350067 SLV MB1I - Elective seminar biomechanics (2012S)

Biomechanics is an important field in sports science. It aims in the description of human movement from a mechanical point of view. Physical quantities such as, e.g., pressure, velocity, force, or momenta can be exploited for the analysis of kinematics and dynamics. The in this way extracted information is expected to lead to a better understanding of the process in question and/or give hints for the future optimization of a sportive technique.

Biomechanics has a large range of applicability. Included are on one hand optimizations in ergonomics, rehabilitation, or the development of exo- and endo-prostheses. On the other hand, the objective is the world class athlete and the modelling of the sportive technique. Biomechanics may also aim in the functional design of sports equipment.

However, depending on the intended purpose, different scientific methods will be employed. In general, three main differentiations are experimental work, computer simulation and theoretical work. This lecture offers an insight into the wide range of topics in physical activity covered by biomechanical research. The aim is to make students sensitive to understand the essence of problems of (human) motion analysis and to create an idea of the methodical treatment. Deeper insight into the problems is provided by recommendations of suitable literature of leading scientists in the field.

Basic knowledge in biomechanics as well as basic ability to read English texts is regarded to be a pre-requisite.