The reliability of the Meloq EasyBase force platform for assessing jump performance and balance parameters in adolescent male basketball players

Abstract

Reliable assessment of balance and jump performance is essential for monitoring neuromuscular function, athletic performance, and injury risk in adolescent basketball players. Portable force platforms may provide practical advantages for routine clinical and field-based evaluations; however, evidence regarding the reliability of the Meloq EasyBase force platform remains limited. The aim of this study was to examine the test–retest reliability of the Meloq EasyBase force platform for assessing balance parameters and countermovement jump (CMJ) height in adolescent male basketball players. This study was designed as an intra-rater reliability study. A total of 41 male basketball players aged 12–18 years (mean age: 15.26 ± 1.58 years; mean sports experience: 5.29 ± 2.26 years) from two basketball clubs were included. Static balance was assessed during single-leg stance on both dominant and non-dominant limbs. Center of pressure (CoP) parameters, including displacement, directional sway, and ellipse area, were recorded. CMJ height was also measured. All assessments were repeated after 7–10 days. Test–retest reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimum detectable change at the 95% confidence level (MDC₉₅) and Bland–Altman analyses. Balance parameters demonstrated acceptable-to-excellent reliability (ICC = 0.71–0.90). CMJ height showed excellent reliability (ICC = 0.97, SEM = 1.32, MDC₉₅ = 3.66). Bland–Altman analyses demonstrated good agreement between repeated measurements, with most values distributed within the 95% limits of agreement and minimal systematic measurement error. These findings indicate that the Meloq EasyBase force platform provides reliable measurements of static balance and vertical jump performance in adolescent male basketball players. Given its portable structure and practical applicability, the device may serve as a useful tool for neuromuscular performance assessment in both clinical and field-based sports settings.