Asian Journal of Contemporary Education

ISSN(e): 2617-1252
DOI: 10.18488/journal.137.2020.42.91.98
Vol. 4, No. 2, 91-98.
© 2020 AESS Publications. All Rights Reserved.
URL: www.aessweb.com

ENHANCED EDUCATIONAL MOBILE AUGMENTED REALITY

APPLICATION FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM AND WARM-UP
EXERCISES

Mehmet Imamoglu Sinop University, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Department of Sport

Management, Sinop, Turkey.

ABSTRACT
Article History The purpose of this study is to examine the use of augmented reality technology in the
Received: 14 October 2020 field of sports science and to develop a sample educational software including
Revised: 5 November 2020
Accepted: 24 November 2020 musculoskeletal system and warm-up exercises. Each stage of the software
Published: 10 December 2020 development process is explained in detail. The basis of augmented reality technology
is the simultaneous visualization of real and virtual objects through an interface system.
Keywords The instant information obtained by using various methods from the real world is
Education
Health presented in interaction with virtual objects. Virtual objects are developed with three-
Sports science dimensional modelling software. Code libraries are used for applications that will be
Technology
Futurology. created for products such as mobile phones, tablets, and computers. The compiler
software makes applications available for use. In this study, Daz3d and Blender
software were used for three-dimensional modelling. The Vuforia system has been
preferred as an augmented reality code library. The Unity software was used in the
development and compilation of the application. It will be beneficial to use the
developed mobile augmented reality application in sports and health education.
Augmented reality technology can be used in many different areas in sports science.

Contribution/ Originality: This study is one of the few studies in which an educational mobile application has
been developed using augmented reality technology in the field of sports and health sciences. Each stage of the
software development process has been explained in detail and contributed to the literature.

1. INTRODUCTION
Individuals in all age groups need to do sports to lead a healthy life. Individuals who do not have sufficient time
for regular walks during the day are directed to high-impact performance sports. Warm-up exercises should be
included before professional or amateur sports. Warm-up exercises increase the body temperature and flexibility of
the athletes and also prevent injuries. Athletes should be informed about warm-up exercises. Training should be
given to all age groups about muscles affected by warming exercises and the skeletal-muscular system involved in
the formation of movements.
It is thought that the use of technology will contribute to learning processes while giving training on the
skeletal-muscular system and warm-up exercises. The use of technology in education prioritizes individual learning,
allowing the student to learn at their own pace and in a way that they can understand. With the acquisition of
information from the primary source and using over and over again provide diversity and opportunity equality. In

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 Asian Journal of Contemporary Education, 2020, 4(2): 91-98

this way, the quality of education is improved. Although we live in a three-dimensional world, generally preferable
to two-dimensional materials in educational processes for reasons such as suitability, flexibility, mobility and
economic (Kesim & Ozarslan, 2012). To eliminate these reasons and avoid restrictions on two-dimensional
environments, the use of technology must be increased. Technology encourages students to use their imagination
and creativity (Klopfer & Yoon, 2005). It eliminates differences in learning speeds and styles. The number of
various technologies used in education systems such as augmented and virtual reality is increasing day by day.
Augmented reality technology is applied in medicine, marketing, museums, fashion and many other fields with
the ability to combine reality and digital information (Berryman, 2012). The review study in 2003 and 2013 shows
that augmented reality technology is a promising technology to improve student learning performance and
motivate students to learn through the interaction and graphic content used (Bacca, Baldiris, Fabregat, Graf, &
Kinshuk, 2014). As a result of examining 58 articles published between 2006 and 2016, it has been determined that
augmented reality applications are used to increase academic success, improve learning performance, increase
learning motivation, diversify perceptions, increase satisfaction in learning processes, and enrich learning
environments in terms of learner-interface (Altinpulluk, 2019). The review states that the majority of studies 74%
use Three-Dimensional (3D) for many tasks in anatomy education and shows that student perceptions are positive
towards technology (Hackett & Proctor, 2016). ARBOOK software developed with the support of augmented
reality technology for anatomy education seems to increase the success and motivation of students, help
autonomous study, and therefore it is suitable for anatomy education (Ferrer-Torregrosa, Torralba, Jimenez,
García, & Barcia, 2015). It has been determined that the lessons presented in special stereoscopic and photo-realistic
views using augmented reality technology make it easier for students to recognize, memorize and understand the
concepts of Biology (Weng, Bee, Yew, & Hsia, 2016). In the study evaluating the ARTutor platform supported by
augmented reality technology, students stated that they generally feel comfortable using the software, they are
satisfied with the software in terms of efficiency and they will recommend the software to their colleagues (Lytridis
& Tsinakos, 2018). As a result of the implementation of the virtual reality technology supported training program
for 4 weeks, it has been determined that it positively affects the body composition and health (Lee & Kim, 2018). It
was determined that the exercises performed with the developed three-dimensional interactive augmented reality
system had a positive effect on balance and mobility in the elderly (Im et al., 2015).
Augmented reality technology is defined as a technology that combines real-world and virtual images and
provides simultaneous interaction between real and virtual objects (Azuma, 1997). In virtual reality technology, real
or imaginary environments are animated in a digital environment with three-dimensional models. Augmented and
virtual reality is two different technologies. Augmented reality experiences take place in the real world where
virtual objects are shown interactively. Virtual reality experiences take place in a virtual environment through
sensor and visualizer systems.
Augmented reality systems are grouped under two categories according to the technological infrastructure
they use: location-based and marker-based (Cheng & Tsai, 2012). Global Positioning System (GPS) data is used in
location-based augmented reality applications. Interaction with augmented reality is ensured by using coordinate
information of target points. Pointer images are used for interaction in marker-based augmented reality
applications.
There are augmented reality applications developed for various technological devices such as mobile phones,
tablets or computers. Applications show virtual objects on their screens, such as pre-made three-dimensional
models, by identifying markers through the device's cameras. Various software is used in the process of preparing
virtual objects. Daz3d is available for creating 3D human models and animations, Blender for 3D models, and a
variety of recording and editing software for videos. Objects created in a virtual environment are included in
applications through a compiler software using augmented reality code libraries. In this study, applications for the

