SHN5222 - Biomechanical Analysis of Performance

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of kinematic and kinetic methods used in the biomechanical analysis of angular motion.
Explain how air and water exert forces on athletes and objects moving through them and how these forces can be modified to improve performance.
Describe the characteristics of sports surfaces and footwear and how the interaction of these can influence performance and injury.
Apply experimental protocols used in biomechanics laboratory to investigate sport and exercise techniques. Analyse and interpret biomechanical data obtained in a laboratory setting.
Evaluate the limitations of the data when using biomechanical assessment tools, and appreciate the need for reliability and validity in data collection.

Content:

Application of angular kinematics and kinetics. Factors that determine movement of athletes and sports objects in air and water examined from a biomechanical perspective. The nature of the forces that air and water can exert on athletes and sports objects and how they can affect performance. How the characteristics of sports surfaces and equipment can influence performance.
Laboratory based developing 2D motion analysis, how to analyse and interpret 2D data. Force plate data collection and analysis. Evaluate the appropriateness of different assessment tools, and assess the limitations and validity in data collection.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Lecture - 2 hours per week
Lab - 1.5 hours per week

Lecture
Contact hours: 20
Intended Group size: 40

Laboratory Practical
Contact hours: 15
Intended group size: 15

Guided Independent Study
Hours: 165

Assessment: