Basic Terms and Concepts

Question 1

What is “biomechanics”?

Answer 1

A look at motion (human) from a perspective of functional anatomy and mechanics with application to sport and exercise.

Question 2

What is meant by “functional anatomy”?

Answer 2

The study of how NERVES command MUSCLES to pull on BONES to create movements about JOINTS.

Question 3

What is “mechanics”?

Answer 3

A branch of physics that deals with forces, objects, and the motion produced by these forces as they act upon the objects.

Question 4

What are the sub-branches of mechanics?

Answer 4

statics and dynamics

Question 5

Statics

Answer 5

bodies in a constant state of motion; includes no motion as well.

Question 6

Dynamics

Answer 6

Deals with bodies in a changing state of motion.

Question 7

What is “kinematics”?

Answer 7

A descriptive (words) look at motion. Causes of motion are discussed. Velocity, acceleration, momentum, line of movement, timing, etc. used to describe appearances of movement.

Question 8

What is “kinetics”?

Answer 8

A look at the CAUSES of movement.

Question 9

What does “anthropometric” mean?

Answer 9

Relating to size, weight, mass, length, circumference of objects or body segments. (different types of measurements)