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Definition biomechanics: the physics of human motion. A study of the forces produced by and acting on the body. There are three terms associated with biomechanics: kinematics, kinetics, and kinesiology.

 

Biomechanics is a science that applies the mechanical principles of physics and engineering to the motion, structure, and functioning of all living systems, including plants and animals. Biomechanists in the field of physical activity, however, are principally concerned with the biomechanics of physical activity, which uses the basic mechanical principles that govern the motion of all living beings to investigate human movement and the structure and function of the human body. Although biomechanics of physical activity is closely tied to the discipline of kinesiology, the guiding principles and concepts of biomechanics come from mechanical physics, mechanical and biological engineering, and biology. The most common forces acting on a human performer include gravity, ground reaction forces, friction, and fluid resistance (air or water). An important skill for a physical activity specialist, biomechanist, or health-allied rehabilitative specialist is to be able to choose the relevant mechanical principles that apply to the movement of interest or to a phenomenon occurring inside the body. Profiles, or a set of biomechanical and other performer-related characteristics of a given group of individuals, provide information for comparisons with other groups of individuals, for example, individuals with dysfunctional movements versus those with average functional movements, skilled versus novice performers, and injured versus non injured clients. A biomechanist will use these skills to anlayse an athlete to enhance performance. An example would be to gain greater distance in a javelin throw, this could be a "simple" change of throwing technique and can be found by modelling and simulation which can then be discussed with a coach to helpachieve a better outcome for that athlete.

 

The study of biomechanics can help an athlete understand why a certain technique would be better than another. An example would be a rower trying to place more force in the hand farther from the oar lock (two hands on single oar) to shift the center of force on the oar farther from the pin to create a greater moment on the oar. Are interested in a particular sport?

Eric