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 Asian Journal of Contemporary Education, 2020, 4(2): 91-98

use of augmented reality technology in sports sciences were examined and a sample training software was
developed including the musculoskeletal system and warm-up exercises.

2. METHOD
In the process of mobile augmented reality application development, many alternative methods and software
are preferred. In this research, the mobile augmented reality application development process consists of the steps
of creating virtual objects, uploading marker images into the augmented reality web system then downloading the
code library and finally compiling them through the application development software. Each stage of the software
development process is explained in detail.

2.1. Mobile Augmented Reality Application Development Process

The human model and animation used in warm-up exercises were created with Daz3d software. Daz3d is a
three-dimensional human modeling software that supports Windows and MacOS operating systems. Ready-made
human figures and many accessories are available for the users to edit. The created human models have joints such
as shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee. Using these joints, it is possible to obtain realistic movements in a three-
dimensional plane. It is freeware software (Get Daz Studio & Hexagon, 2019). Figure 1 shows the Daz3d software
interface and the developed human model.

Figure-1. Daz3d software interface and human model.

Three-dimensional images of the musculoskeletal system are created with Blender software. Blender software
allows designers to create three-dimensional models. Windows, MacOS and Linux operating systems are
supported. It is open-source and freeware software (Foundation, 2019). Figure 2 shows the Blender software
interface and an example of the developed three-dimensional musculoskeletal system.

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© 2020 AESS Publications. All Rights Reserved.
 Asian Journal of Contemporary Education, 2020, 4(2): 91-98

Figure-2. Blender software interface and three-dimensional musculoskeletal system model.

The augmented reality application scans objects in the environment through the camera. When the application
detects the pointer object, it shows the virtual content that is available in the system. Markers can be created with
image and photo editing software. Designed pointers are recorded in the database of the system, which provides the
augmented reality code library.
Vuforia system was used as an augmented reality code library (PTC, 2019). It is possible to create a database by
uploading pointers in a freeway, with restricted usage. The prepared database, code library and license key are
provided for use in the application development process. Figure 3 shows a sample marker image and identification
points in the system.

Figure-3. Sample marker image and identification points in the system.

The augmented reality application was developed and compiled with Unity Editor. The Unity editor supports
many platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux and Android (Unity Technologies, 2019). The compilation result
is a mobile app file with .apk extension, developed in accordance with Android platforms. Suitable for use via Tablet
or phone. Figure 4 shows the Unity software interface in which the application is developed.

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 Asian Journal of Contemporary Education, 2020, 4(2): 91-98

Figure-4. Unity software interface.

3. RESULTS
As a result of the study, the mobile application developed with the support of augmented reality technology
contains two different sample models designed in three dimensions. The model, which is related to the
musculoskeletal system, allows the examination of muscle and bone structures in 3D. The model, which is related to
warm-up exercise, is designed as a 3D animation and allows movement to be examined. Students using the
application will have the opportunity to analyze in more detail by enlarging both sample models. Since the designs
are 3D, students will be able to examine the models from any angle they want. In the warm-up exercise model, they
will be able to follow every stage of the movement.
In the developed mobile application, the focus is on application development processes and approaches.
Developers and educators who are familiar with application development processes will be able to develop similar
applications in line with their needs. The mobile application has been developed on the android platform and has not
been installed in the store, so restricting access to the application is an important limitation. It will be beneficial for
researchers to develop applications that will support mobile operating systems other than android and make them
available in various application stores. Including students' views in application development processes will increase
usability. It would be positive for researchers to develop similar projects with open source and in a way that
everyone can contribute.

4. DISCUSSION, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

It is thought that it is useful to have augmented reality applications in sports science education. An educational
augmented reality application provides a detailed analysis opportunity with a three-dimensional representation of
movements or objects without a time limit. Augmented reality technology attracts students interest and attention.
It helps to learn by providing the appearance of objects from different angles in the three-dimensional environment
of subjects that are difficult to understand (Hsiao & Rashvand, 2011; Kerawalla, Luckin, Seljeflot, & Woolard, 2006).
According to the demands of education, it will be very critical for physical educators who provide online education
to consider the use of technology to improve student learning in virtual environments (Goad, Towner, Jones, &
Bulger, 2019). Mobile augmented reality applications support many technological features, so they can be used in a
variety of educational processes from material development to orientation activities (Demirer & Erbaş, 2015).

