Centre of Mass Flashcards
Define centre of mass
- The centre of mass is the point at which the distribution of mass is equal in all directions.
- It can also be defined as the point of balance.
Why is the bodies centre of mass unique?
- The body constantly moving which means the centre of mass is also.
Important info…
- Males have a slightly higher centre of mass due to more weight in their chest and shoulders.
Factors affecting stability (A02)
All sports require good balance.
- Poor balance leads to poor technique.
E.g. in netball marking the ball on tip toes OR stepping in to take a shot.
- To counteract falling forwards an autonomous performer will out their leg back and out.
- However a cognitive learner will not put their leg back, and make more errors, causing them to become unstable.
What are the 4 factors that affect stability?
- Height of the centre if mass.
- Line of gravity position.
- Area of the support base.
- Mass of the performer.
How can we alter the height of the centre of mass, to increase stability?
- The higher the centre of mass the greater the instability.
When..
- Prior to making a tackle the performer lowers the body to become more stable.
A03: Technique (however..)
How can we alter the line of gravity position to increase stability?
- If the line of gravity is central to the body the greater the stability.
When…
Netball= arm forward + leg back to maintain stability.
A03: technique (however…)
How can we alter the area of the support base to increase stability?
- The larger the support base the more stability.
When…
- Legs shoulder width apart when shooting a netball.
A03: technique + landing.
How can we alter the mass of the performer to increase stability?
- The greater the mass of the performer the greater the stability.
When…
- Prop in rugby, large mass= large inertia and more stability.
A03: Diet/ physiological makeup.
