COM and stability

Question 1

Define centre of mass

Answer 1

COM is the point at which a body is balanced in all directions

Question 2

Position of centre of mass

Answer 2

Its position relies on the body mass and can be manipulated to improve performance.
Anatomical position COM is middle
Arms up COM goes higher
Bent knees COM lower
Arching back / hyper extension COM will go outside body
COM will follow pre-determined flight path

Question 3

Define stability

Answer 3

Ability of body to resist motion and remain at rest
Ability of body to withstand external forces

Question 4

Factors affecting stability

Answer 4

Mass of object - greater mass = greater inertia and stability
Height of COM - lower COM = greater stability
Base of support - wider base of support = greater stability
Line of gravity - within base of support helps maintain stability
Points of contact - more points of contact more stable you are