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 Asian Journal of Contemporary Education, 2020, 4(2): 91-98

Augmented reality applications help create a three-dimensional form of objects that are difficult to achieve or
inaccessible in the real world (Finkelstein, Perkins, Adams, Kohl, & Podolefsky, 2005; Shelton & Hedley, 2002;
Yuen, Yaoyuneyong, & Johnson, 2011). The use of skeletal and muscular models developed in a three-dimensional
environment provides review opportunities that students cannot achieve in the real environment. Models used in
anatomy education do not fully support individual learning. There are disadvantages, such as a limited number of
the models and usually not accessible outside of the academic hours. Models offered with augmented reality
applications eliminate these limitations. It is possible to examine the structures and working principles of muscles
and bones with augmented reality applications using three-dimensional virtual models. Augmented reality
applications are considered to be effective, highly interactive learning materials that contribute to the learning
process, are easy to use and provide user satisfaction (Taskiran, 2018).
Augmented reality applications positively affect the participation of disabled people in educational games (Bai,
Blackwell, & Coulouris, 2013; Zarzuela, Pernas, Martínez, Ortega, & Rodríguez, 2013). Augmented reality
applications for many groups of disabilities should be developed as in the case of an application where letters are
defined as pointers and translated into sound by the software. In preschool education, it is seen that augmented
reality practices have attracted children's interests and motivations in teaching letters, numbers and other
fundamental concepts (Rambli, Matcha, & Sulaiman, 2013; Tomi & Rambli, 2013; Yilmaz, 2016). Augmented reality
applications for fundamental movement skills, which have an important place in preschool education, should be
developed. Children should be ensured by examining each movement and skill in a three-dimensional environment
through the application.
The concepts of recreation and tourism are defined as the whole of the activities that people have performed to
find peace. Visits of museums have an important place among these activities. Historical events should be assessed
according to the time they occur. In this respect, the display of period properties is important in historical
examinations for education and tourism purposes. Presenting events and venues in a real atmosphere adds an
objective perspective to the assessments. With augmented reality technology, it is possible to accomplish them. The
use of augmented reality applications in historical and touristic places is important for the visitors to feel into the
historical process and to demonstrate how historical artifacts are (Sertalp, 2017). For this reason, augmented reality
applications that host three-dimensional historical models for museums and educational environments should be
developed and their usage should be increased.
In this study, the mobile application developed in accordance with the Android platform will be useful to be
updated on all platforms. It will enable the application to be publicly available for download from the application
stores and various media. It is necessary to increase the number of warm-up exercises and models belonging to the
musculoskeletal system in the application. The development of similar applications with virtual reality technology
should be encouraged.
The number of academic publications including the development processes of three-dimensional educational
content should be increased. Courses that will improve technical knowledge and hardware for content development
and use must be organized. Augmented reality training should be given in undergraduate and graduate programs.
It is thought that using virtual objects during the competition or training will be beneficial. There are many
different implementation areas where virtual objects can be used. It should be ensured that the use of technologies
such as virtual offside line representation in football should be expanded. Depending on the type of exercise in
training augmented reality applications should be designed and used to show which muscles are working
instantaneously. This study will contribute to augmented reality studies in sport sciences education and other areas.

Funding: This study received no specific financial support.

Competing Interests: The author declares that there are no conflicts of interests regarding the publication
of this paper.

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 Asian Journal of Contemporary Education, 2020, 4(2): 91-98

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ERIC Number: EJ1280336
Asian Journal of Contemporary Education, v4 n2 p91-98 2020
Record Type: Journal
The purpose of this study is to examine the use of augmented reality technology in the field of sports science Publication Date: 2020
and to develop a sample educational software including musculoskeletal system and warm-up exercises. Each
stage of the software development process is explained in detail. The basis of augmented reality technology is Pages: 8

the simultaneous visualization of real and virtual objects through an interface system. The instant information Abstractor: As Provided
obtained by using various methods from the real world is presented in interaction with virtual objects. Virtual
ISBN: N/A
objects are developed with three-dimensional modelling software. Code libraries are used for applications that
will be created for products such as mobile phones, tablets, and computers. The compiler software makes ISSN: EISSN-2617-1252
applications available for use. In this study, Daz3d and Blender software were used for three-dimensional
EISSN: N/A
modelling. The Vuforia system has been preferred as an augmented reality code library. The Unity software
was used in the development and compilation of the application. It will be beneficial to use the developed
mobile augmented reality application in sports and health education. Augmented reality technology can be
used in many different areas in sports science.

Descriptors: Computer Simulation, Athletics, Computer Software, Human Body, Anatomy, Exercise, Health Education,
Teaching Methods, Educational Technology, Technology Uses in Education, Models, Exercise Physiology,
Telecommunications, Handheld Devices

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