Introduction to Biomechanics Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the basic definitions, analytical approaches, and sub-branches of mechanics from the EXSS 385 lecture notes.

Biomechanics

The study of forces and their effects on living systems.

Qualitative Biomechanical Analysis

Non-numeric description or evaluation of movement based on observation

Abstract, descriptive, and not usually measurable. (your swing timing is off)

Quantitative Biomechanical Analysis

Numeric description or evaluation of movement based on data collected during performance

Specific and measurable. (distance covered, speed, acceleration)

Rigid-body Mechanics

A branch of mechanics that assumes objects (body or equipment) are perfectly rigid and do not bend or deform, simplifying analysis.

Deformable-body Mechanics

A branch of mechanics that studies objects that deform when loaded, which is related to training and injury.

Fluid Mechanics

A branch of mechanics that studies forces and motion in liquids and gases (water and air).

Relativistic Mechanics

A branch of mechanics based on Einstein's theory of relativity.

Quantum Mechanics

A branch of mechanics based on quantum theory.

Statics

Sub-branch of mechanics dealing with objects at rest or moving at constant velocity

• acceleration equals $0$

• no unbalanced forces or torques act on the object (equilibrium).

Dynamics

Sub-branch of mechanics dealing with objects in accelerated motion (changing velocity)

• Acceleration does not equal $0$

• unbalanced forces and torques act on the object.

Kinematics

Sub-branch of mechanics concerned with the description of motion (how far? how fast? what direction the motion occurs.

• How fast a sprinter pushes off the block

• linear kinematics & Angular kinematics

Kinetics

Sub-branch of mechanics concerned with the forces that cause motion. Why does the motion happen?

• how much force a sprinter uses to push off the blocks

• Linear kinetics & Angular kinetics

Why study biomechanics?

• Injury mechanism (ex. how forces are applied to body when running)

• Skill improvement

• Rehability prescriptions

• optimize equipment design

How can coaches, teacher, trainers use biomechanics for performance improvement?

Correct actions of an athlete, student or client to improve execution or safety of a skill or exercise

How do researchers use biomechanics to improve performance?

Discover a new, more effective or safer technique for performing a skill or exercise

How can biomechanics be used to improve equipment?

refines equipment to better match demands (swimsuits, lap skates, etc.)

How can biomechanics be used for training improvement?

analysis of strength demands in activity

to help identify the type of training required

how can biomechanics help with injury prevention and rehabilitation?

• Reduce impact forces in gymnastics (no stick landing bc it causes more force on joints)

• Reduce elbow landing in tennis

• Decreases the incidence of concussion (suggests different techniques for blocks/tackles)

• Equipment design improvements: better helmets and footwear

What types of biomechanics analyses can be performed?

Quantative & qualitative

Statistics & Dynamics

Kinematic & Kinetic

Inertial measurement units (IMUs)

Small wearable sensors that combine accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to track human movement. Non restricted

Strengths in Quantitative Analysis

• Can improve performance even in most skilled performers

• Can handle complex skills

• Can identify small elements that humans cannot sense

Weakness in Quantitative Analysis

• Usually expensive, requires equipment

• requires skilled operator

• Difficult to do ‘in the field”

• Tends to take more time