Role of biomechanics
What is the primary role of biomechanics
Injury prevention and application of forces and motion to improve sporting performance
What are the two main types of motion in biomechanics?
linear and angular
What are the three planes of motion in biomechanics?
Sagittal, frontal and transverse
Identify the three axes of rotation.
Medial, Longitudinal, Horizontal
What are the basic phases of movement in biomechanics?
Preparation action and follow-through
How does understanding biomechanics help in enhancing athletic performance?
By analyzing movements, biomechanics helps optimize technique, increase efficiency, and maximize power output eg, example, adjusting stride or stroke mechanics
Define linear motion and provide an example.
Motion along a straight or curved path eg, a sprinter running straight down the track
How does the sagittal plane divide the body?
Left and right halves
Describe the longitudinal axis and its significance in movement.
A vertical axis running top to bottom. Movements like pirouettes or spin moves occur around it eg, dance or figure skating.
Define the preparation phase in a sporting context.
The setup stage, positioning body segments and building momentum for the main movement eg. cocking arm before throwing
How can biomechanics contribute to reducing sports injuries?
By identifying faulty movement patterns or imbalances and implementing corrective interventions before they lead to injury
What is angular motion, and how does it differ from linear motion?
Angular motion occurs when a body rotates around an axis eg, a gymnast spinning. Unlike linear motion, which moves along a path, angular involves rotation
Give a sporting example that occurs in the frontal plane.
Rugby lateral step (Shoulder abduction—lifting the arm sideways away from the body)
Side to side movements
What is the horizontal axis, and what type of movements does it facilitate?
Horizontal axis running left to right; it allows flexion and extension in the sagittal plane eg, leg extensions at the knee, moving forward and backward
What occurs during the action phase of a movement?
The main action eg, like swinging, jumping, or striking. Where force is applied to achieve the intended outcome.
What is one basic principle of injury prevention in sports?
Emphasizing proper technique to ensure safe and efficient movement patterns.
Define general motion and provide an example
General motion is a combination of linear and angular motion. All parts of a body are moving in different directions or rotating while also undergoing overall movement in a straight line or curved path. Eg, cyclist riding a bicycle. The cyclist moves forward (linear motion) while their legs rotate at the hips and knees (angular motion).
What is the transverse plane, and why is it important in sports?
The transverse plane divides the body into upper and lower sections, key for rotational movements eg. golf swings or volleyball serves
Explain how the medial axis is used in athletic movements.
side-to-side movements in the frontal plane such as arm ab/adduction
Moving side to side (laterally)
Describe the follow-through phase and its importance.
The concluding stage, where forces decelerate and the body stabilizes, vital for injury prevention and movement control.
How can video analysis assist in improving athletic technique?
It allows detailed review of movement patterns, highlighting inefficiencies or errors that coaches and athletes can address.
Describe the different types of motion in tennis
linear motion is involved in running to intercept the ball, while angular motion is critical in swinging the racket.
How do planes of motion impact exercise technique?
They help tailor movements appropriately eg, lunges in the sagittal plane versus lateral lunges in the frontal plane, ensuring correct muscle engagement and reducing injury risk.
Discuss the relationship between axes of rotation and planes of motion.
Each plane corresponds to an axis eg, movements in the sagittal plane occur around the horizontal axis. This framework helps professionals describe and analyse movement accurately
How can understanding the phases of movement enhance coaching strategies?
Coaches can break down skills into segments, providing targeted feedback and drills for each phase,improving performance and reducing injury risk.