1.3a analysis through the use of technology

Question 1

what is limb kinematics?

Answer 1

-the study of movement in relation to time and space
eg golf swing
-3d or optical motional analysis records sporting action or body movement
-joint and limb efficiency evaluated
-computer converts data in visual format

Question 2

when are limb kinematics used

Answer 2

-to identify small changes to improve technique
-to prevent repetitive strain injuries

Question 3

positives of limb kinematics

Answer 3

data produced is immedicate, objective, accurate and used to improve technique by focussing on limb or piece of equipment

Question 4

negatives of limb kinematics

Answer 4

-accuracy & repeatability depends on correct placement of markers
-mathematical principles do not cater for individual differences
-specialised and expensive equipment
-not appropriate for some sporting actions

Question 5

what are force plates?

Answer 5

-measure ground reaction forces in lab conditions
-metal plate in ground reads electrical output proportional to forge applied and displayed graphically on computer
-assess size and direction of forces acting on athlete
-eg acceleration rates, work and power output

Question 6

when are force plates used?

Answer 6

-in gait analysis eg improve technique of marathon runner
-to analyse posture eg improve persistent back pain of rugby player
-to optimise angle of take-off eg to improve technique of a long jumper
-to adapt prosthesis eg enhance performance of a paralympic 100m sprinter
-to measure balance eg to improve performance of swimmer on starting blocks

Question 7

positives of force plates

Answer 7

-immediate, accurate and reliable results

Question 8

negatives of force plates

Answer 8

-specialist expensive equipment
-lab conditions - performers adapt their technique to suit conditions and negate purpose to improve normal technique

Question 8

negatives of force plates

Answer 8

-specialist expensive equipment
-lab conditions - performers adapt their technique to suit conditions and negate purpose to improve normal technique

Question 9

what are wind tunnels?

Answer 9

-test for aerodynamic efficiency
-object places in wind tunnel with instruments to measure forces produced by air against its surface
-flow of air around object also studied through use of smoke or dye

Question 10

why are wind tunnels used?

Answer 10

-to improve flow of air around object, streamlining path through air and increasing lift or decreasing drag.
-optimise body position of cyclist
-control external factors

Question 11

positives of wind tunnels

Answer 11

-environmental variables controlled with great accuracy in time-efficient manner

Question 12

negatives of wind tunnels

Answer 12

-specialised, expensive equipment
-require professionals to analyse complex results