Center of Gravity and Movement Mechanics

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the Center of Gravity, force production, stability, and movement mechanics from the lecture notes.

Center of Gravity (COG)

The point where mass is evenly distributed, typically located anterior to the 2nd sacral vertebra.

Kinetics

The study of the forces that cause or result from motion.

Kinematics

The description of motion without regard to the forces that cause it.

Newton's 2nd Law

States that force (F) is equal to mass (m) times acceleration (a), expressed as F=ma.

Momentum

The quantity of motion an object has, reflecting the continuation of motion in a direction.

Muscle Spindle Reflex

A reflex that activates the stretch reflex during a countermovement jump, enhancing concentric force production.

GTO Reflex (Golgi Tendon Organ Reflex)

A reflex that allows agonist muscles to contract more forcefully by relaxing antagonists during movement.

Stability

The ability to resist changes in position, maintained when the COG is relative to the base of support.

Static Movements

Movements that occur at rest or in equilibrium.

Dynamic Movements

Movements that are in motion.

Qualitative Measurement

Observing and describing movements to understand them.

Quantitative Measurement

Measuring movements using numerical data to analyze performance.

Base of Support (BOS)

The area beneath an object that includes every point of contact that the object makes with the supporting surface.

Force and Acceleration

They are directly proportional; greater force results in greater acceleration.

Strength Based Movements

Movements like static jumps and heavy lifts that rely on musculoskeletal force without reflexive contributions.

Static Jump Takeoff

A movement where COG raises vertically without preparatory movement.

Countermovement Jump Takeoff

A movement that involves a preparatory rapid lowering of COG before an explosive rise.