chapter one – Key Concepts

A set of Q&A flashcards covering core concepts from the notes on kinesiology, structural kinesiology, and biomechanics, including joints, movement, the c principle, and FMS.

What is kinesiology?

The study of human movement.

What does anatomic kinesiology focus on?

The musculoskeletal system and how muscles/tendons attach to bones to apply forces to the skeleton.

What is biomechanics?

Applying mechanics and physics to human movement to produce, stabilize, or absorb forces.

What is structural kinesiology?

The study of how muscles engage with movement; understanding how bones and muscles contribute to and produce movement.

What does simultaneous vs sequential refer to?

Whether movements occur at the same time or one after another.

What are hinge joints? Provide examples.

Joints designed for flexion and extension; examples include the elbow and knee.

Why are joint shapes important in movement?

The shapes at the ends of bones and how they join determine the possible movements at a joint.

What is rotation in human movement?

Movement beyond pure flexion/extension; joints can rotate, and pelvic rotation can affect limb movement.

What is the see principle?

Safe, Effective, and Efficient movement.

What is FMS?

Functional Movement Screen that identifies movement patterns that should be safe or unsafe.

What injuries can result from movements not aligned with joint design?

Muscle strains, ligament sprains, disc injuries, and fractures.

Why study planes and accessory movements?

To understand multi-planar movement and recognize unnecessary or energy-wasting motions like over-rotation.

How many muscles are in the human body and why not all are known?

Over 600 muscles; we won’t know all of them, but we learn many and use the c principle to guide study.

What is the practical goal of applying structural kinesiology in coaching?

To identify and adjust movement patterns to improve safety, efficiency, and performance.

How do muscles produce movement?

Muscles contract, cross joints, attach to bones via tendons, and generate forces that cause motion.