Applied Sport Biomechanics

Sport Biomechanists work with high performance athletes and sporting teams to improve skills and abilities. Applied Sport Biomechanics provides an in-depth understanding of biomechanical principles in sport and the appropriate methodologies used to provide feedback to athletes. The importance of qualitative observations is explored initially with reference to providing meaningful information to coaches and athletes. The techniques for recording and analysing sporting skills are then demonstrated and starts with basic videography and biomechanical analysis using freeware available on the internet.

The use of more advanced video assessment techniques are then explored through optoelectric systems and high speed cameras. Quantitative biomechanical data collection techniques including force plates, pressure analysis, accelerometers and EMG are demonstrated with reference to improving sporting performance and injury prevention. Finally, the technological advances relevant to biomechanics are explored. Applied Sport Biomechanics promotes a working knowledge of the equipment and methods used to assess human mechanics in sport.

Key Outcomes

 * 1) Demonstrated understanding of sport biomechanics assessment techniques
 * 2) Demonstrated experience analysing various sporting skills using appropriate biomechanical methods
 * 3) Ability to conduct effective biomechanical research

Topics

 * Background to sport biomechanics
 * Conducting qualitative biomechanical assessments
 * Fundamentals of video analysis in biomechanics
 * Kinematic analysis using video and coaching tools
 * Automatic tracking systems in biomechanics
 * Force and pressure analysis
 * Accelerometers and linear encoders
 * Filtering and measurement error in biomechanics
 * Isokinetic dynamometry
 * EMG analysis
 * Computer modelling and silhouette tracking
 * Injury biomechanics including pre and rehabilitation analysis
 * Ergonomics and postural analysis
 * Future of biomechanical analysis

Resources

 * Grimshaw, P., Lees, A., Fowler, N. and Burden, A. (2007). Sport and Exercise Biomechanics. Taylor and Francis, London.

Assignments

 * Analysis of digitizing reliability
 * Qualitative analysis of a selected sport skill
 * Research report based on kinetic data
 * Examination of course material

Coordinator
Keane Wheeler