub enables users to visualise, manage and analyse all their performance data all in one place.

An example of an athlete profile overview in VALD Hub.

From detailed individual athlete profiles to group monitoring dashboards, metric-specific reports and raw data, VALD Hub provides practitioners with a range of data visualisation options to suit their needs.

VALD Hub’s customisable group monitoring and benchmarking dashboards show a team’s status and/or performance at a glance.

A unique feature of VALD Hub is its ability to add valuable context to this data using integrated Norms. Norms provide robust reference points based on millions of data points, enhancing the understanding of an athlete’s or patient’s performance.

Norms are available for almost all ForceDecks tests, metrics, age groups and genders and are conveniently overlaid on individual profiles. This allows users to track progress over time, compare an individual’s results with relevant peers and confidently answer a commonly asked question from athletes: “Was that result good?”

ForceDecks Norms (normative data) integrated into VALD Hub.

Are there any other key features of the ForceDecks software?

One of the standout features of ForceDecks software is ForceDecks Vision.

This proprietary feature of ForceDecks allows users to record video and force plate data simultaneously, which is automatically time-synced and annotated with key landmarks, providing real-time feedback to athletes and making it easy for them to understand key phases of their movements.

ForceDecks Vision in action – real-time video and force plate data automatically time-synced and annotated.

Models and Specifications

ForceDecks are available in three models, suited for different needs. All ForceDecks models feature industry-standard 1,000 Hz sampling rates, wireless connectivity and use the same powerful, intuitive ForceDecks app.

Not sure which is right for you? Check out VALD’s Buyer’s Guide to Force Plates.

Key specifications for each model are listed here:

Want to know more? Check out the full ForceDecks specifications.

How can practitioners get ForceDecks?

Practitioners can subscribe to ForceDecks by getting in touch with the VALD team. You will be linked with a Business Development Manager (BDM) – most of whom are performance and/or health practitioners themselves – to provide a quote and answer any questions you may have.

VALD’s team provides personalised support and expert guidance throughout your onboarding and implementation process, as well as ongoing learning and development. The VALD team prides themselves on respecting clients’ decisions and ensuring you derive maximum value from your ForceDecks.

How much do ForceDecks cost?

VALD operates on a subscription-based pricing model that ensures continuous access to innovations, comprehensive support and all-inclusive pricing with no hidden costs. This model includes unlimited software updates, feature releases and a comprehensive warranty covering repairs at no additional cost.

To explore all the details and benefits of our pricing model, read more here.

Conclusion

ForceDecks are a world-leading, field-based force plate technology trusted by thousands of performance organisations globally, including the Premier League, NFL, NBA and more. ForceDecks provide unparalleled precision, detailed data analysis and ease of use.

ForceDecks help enhance practitioners’ understanding and application of biomechanics and performance, regardless of the setting. Backed by VALD’s global team of experienced professionals, practitioners are supported to make data-informed decisions for training, injury risk management and rehabilitation.

To learn more about ForceDecks, get in touch with VALD via email or on social media: X, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

The post ForceDecks: A Dual Force Plate System by VALD appeared first on Science for Sport.